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International Driving Permit Argentina

What is an International Driving Permit?

An international driving permit is an official translation of your driver’s license. The international drivers permit can be used in 180 countries around the world. The document contains your name, photo and driver information in the 12 most spoken languages in the world. This ensures that local officials and authorities can understand your information making sure that you can travel stress free and without any complications.

Your International Driving Permit in 3 Steps

How do you obtain an International Driving Permit?

1. Sign up online

Begin your application for a translation of your driver's license.

2. Upload a photo

Make sure to upload a recent photo and follow the guidelines.

3. Wait for confirmation

Wait for your confirmation, and you're ready to travel!

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Why you need to travel with an international driving permit Argentina ?

Argentina is vast, dramatic, and bursting with unforgettable landscapes—from the glaciers of Patagonia to the vineyards of Mendoza. Driving is one of the best ways to take it all in. But navigating a new country means different road rules and language barriers. That’s where an international driving permit (IDP) comes in.

An IDP acts as an official translation of your home country’s license and is widely accepted throughout Argentina. Whether you’re cruising down scenic highways or renting a car in Buenos Aires, your IDP ensures you’re driving legally and confidently—no stress, no hassle.

What countries require an international driving permit?

While Argentina often accepts foreign licenses for short stays, an international driving permit is highly recommended—especially if your license is not in Spanish. It helps avoid confusion with rental agencies and authorities, particularly in rural areas or at checkpoints.

To be sure you're fully covered, it’s best to check the latest requirements with the Dirección Nacional de los Registros Nacionales de la Propiedad del Automotor (DNRPA) or your car rental provider.

How to get an international driving permit?

Applying is fast and easy online:

Complete the application form with your personal details.
Upload a photo of yourself and your valid driver’s license.
Submit the form and wait for confirmation. Your IDP will be delivered digitally or by mail, depending on the option you choose.

How much does an international driving permit cost?

At International Travel Permits, we offer a variety of options to suit your needs. Choose between digital-only or digital + printed versions of the IDP.

You can also select the validity period—1, 2, or 3 years—depending on your travel plans. Frequent travelers often go for the three-year option. Visit our pricing page for all the details.

Where to get an international driving permit?

You can apply directly online with International Travel Permits. There’s no need to visit an office—everything is handled online, quickly and securely. You’ll be road-trip-ready in no time. You just have to apply and we will deliver your IDP to your digital or physical mailbox!

What to see and do with your international driving permit in Argentina?

Argentina is a land of extremes and wide-open spaces, making it the perfect country for a self-drive adventure. With your IDP in hand, here are five iconic highlights you don’t want to miss:

Buenos Aires
Start your journey in the country’s buzzing capital. Full of European flair, tango music, and vibrant neighborhoods like Palermo and San Telmo, Buenos Aires is an exciting urban experience. From here, you can easily rent a car and head off in any direction—north to vineyards, south to glaciers, or west to the mountains.

Mendoza Wine Region
Argentina is known for its Malbec, and Mendoza is where it all begins. Drive through sun-drenched vineyards with the Andes as your backdrop, and enjoy tastings at world-class wineries. With your IDP, you’ll have the flexibility to explore the wine route at your own pace (just be sure to designate a driver if you’re sampling!).

Patagonia (El Calafate & El Chaltén)
Patagonia feels like another planet—glaciers, windswept plains, and jagged peaks as far as the eye can see. Drive from El Calafate to El Chaltén to see the Perito Moreno Glacier and Mount Fitz Roy. The scenic roads are wide open and stunning, perfect for adventurous travelers.

Iguazú Falls
Located at the border with Brazil and Paraguay, Iguazú Falls is one of the world’s largest and most spectacular waterfall systems. Driving there gives you the chance to stop at small towns and explore the surrounding national parks. There are plenty of places to park and explore on foot once you arrive.

Salta & the Northwest
For dramatic desert landscapes, colorful rock formations, and indigenous culture, head to Salta and its surrounding region. The drive from Salta to Cafayate or through the Quebrada de Humahuaca offers winding mountain roads and unforgettable views. It’s one of Argentina’s most underrated road trip routes.

From the pampas to the peaks, Argentina is a land made for exploring. With your international driving permit, you’re free to follow your own road, on your own terms—with peace of mind every mile of the way.

Planning to see more than just Argentina?

