International driving permits: What you need to know

An International Driving Permit (IDP) lets you drive in over 140 countries, including the USA.

It doesn't replace your UK driving licence - you'll need to carry both when driving abroad. There's 3 types of IDPs, and if you're visiting multiple countries, you might need more than one.

Here's what you need to know before you set off!

When do I need an international driving permit?

You'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) when driving in certain countries. There's 3 types of IDPs, depending on which international agreement the country follows:

• 1926 IDP
• 1949 IDP
• 1960 IDP

Here's a quick look at popular holiday destinations and whether you'll need an IDP:

Where you'll need an IDP

• Turkey - requires a 1949 IDP.
• USA - certain states require a 1949 IDP. If you have a paper licence, bring another form of photo ID, like your passport. You may also need to show your IDP to your insurance company if you're involved in an accident.
• United Arab Emirates (UAE) - requires a 1968 IDP.

Where you won't need an IDP

You don't need an IDP when driving in these countries, as long as you're staying within the permitted period:

• Greece
• France
• Italy
• Spain  (if staying for less than 6 months)
• Portugal  (if staying for less than 6 months)
• Ireland (if staying for less than 12 months)
• Germany  (if staying for less than 6 months, but a 1968 IDP is required if you have a paper licence or a licence from the Isle of Man)

For a full list of IDP requirements by country, visit GOV.UK.

And, just remember—an IDP isn't meant to replace your driving licence or car insurance policy. You'll still need to make sure your car insurance covers you to drive abroad!

What our motor insurance expert says

"Before you drive abroad, check your car insurance policy documents to make sure you have cover for driving abroad. Many insurers offer up to 30 days' third-party cover to drive in Europe, and you can usually upgrade this at an extra cost.

"If you're driving outside the EU, you may also need a green card as proof of insurance. Check the Foreign, Commonwealth Development Office before you travel."

Louise Thomas Motor insurance expert

When might I not need an international driving permit?

In some countries, an IDP isn't a must-have. But if you're hiring a car, most rental companies will ask for it. So, it's usually worth getting just in case.

If you have a UK photocard driving licence, you don't need an IDP to drive in:

• The EU
• Switzerland
• Norway
• Iceland
• Liechtenstein

Many of these countries allow you to drive without an IDP for a set period—usually up to 6 months. But it's always smart to check the latest rules before you go!

How do I apply for an international driving permit?

Need an IDP? Currently, it's not possible to apply online. But getting your permit is easy enough, you'll just need to visit your local Post Office!

Once you get there, you'll need to:

• Be at least 18 years old. Head's up - some countries insist that you must be over 21 to hire a car. So, if you're under 21 and want to drive, check this ahead of time.
• Be a UK resident. You'll probably be asked to prove this.
• Have a valid, full UK driving licence. Provisional driving licences aren't accepted.

Don't forget to bring:

• Your full driving licence
• A passport-sized photo that you’ve signed on the back
• If you have a paper licence, your passport as a form of ID

Currently, the IDP costs £5.50.

How long does an international driving permit last?

That all depends on what IDP you get.

Let's break it down:

• 1926 IDPs - good for 1 year
• 1949 IDPs - also valid for 1 year
• 1968 IDPs - these last the longest at 3 years!

What happens if I drive without an international driving permit?

Different countries have different rules, but if you're caught without a valid IDP, you could:

• Get fined
• Have your car confiscated
• If it's a rental, the hire company might charge you to get it back

Making sure you have the IDP you need can save you from a lot of headaches down the road!