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International Driving Permit Italy

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Car rental in Tuscany
Usage Period: 1, 2 or 3 year
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Drive Amalfi Coast roads
Usable in 180+ countries
Translated into 12 languages

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Accepted in 180+ countries
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Why travel with an International Driving Permit in Italy?

Italy’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural history make it a dream destination for road travelers. From the Dolomites to the Amalfi Coast, many of the country’s top attractions are best reached by car. Traveling with an International Driving Permit (IDP) helps visitors move confidently through Italy’s diverse regions, especially where English isn’t commonly spoken.

An IDP can simplify interactions at roadside checks or when dealing with local authorities. It also supports smoother transactions when renting a vehicle, as many Italian rental agencies request it—particularly if your domestic license is not in Italian or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Whether you’re driving through Tuscan vineyards or navigating coastal switchbacks, having your IDP adds a layer of convenience to your journey.

For travelers looking to make the most of their road trip in Italy, carrying an IDP is a smart and travel-friendly decision.

What is an International Driving Permit?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a translated version of your national driver’s license, designed to help you drive more easily in foreign countries. Our document is a non-governmental translation of your license, available in 12 major world languages and accepted in over 180 countries. It includes your name, photo, and driving details, making it easier for local authorities to understand your credentials.

While it does not replace a government-issued IDP, it can help reduce language barriers and simplify interactions with rental agencies or traffic officials during your travels. Travel with confidence, knowing your driver information is clearly presented, without the hassle of local bureaucracy.

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In 3 Steps Your International Driving Permit

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. Done!

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

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What to see & do with your IDP in Italy?

Italy is a country made for road trips. With an International Driving Permit in hand, travelers can explore beyond the typical tourist hubs and enjoy the country at their own pace. From historic towns to mountain routes and stunning coastlines, here are some unforgettable drives to consider:

1. The Amalfi Coast Drive (SS163):
This iconic coastal road is famous for its dramatic cliffs, winding turns, and postcard-worthy views of the Mediterranean. With your IDP, you can rent a compact car and take in towns like Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi—stopping for fresh seafood and scenic overlooks along the way.

2. Tuscany’s Wine Country:
Base yourself in Florence or Siena and explore the Chianti region’s rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and medieval villages. An IDP helps simplify rural car rentals and enhances your ability to explore lesser-known towns like Pienza or Montefioralle, where public transit options are limited.

3. The Dolomites and Great Dolomite Road:
This northern route takes you through mountain passes, alpine meadows, and breathtaking vistas. Perfect for those craving fresh air and adventure, it’s a route where flexibility matters—and an IDP helps streamline everything from car hire to language interpretation during traffic stops.

4. Lake District (Lago di Como and Maggiore):
Driving around Italy’s northern lakes lets you discover charming lakeside villages, local trattorias, and elegant villas. An IDP comes in handy for spontaneous rentals or detours into Switzerland.

5. Sicily’s Coastal Circle:
From Palermo to Catania via the southern coast, Sicily offers a vibrant road experience full of ancient ruins, seaside views, and volcanic landscapes. Having an IDP supports easier navigation across regional rental offices and language barriers in more remote areas.

Italy’s well-connected highways and diverse geography reward those who explore by car. With your International Driving Permit, every region becomes more accessible and enjoyable.

Time to travel around Italy

Driving through Italy not only unlocks its many regions but also offers a gateway to neighboring countries. With an International Driving Permit, travelers can cross borders smoothly, rent cars with confidence, and enjoy stress-free driving in the broader European region. Whether you’re craving Alpine adventures, Adriatic beaches, or historic cities beyond Italy, a flexible road trip is within reach.

Your IDP helps ensure comfort, clarity, and continuity wherever your journey leads.

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Everything You Need to Know About International Driving Permits for Italy

Whether you’re planning a countryside road trip or just need a rental to explore Italy’s smaller towns, having an International Driving Permit (IDP) can make your experience much smoother.