Argentina is a fantastic gateway to the rest of South America, and with an international driving permit, cross-border travel becomes much easier. Here are six nearby destinations worth considering:

Chile Uruguay Paraguay

Bolivia Brazil Peru

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my local driver’s license valid in Argentina?

Foreign citizens who have a driver’s license from their home country are allowed to drive in Argentina. However, there are certain criteria they must meet to be eligible. Before applying for an international driver’s permit (IDP) or an IDP, first check if you qualify for an exemption. Below are guidelines for specific criteria to avoid obtaining a special permit:

Holders of a driver’s license with the English alphabet
Licenses issued by EU countries, the EEA, Australia, England, South Africa, Switzerland, and the United States
Countries that are parties to the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic

If you do not meet any of the above conditions, it is necessary to obtain an international driver’s permit. You can apply for this online through this website.

Can I drive in Argentina with a U.S. driver’s license?

U.S. residents with a valid U.S. driver’s license may use it to drive in Argentina. They are among the group of countries whose residents can drive freely in the South American country without purchasing an international driver’s permit (IDP).

Can I drive in Argentina with a British driver’s license?

Citizens with a British driver’s license must obtain an international driver’s permit to drive in Argentina. You can submit an application and find more information about international driver’s permits on our website.

Is an International Driver’s Permit required to drive in cities and districts of Argentina?

It is mandatory to possess an international driver’s permit (IDP) when planning to drive abroad, including in Argentina. However, there are exemptions for residents of EU countries, the EEA, Australia, Switzerland, Germany, Brazil, Canada, Cyprus, Ireland, Italy, Moldova, New Zealand, Malaysia, Romania, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Uruguay, the United States, South Africa, and countries participating in the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. Residents of these countries may no longer need an international driver’s permit, but it is still recommended to obtain one, especially when traveling abroad.

Does an international driver’s permit replace my local driver’s license?

No, an international driver’s permit is simply an official translation of your original driver’s license and cannot replace it.

Am I allowed to rent a car and drive from Argentina to Chile?

Yes, but you need a special permit to take your rental car across the border. The cost for this is around $105.

Key Traffic Rules

When renting a vehicle in Argentina, it is essential to adhere to local traffic rules. It is important to follow regulations, respect traffic safety rules, and adapt to road conditions. Compliance with Argentine traffic rules is crucial as law enforcement has become stricter. During your trip, you may encounter random checkpoints and border controls. It is highly recommended for tourists to follow these rules to avoid issues.

Do not drive under the influence of alcohol

Attention is crucial while driving. Driving under the influence of alcohol can lead to serious traffic accidents. It is one of the main causes of traffic injuries. Drivers caught driving under the influence may face high fines and severe penalties. Therefore, it is important to drive sober. Always make sure you have a driver’s license and an IDP. Ensure that the emergency number is available in case of need.

Ensure proper use of seat belts

It is mandatory for all vehicle occupants to wear seat belts. Always check if the seat belt is properly fastened. Complying with this rule is essential to prevent serious injury and loss. When driving in Argentina, it is important to obey the law. Note that failure to comply with the seat belt rule may result in the revocation of your updated international driver’s permit.

Use car seats or booster seats for children

Children under the age of ten must be transported in a car seat appropriate for their height. Inquire with car rental companies if they can provide vehicles with special child seats. It is important not to take risks by letting your child sit on the regular passenger seat.

Maintain the speed limit

The traffic signs in Argentina are clear and understandable. Private vehicle drivers must adhere to the standard speed limits according to road type. Within urban areas, the speed limit is 60 km/h and on side roads 40 km/h. On highways and outside the capital, the speed limit is 100 to 120 km/h. Ensure that your international driver’s permit or driver’s license is up-to-date before continuing your journey. Argentine authorities will check this during inspections.

Use of portable electronic devices is prohibited

Minimize distractions while driving and avoid using mobile phones. Distracted driving can be dangerous for you and your passengers. If necessary, use a hands-free system to operate your phone. Also, make sure you have an IDP when driving in Argentina. Foreign drivers need to purchase an international driver’s permit. For easy application, visit the International Travel Permits website. There is a template available to fill out, including your home address, postal code, and payment details.

Keep right to drive

To have a pleasant driving experience in Argentina, always keep right while driving. The left lane is meant for passing. Respect other road users and avoid reckless driving behavior.

Use of low beam headlights

All drivers, regardless of nationality, must use low beams at all times on the highways of Argentina. This also applies to main roads. Violation of this traffic rule can result in high fines.