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Can I obtain an International Driving Permit in Gibraltar?

If you have a Gibraltar driving licence, you can obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) from the Drivers and Vehicle Licensing Department at the post office in Gibraltar. Tourist drivers can also apply for an IDP online or from their own country in Gibraltar. The type of IDP you receive depends on the country you are visiting.

For example, Liechtenstein requires an IDP from 1926, while Spain, Andorra, Cyprus, Malta, Ireland, and Iceland require an IDP from 1949. Italy, France, Croatia, Monaco, Switzerland, Norway, and all other EU countries require an IDP from 1968.

Is a British driving licence valid in Gibraltar?

After the Brexit transition period, there have been some changes to the driving licence regulations. A driving licence from the United Kingdom remains valid in Gibraltar, but it may be advisable to also apply for an International Driving Permit/license. Drivers from EEA member states do not need an International Driving Permit to drive in Gibraltar.

Can I apply for an International Driving Permit online?

Yes, it is possible to apply for an International Driving Permit online. Simply fill out the online application form, upload your passport photo, submit a digital copy of your driving licence, and pay the required fees.

Top Destinations in Gibraltar

Why is the Rock of Gibraltar central to this article? Because the structure, economy, and culture of the entire country revolve around this rock, including all the beautiful sites to visit! Before your trip to the country, make sure you have your International Driving Permit in order in Gibraltar and choose which of the destinations below you want to explore first!

The Alameda

The Alameda, now known as the Gibraltar Botanic Gardens, was originally created as a convalescent home for soldiers to promote their well-being. This picturesque 80,000 m2 garden is well-maintained and features paved paths and sections serving specific purposes, such as the open-air theatre. The Gibraltar Botanic Gardens are located approximately 10 minutes from the airport. If you have a green thumb, you can even volunteer to help care for the plants!

The Alameda is located along Red Sands Road. The quickest route from the airport to the gardens is via Queensway Road and takes only about 10 minutes or less. The park is open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Europa Point

Europa Point marks the southernmost point of Gibraltar. There are various unique locations within the point, with the Trinity Lighthouse being the most prominent. If you are interested in stories of ships passing through the Strait of Gibraltar since the 19th century, this is a place you must visit, along with the Sikorski Memorial.

Europa Point is located along Levanter Way, a small side road off Europa Advance Road. If you drive directly from the airport, it is about a 13-minute drive to the area via Sir Herbert Miles Road. You can visit Europa Point at any time between 9:00 am and 8:45 pm.

Cable Car and Top of the Rock Café

Dine atop the Rock of Gibraltar! There are two ways to reach the highest point of the rock: by foot via the Mediterranean Steps or by cable car, which takes you up within 6 minutes. Once at the top, you can enjoy a meal with breathtaking views of the surrounding waters of Gibraltar and even Africa in the distance!

The cable car operates daily between 9:30 am and 5:15 pm, and you can purchase a ticket on-site. The base station is located along Red Sands Road, and the quickest route to the area is via Queensway Road. The station is only about 3.3 km from the airport, and in favorable traffic conditions, the drive takes no more than 10 minutes.

The Moorish Castle

The Moorish Castle has been around since the 15th century, and there are even suspicions of an earlier castle from the 8th century. During your visit to the castle, you can wander through the various passages, rooms, baths, and terraces and catch a glimpse of medieval life.

To reach the Moorish Castle, follow the access road just after Flat Bastion Road. The castle is about 4.6 km from Gibraltar Airport, and via the quickest route, it takes no more than 13 minutes to get there. The castle is open daily for visitors from 9:30 am to 6:15 pm.

Catalan Bay

A trip to the Mediterranean is not complete without beaches! Catalan Bay is the second-largest beach in Gibraltar, located on the east coast overlooking the Alboran Sea in the western Mediterranean. The beach offers soft, gray sand and is ideal for relaxation and engaging in various beach/water sports.

Catalan Bay can be reached via Catalan Bay Road from Sir Herbert Miles Road. The beach is just a 6-minute drive from the airport, and the quickest route is via Devil’s Tower Road. Exercise caution while driving, as Devil’s Tower Road is known for speeding vehicles.