For visitors from the United States, Canada, Australia, and other non-EU countries, an IDP is strongly recommended and often requested by car rental agencies—especially if your license is not in Italian. UK travelers can usually drive with their domestic license, but having an IDP adds peace of mind when passing through checkpoints or renting in rural areas. EU citizens can drive freely with their original licenses.

Italian police occasionally set up roadside checks, especially in tourist zones or near toll points. While these are usually routine, presenting an IDP alongside your domestic license can help avoid delays or confusion—particularly if your license is in a language unfamiliar to local officers.

Driving habits and road culture: Italian drivers are generally assertive, particularly in cities. Speeding and tailgating are not uncommon, and it’s important to remain alert, especially on roundabouts and narrow village roads.

Key laws and penalties to know:

Speed limits: 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on secondary roads, 130 km/h on highways
Tolls: Most major highways (Autostrade) have tolls—carry cash or use a card
ZTL zones: Restricted traffic zones in city centers—avoid fines by checking signs
Seat belts: Mandatory for all passengers
Alcohol limit: 0.05% BAC; stricter for new drivers (0.00%)
Phone use: Only hands-free devices allowed
Headlights: Use dipped headlights on highways and rural roads

For up-to-date road rules, consult the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport or local police authority.

Want more detailed information before your trip? Be sure to check out our complete Italy Driving Guide here

Frequently Asked Questions

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not legally required for all visitors in Italy, but it is strongly recommended depending on your country of origin and the language of your license. Travelers from the European Union can generally drive using their existing licenses without issue. However, if you’re visiting from the United States, Canada, Australia, or any country outside the EU, many rental car agencies in Italy may ask for an IDP—especially if your domestic license is not written in Italian or uses a non-Roman alphabet.

While police checkpoints are usually routine, having an IDP can help avoid confusion or delays if you’re stopped. It serves as a translation of your home license, making it easier for Italian authorities to understand your driving credentials. You can apply directly through our website if you plan to drive in Italy during your trip.

Yes, most travelers can rent a car in Italy with a valid foreign driver’s license, but there are some conditions to be aware of. Many rental agencies require that your license be accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP), especially if your original license is not in Italian or is printed in a non-Latin alphabet.

Some companies may refuse service without an IDP, even if your license is valid in your home country. This is particularly common in smaller towns or regional offices. The minimum age for renting a car in Italy is typically 21, although some companies may apply additional fees for drivers under 25.

To avoid complications at the rental counter, it’s a good idea to obtain an IDP in advance. Our platform offers a fast and secure way to get your IDP, with digital delivery available for added convenience.

An International Driving Permit can be used throughout Italy in both urban and rural regions. Whether you’re navigating busy cities like Rome and Milan or exploring the countryside of Tuscany or Sicily, an IDP helps make your driving experience smoother—particularly if your license is not in Italian.

It’s especially useful when passing through areas with police checkpoints or when renting vehicles in smaller towns, where English may not be widely spoken. Car rental agencies across Italy, including at airports and train stations, often expect non-EU travelers to present an IDP along with their domestic license.

With an IDP, you’ll have added flexibility to explore Italy’s scenic coastal routes, mountain passes, and hidden villages. You can find more information and apply for your IDP directly at internationaltravelpermits.com.

Tourists driving in Italy should be familiar with key local rules and common driving practices to avoid fines and stay safe. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on secondary roads, and up to 130 km/h on highways (Autostrade). Most highways require toll payments, which can be made by card or cash.

Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and the use of mobile phones is only allowed with a hands-free system. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, and even lower (0.00%) for drivers with less than three years of experience.

Many cities enforce ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) areas that restrict vehicle access—violating these can result in fines. Roundabouts and narrow village roads are common, and drivers should remain alert, especially in high-traffic zones.

While Italy’s road network is well-maintained, understanding these rules can make your journey more comfortable. An International Driving Permit supports smoother interactions with authorities and rental providers throughout the country.