An International Driving Permit (IDP) isn't a separate license — it's an official translation of your national license into several languages, issued in a standardized format. It's recognized by countries that are parties to the 1949 Geneva Convention or the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.
When an IDP Is Required
In most countries outside the European Union — such as the US, UAE, Thailand, Japan, and India — local police and rental companies rely on the standardized document because it's easier to verify than a national license in an unfamiliar language. Without an IDP, you may be refused a car rental or have the legality of your driving challenged during a document check.
When a National License Is Enough
If you're a citizen of an EU country traveling to another EU country, your national license is usually enough — regional agreements recognize it directly. A similar situation applies under bilateral agreements between individual countries.
How to Know If You Need an IDP
- Check whether your destination country is a party to the 1949 Geneva or 1968 Vienna Convention
- Confirm the requirements with the rental company if you plan to rent a car
- Keep in mind the IDP's validity period — it cannot exceed that of your national license
- Carry both documents with you: your national license and IDP are only valid together