Planning to drive abroad from the UK? Depending on your destination, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your UK driving licence. Many UK drivers are unaware of this requirement until they arrive at a car hire desk or are stopped by local police — which can ruin a trip. This guide answers every question about the International Driving Permit in the UK: what it is, where you need one, how to get it, and what it costs.
What Is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
An International Driving Permit is an official document that translates your UK driving licence into 12 languages, allowing authorities in other countries to verify your driving entitlement without a language barrier. It’s issued in accordance with the United Nations 1949 and 1968 Vienna Conventions on Road Traffic, and is valid in over 150 countries worldwide.
Importantly, an IDP is not a replacement for your UK driving licence — it must always be carried alongside it. On its own, an IDP is not a valid driving document.
Do UK Drivers Need an IDP After Brexit?
Yes — following Brexit, UK licence holders now need an IDP to drive in most EU and EEA countries. Prior to Brexit, a UK licence was sufficient across the EU. Since 1 January 2021, UK drivers visiting EU member states require an IDP in addition to their UK photocard driving licence.
Which Countries Require an IDP?
The following regions require a valid IDP alongside your UK driving licence:
EU and EEA Countries (1968 Convention IDP)
All EU member states, including France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Greece, Portugal, and the Netherlands. Also EEA countries such as Norway and Iceland. Note: Some EU countries at land border crossings may not check, but car hire companies almost always require an IDP for UK licence holders.
Other Popular Destinations Requiring an IDP
- USA: Required in some states; strongly recommended for car hire nationwide
- Australia: Required alongside a UK licence
- Japan: Required — Japan uses its own version of the convention
- South Africa: IDP required alongside a valid licence
- Turkey: IDP required
- UAE (Dubai etc.): IDP required for tourists hiring cars
- Thailand: IDP required by law
Which Type of IDP Do You Need?
There are two main types of IDP issued in the UK, based on which international convention applies in your destination:
- 1949 Convention IDP: Valid in countries that signed the 1949 Geneva Convention — includes USA, Canada, and some others. Valid for 1 year.
- 1968 Convention IDP: Valid in countries that signed the 1968 Vienna Convention — this includes most EU member states, as well as many African and Asian nations. Valid for 3 years or until your UK licence expires (whichever comes first).
You can hold both types simultaneously if needed — for example, if you’re visiting both the USA and EU in the same trip.
How to Get an International Driving Permit in the UK
In the UK, IDPs are issued by the Post Office — the only official issuing authority. You cannot get one online or through the DVLA directly.
What You Need to Apply at the Post Office
- Your valid UK photocard driving licence (both parts if you still have the paper counterpart)
- Your valid UK passport
- One passport-sized photo
- The application form (available at the Post Office branch)
- Payment of £5.50 per IDP (each type is purchased separately)
IDPs are issued on the spot at the Post Office — you don’t need to wait. Most large Post Office branches stock them, but it’s wise to call ahead to confirm availability.
IDP for Driving in Ireland
Good news — UK licence holders do not need an IDP to drive in Ireland (Republic of Ireland). The Common Travel Area agreement means your UK licence is fully recognised there. This is one of the few post-Brexit exceptions that benefits UK drivers travelling within the British Isles.
Do You Need an IDP to Hire a Car Abroad?
Even if local law doesn’t strictly require an IDP, most major car hire companies now require one from UK licence holders at European locations. Without it, you may be refused a vehicle even if you’ve already paid your rental. Always carry an IDP when hiring abroad to avoid this situation.
Driving Licence Services for Travellers
Before travelling abroad, make sure your UK driving licence is up to date, shows your current address, and isn’t close to expiry. If you need to renew, replace a lost licence, or obtain any other driving documentation before a trip, our team can help expedite the process.
→ Explore all Fast Driving Licence services for UK drivers
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is an IDP valid?
The 1949 Convention IDP is valid for 1 year. The 1968 Convention IDP is valid for 3 years or until the expiry of your UK driving licence, whichever comes first.
Can I get an IDP if my licence has penalty points?
Yes — as long as your UK driving licence is valid and not suspended or revoked, you can obtain an IDP regardless of penalty points.
Is an IDP needed for Northern Ireland drivers?
Northern Ireland driving licences are issued by the DVA (Driver and Vehicle Agency) and are recognised as UK licences. NI licence holders follow the same IDP rules as Great Britain licence holders when travelling to EU and other countries.
Last updated: May 2026. IDP requirements may change — always check with the relevant country’s embassy or motoring authority before travelling.