International Driving Permit  Moldova

If you’re traveling to Moldova and planning to drive, whether you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) depends on the country where your license was issued. Drivers from EU member states can generally use their domestic license without restrictions. However, visitors from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and others are strongly encouraged to carry an IDP alongside their national license. This is especially helpful since many Moldovan authorities and rental agencies may not be familiar with licenses in languages other than Romanian or Russian.

While an IDP is not explicitly required by Moldovan law for all visitors, it significantly improves your experience during traffic stops and rental car pickups. Some rental companies may even make it a condition for booking a vehicle. Carrying an IDP also reduces potential delays or confusion in case of roadside checks.

You can apply directly through our website for a fast, secure digital and physical IDP option.

Yes, tourists can rent a car in Moldova with a valid foreign driver’s license. However, most rental agencies recommend — and some require — that you also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP), especially if your license is not printed in the Latin alphabet or is issued outside the EU. This includes licenses from countries such as the U.S., U.K., Australia, and Canada.

An IDP serves as a translated version of your home license, making it easier for rental staff to process your booking and for local authorities to verify your credentials if needed. Without one, travelers may face delays, be denied rental access, or encounter issues during police checks.

To ensure a smooth car rental process, it’s best to bring both your original license and an IDP.

Yes, carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP) is especially useful when driving into regions like Transnistria or rural parts of Moldova. Transnistria is a breakaway territory with its own border checkpoints and internal control systems. While it is technically within Moldova’s borders, it operates separately, and visitors often face additional document checks.

In areas like these, where road signage may be in Cyrillic and local authorities may not speak English, an IDP can help minimize misunderstandings and streamline inspections. Having an IDP alongside your original license shows that you’re prepared and can assist in avoiding unnecessary complications during your journey.

Even when traveling within Moldova’s official territory, rural regions may have less exposure to foreign license formats. In such cases, presenting an IDP can make interactions with traffic police or local officials smoother.

Driving in Moldova requires awareness of local road rules and enforcement practices. Speed limits are strictly enforced: 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on rural roads, and up to 110 km/h on expressways. Moldova has a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol — the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.0%. Violations can lead to immediate fines or license suspension.

Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers, and using a mobile phone while driving is only allowed with a hands-free system. Headlights must be used during the day when outside urban areas, and winter tires are compulsory from December to February.

Police checkpoints are common, especially near borders or in rural areas. Drivers should always carry their passport, original driver’s license, vehicle documents, and an IDP if applicable.

Moldovan drivers can be assertive, and road quality varies, so extra caution is recommended, particularly on narrow or poorly maintained roads.

Bringing an IDP along with your national license can make driving across Moldova more straightforward.