The IDP, or International Driving Permit, is an international driver’s license that contains all the information from your driver’s license, but translated into 8 languages so you can drive abroad with peace of mind. The languages are:
English | Spanish | Portuguese | Chinese | Arabic | Russian | German | French
With the IDP, you have the right to drive in over 100 countries, and it is important to note that the requirement to present it may vary from place to place. In some destinations, such as Europe and Asia, having this document is mandatory.
Am I required to have an IDP in foreign countries?
Many countries do not recognize driver’s licenses from other countries but do officially recognize an IDP. Some countries may accept your home country’s driver’s license but require a translation into the local language (for example, Spain). The IDP can meet these kinds of requirements. However, keep in mind that even if a country's government does not require an IDP, car rental companies in that country may require it to rent a car.
Can I get an IDP if I only have a temporary license?
Although a temporary license is valid for driving, you must wait until you receive your permanent license before renting a vehicle. Foreign authorities and rental companies will not accept a temporary license. Check this and other requirements for renting a vehicle in our article on the topic.
Where can I get an IDP?
The International Driving Permit (IDP) is issued by traffic authorities or authorized institutions in the driver’s country of residence. The responsible agency may vary depending on the country.
How long is an IDP valid?
If you request an IDP under the 1949 convention, it will be valid for up to one year from the date of issue. IDPs under the 1968 model are valid for up to 3 years. However, the validity of the IDP cannot exceed the validity of your national driver's license. Also, some countries only accept the IDP of foreign visitors for a few weeks – usually only as long as their tourist visas are valid.
Why is the IDP internationally recognized?
Driving in a foreign country has been regulated since 1926 by the United Nations through four international conventions, signed by most countries in the world. Currently, two conventions cover 98% of the world's countries: the 1949 Geneva Convention and the 1968 Vienna Convention, and nearly all IDPs are issued according to the regulations of these two conventions. The authority to issue the IDP lies with countries that are contracting parties to one or more of the UN Conventions on Road Traffic.
Key facts about international driver’s permits:
They are not a stand-alone document and do not replace a valid driver’s license. You must carry your national license along with your IDP at all times.
The IDP can only be issued to drivers who hold a valid national license (not a foreign license).
The IDP can only be issued to individuals aged 18 and older.
The IDP cannot be issued to individuals holding a learner’s permit.
An IDP is a useful form of identification, even if you don’t intend to drive when traveling abroad.
The IDP allows you to carry your identification data in multiple languages (English, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, Italian, German, Arabic, and French, among others) in case you need to communicate with foreign authorities.
Important:
Don’t forget to carry your physical driver’s license (CNH). The IDP is a supplement but does not replace the importance of always having your original license on hand;
To issue the IDP, you must follow the procedures established by the traffic authorities or authorized institutions in the driver’s country of residence.