The Great Siege Tunnels

The history of Gibraltar has seen numerous wars and sieges due to the strategic position of the Rock of Gibraltar. From the 14th to the 18th century, Gibraltar endured 14 major sieges. The last successful siege was in the Great Siege Tunnels, where the tunnels were extended to 113 meters during World War II. You can visit the full length of the tunnels and admire original cannons, batteries, and other artillery used during the sieges.

The entrance to the Great Siege Tunnels is accessible via Willis’s Road. The tunnels are open daily from 9:00 am to 6:15 pm, and guided tours are available. The entrance is about 5.3 km from Gibraltar Airport, and it takes no more than 20 minutes to get there.

The Gibraltar Skywalk

The Gibraltar Skywalk offers a 360-degree view 340 meters above the Mediterranean Sea. The structure consists of steel and glass panels forming the floor of the exterior walkway. If you don’t have a fear of heights, the Skywalk will make you feel like you are floating in the air with a sheer drop below your feet.

The Gibraltar Skywalk is open from 9:00 am to 6:15 pm. If you plan to visit the Skywalk midday, it is recommended to bring an umbrella as there is little shade due to the glass surface. You can find the Gibraltar Skywalk along St. Michael Road, and the quickest route to it is via Queensway Road.

Windsor Suspension Bridge

For adventurers, the Windsor Suspension Bridge might be the most exciting adventure in Gibraltar. You walk 50 meters above a gorge and must cross the 71-meter-long bridge without a safety harness. With all the natural sways, the adrenaline is sure to kick in!

Check the weather conditions before heading to the Windsor Suspension Bridge, as it is situated between cliffs and the wind can pick up. Nevertheless, the bridge is open daily from 9:00 am to 6:15 pm. The entrance to the site is along Old Queen’s Road, and the drive from the airport to the Windsor Suspension Bridge takes no longer than 20 minutes.

St. Michael’s Cave

St. Michael’s Cave is a sparkling cavern that any cave enthusiast must visit. You do not need specialized speleological knowledge, as the chambers are easily accessible. One of the chambers has even been transformed into an underground arena accommodating 400 people!

St. Michael’s Cave is located near the beginning of St. Michael’s Road, about 6.1 km from Gibraltar Airport. The drive to the cave takes no more than 15 minutes, and the cave is open daily from 9:30 am to 6:15 pm. Visiting early in the day is advisable due to the many rooms to explore!

Siege Tunnels Square

Siege Tunnels Square Mall is located at the northern end of Main Street, along Line Wall Road at the roundabout. Siege Tunnels Square is the hub for urban entertainment in Gibraltar, featuring the best restaurants and various entertainment opportunities. The mall is just a 5-minute drive from the airport, and some establishments are open late into the evening.

Key Traffic Rules in Gibraltar

The best way to navigate through Gibraltar is by adhering to the applicable traffic rules with your own vehicle. Driving on the picturesque coastal roads of Gibraltar requires compliance with traffic regulations. Besides ensuring a valid International Driving Permit according to local laws, there are other important aspects of traffic rules in Gibraltar that you should be aware of:

Driving under 18 years is not allowed

You must be at least 18 years old to qualify for a full driving licence in Gibraltar. However, individuals aged 17 can already apply for a provisional driving licence to legally practice driving. Persons with only a provisional driving licence must be supervised by an adult with a valid driving licence. Before driving, your vehicle must first be inspected by the vehicle licensing authority.

This rule also applies to tourists. Despite having a valid driving licence from your own country, you are not allowed to drive in Gibraltar. Since obtaining an International Driving Permit is also not allowed, it is advisable to respect the existing rules.

Always drive within the speed limit

It is essential to drive within the established speed limits in Gibraltar due to the varied terrain structure. Although the roads are well-asphalted, they contain many bends and steep inclines. For your safety, you should be extra cautious on winding roads with elevation changes.

Gibraltar is a small area where you can travel quickly, so a universal maximum speed generally applies. If there are no speed signs, you should maintain a speed of 30 mph – 80 mph.

Avoid alcohol and driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs reduces your reaction time and is a significant cause of traffic accidents worldwide. This also applies to Gibraltar; therefore, strict maximum alcohol levels are enforced:

• Breath alcohol level – 35 micrograms per 100 ml of breath
• Blood alcohol concentration – 80 milligrams per 100 ml of blood 9 hours earlier