Which countries require an International Drivers Permit? [closed]

This question discusses driving in a specific country (Austria), but it raised a point I did not realize: some countries require an International Drivers Permit (IDP) to drive. I was always under the impression that it was optional if your license was in English or another widely-spoken European language. In other words, your issuing country determines if you need one, rather than your travel destination.

I looked at the dmv.org web site, but I couldn't find a list of countries that require this. They recommend getting one for driving in any foreign country (but that's not surprising, considering that's their business...)

Is there a list somewhere of countries that require an IDP for some drivers?

driving-licenses

Best Answer

The Automobile Association(AA) in the UK publishes a list of countries where a UK licence holder requires an International Driving Permit.

I believe motoring organisations publish similar lists for their own countries but presumably because of the complexities involved in the requirement or non-requirement of an IDP between various specific countries there doesn't seem to be a definitive list for all drivers and all countries.

To further complicate matters different states of the USA have different requirements regarding IDPs.

People who drive in the U.S. must have a valid driver's license. Some states require an International Driving Permit (IDP) from foreign nationals, in addition to a valid license from your own country. Contact the motor vehicle department of each state you will drive in for its requirements.

Wikipedia shows the countries which recognise IDPs which of course is not the same as requirement.

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What countries require an international driving permit?

International Driving Permits are Required* in the following countries for US Licensed Drivers: Austria, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, and Spain. *IDP enforcement may vary based upon car rental supplier as well as renting country.

Do I need an international driving permit for Spain in 2021?

Spain requires foreign drivers who have a license in English to obtain an IDP prior to arriving in Spain. This driving permit is a requirement to drive in Spain, and without the permit, you could face punishment if stopped by law enforcement officials while driving.

Do I need an international driving permit for France after Brexit?

You will need an IDP to drive in France after Brexit if you have: a paper driving licence - green or pink version. a licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man.

Do I need an international driving permit for Spain in 2022?

You should ask your car-hire company to remove this misleading message, because the only reason you would need an IDP in Spain is if you have a paper driving licence, a licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man, or are planning to stay more than six months.

International Drivers Permit: 2021 Guide

Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

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