Understanding International Driving Permits
By Anna Jones,
10th November 2025, 5 min read
When choosing to hire a car you get to explore a country with flexibility. You’re able to take detours, discover lesser-known spots and set your own pace. However, before you collect your rental car keys, there’s a crucial piece of documentation you may need: an International Driving Permit (IDP).
This guide breaks down what an IDP is, how to get one, and where you need one.
What Is An International Driving Permit?
An International Driving Permit is not a second license - it acts as an officially recognised translation of your UK driving licence. It helps local authorities, car hire companies and insurance providers quickly confirm you're legally allowed to drive.
It’s worth noting that you must carry both your UK licence and your IDP when driving abroad - one does not replace the other.
Types of IDPs Explained
There are different versions of the IDP that are based on international conventions agreed upon by various countries. The version you need will depend on your destination.
- 1926 IDP - This is valid for one year and only required in Mexico and Somalia.
- 1949 IDP - This one is also valid for one year and is recognised by countries like the United States, Canada, and New Zealand.
- 1968 IDP - This is accepted in most parts of the world and is valid up to three years.
These are based on international conventions signed in different years. If you’re crossing borders on your trip, you might even need more than one type. Confirm this with the DVLA or local issuing office before you travel.
How to Apply for an IDP
Although you might expect to apply online, IDPs are only issued in person through participating PayPoint locations across the UK. There are around 28,000 outlets and you'll find them in local newsagents and other similar shops.
When you apply for an IDP you'll need to bring the following:
- UK photocard driving licence, or a paper licence with a valid passport.
- Recent passport-style photo.
- Money to pay the £5.50 fee - cash or card.
Once you have the right documents, you can usually receive your IDP immediately. If you’re planning in advance, you can request a delayed issue date of up to three months but be aware that it can’t be backdated.
You must apply for an IDP before you travel as IDPs cannot be issued once you're abroad.
Why Does an IDP Matter
Holding an IDP confirms you have a valid UK driving licence and are authorised to drive particular vehicle categories. More importantly, many countries make it a legal requirement for tourists renting or operating vehicles.
Without one, you could face fines or legal penalites, denial of car rental, and complications with insurance coverage.
What If You Don’t Have an IDP?
Driving without a required IDP can cause more than just inconvenience. Depending on local laws, you might face on-the-spot fines, vehicle impoundment, or even a mandatory court appearance.
Additionally, if you’re involved in an accident abroad without one, your insurance claim could be complicated or even refused. For something that takes ten minutes to obtain, it’s simply not worth the risk - just in the same way it's not worth risking driving abroad without car hire excess insurance.
Where Is An IDP Required?
UK drivers need an IDP to legally drive in over 140 countries outside the EU, including popular destinations such as:
- United States
- Australia
- Japan
- Turkey
- Mexico
- United Arab Emirates
- New Zealand
You don’t need an IDP to drive within the EU, Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Norway, unless you hold a paper licence or one issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man.
If you’re travelling between multiple regions, make sure to check the requirements before you arrive as the rules can vary by destination.
Final Thoughts
It helps you stay compliant with local regulations, streamlines rental car pick-up, and offers reassurance that your licence will be understood wherever your journey takes you.
Before you go, double-check the latest requirements for your destination and consider taking out an excess insurance policy for hire cars. This will give you extra peace of mind. With the right paperwork and preparation, you’re driving experience abroad will be smooth and stress-free.