Which Countries Require an International Driving Permit? [Full List by Region]
If you’re planning to drive overseas, you might need more than just your local driver’s license. Many countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car or drive legally. Not having one could result in fines, denied rentals, or worse—being unable to drive at all.
To help you plan ahead, we’ve created a complete list of countries that require (or strongly recommend) an IDP, sorted by region.
What Is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
An International Driving Permit is a document that translates your existing driver’s license into multiple languages. It’s not a replacement for your license but must be carried with it when driving abroad.
Not sure how it works? Learn what an IDP is and why you need one
Why Do Some Countries Require an IDP?
Some countries have legal or administrative systems that don’t recognize foreign licenses without an official translation. Others require an IDP based on international conventions (like the 1949 or 1968 treaty). In many cases, rental agencies will not let you rent a car without it—even if it’s not legally required.
Important: IDP rules vary by country, and some countries only accept certain versions (1949 or 1968). Always check local laws before driving.
Countries That Require or Strongly Recommend an IDP
Here’s a breakdown of countries where an IDP is required, strongly recommended, or useful for car rental purposes.
Europe
| Country | IDP Required? |
|---|---|
| Italy | Yes (officially required) |
| Spain | Strongly recommended |
| France | Recommended (for non-EU licenses) |
| Germany | Not required (EU license OK) |
| Greece | Yes (for non-EU drivers) |
| Portugal | Recommended |
| United Kingdom | Yes (for non-EU) |
| Switzerland | Yes (non-EU) |
Driving in Europe soon? Read how to apply for an IDP online
Asia
| Country | IDP Required? |
|---|---|
| Japan | Yes (strictly enforced) |
| Thailand | Yes (highly enforced) |
| South Korea | Yes |
| China | Not accepted – local license needed |
| Indonesia | Recommended |
| Vietnam | Local license needed (IDP not accepted) |
| Malaysia | Recommended |
| India | Yes (for foreign nationals) |
North America
| Country | IDP Required? |
|---|---|
| United States | Required in some states (especially with non-Roman script licenses) |
| Canada | Recommended |
| Mexico | Recommended |
| Costa Rica | Yes |
| Dominican Republic | Yes |
Driving in the U.S.? Here’s what you need to know about using an IDP in the USA
South America
| Country | IDP Required? |
|---|---|
| Brazil | Yes |
| Argentina | Yes |
| Chile | Yes |
| Colombia | Recommended |
| Peru | Yes |
Africa
| Country | IDP Required? |
|---|---|
| South Africa | Yes |
| Kenya | Yes |
| Morocco | Recommended |
| Egypt | Yes |
| Tanzania | Yes |
Oceania
| Country | IDP Required? |
|---|---|
| Australia | Yes (for non-English licenses) |
| New Zealand | Yes |
| Fiji | Yes |
Countries That Do NOT Accept an IDP
A few countries do not recognize IDPs at all. These include:
-
Mainland China
-
North Korea
-
Vietnam (IDP not valid; local license required)
In these cases, you must apply for a local driving permit or use alternative transportation.
Tips Before You Drive Abroad
-
Always carry your original driver’s license + IDP
-
Print a physical copy of your IDP if traveling somewhere remote
-
Check for 1968 vs. 1949 convention requirements (some countries only accept one version)
How to Get Your IDP Quickly
If you need an IDP fast and prefer a digital solution, we offer fast and reliable IDP translations accepted by many car rental agencies worldwide.
- Digital delivery in under 24 hours
- Secure, simple application
- Trusted by travelers in 150+ countries
Start your IDP translation now
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is an IDP mandatory in every country?
No. Some countries require it, others only recommend it. But in all cases, having one adds an extra layer of security when driving abroad.
Q: What happens if I drive without an IDP?
You could face fines, vehicle impoundment, or denial of rental cars. Here’s what to expect if you get pulled over without one
Final Thoughts
Knowing which countries require an International Driving Permit is crucial before getting behind the wheel abroad. Whether you’re traveling through Japan, Italy, or Brazil—an IDP can save you time, money, and legal headaches.
Don’t take the risk. Apply online and get your IDP translation delivered fast.
Get your IDP translation today