If you’re planning a road trip overseas or renting a car during your travels, chances are you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
It’s not a replacement for your local license but a translation that helps foreign authorities understand your driving credentials. Here’s everything you need to know before applying.
What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
An International Driving Permit is a translation of your local driving license into multiple languages. It makes it easier for foreign authorities and car rental companies to understand your license.
Remember, the IDP is not a replacement for your original license but you must carry both together.
Why Do You Need an IDP?
Car rental requirement
If you plan to rent a car overseas, many international car rental companies will insist on seeing a valid International Driving Permit along with your original license. Without it, you may be denied a booking even if you already paid online.
Countries like Italy, Japan, and Australia are especially strict, and even global rental chains such as Hertz, Avis, or Europcar often ask for the IDP at pickup. Having it ensures a smooth rental process without last-minute surprises at the counter.
Avoid fines and legal issues
In some countries, driving without an IDP is considered illegal, even if your local license is valid. Police checks are common in places like Indonesia, Korea, and the UAE.
If you can’t present an IDP when asked, you could face hefty fines, and in serious cases, your car could be impounded. Paying a small fee for the IDP is much cheaper and far less stressful than dealing with unexpected penalties abroad.
Language translation advantage
The IDP translates your driving license details into 10+ languages, including English, French, Spanish, Arabic, and Chinese.
This helps foreign police, car rental staff, or border officers easily understand your license without confusion. Imagine being stopped in a rural town in Spain or Thailand where the officer doesn’t read English, your IDP removes the language barrier instantly.
Peace of mind while traveling
Having an IDP gives you the confidence to drive legally wherever your journey takes you. You won’t have to worry about rental rejections, language misunderstandings, or traffic stops turning into complicated situations.
It’s a simple, affordable document that lets you focus on enjoying your trip whether you’re cruising along the highways of New Zealand, exploring Japan’s countryside, or road-tripping across the USA.
Do I Need an International Driving Permit?
Country / Region | IDP Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
New Zealand | Recommended | Not always mandatory, but required if your license isn’t in English. |
USA | Sometimes | Some states accept foreign licenses, but many rental companies require an IDP. |
Australia | Strongly advised | Most car rental companies won’t release a vehicle without it. |
Korea & Japan | Compulsory | You cannot legally drive without an IDP issued under the Geneva Convention. |
Indonesia | Required | Police checks are frequent; IDP is compulsory. |
Philippines | Required (if license not in English) | English licenses may be accepted, but IDP avoids issues. |
Thailand | Required (if license not in English) | Strongly advised, especially for rentals and police checks. |
India | Required (for foreigners) | Local licenses not in English must be accompanied by IDP. |
Where to Get an IDP
Only authorized motoring associations can issue an IDP in your country. For example:
- Singapore – Automobile Association of Singapore (AAS)
- Malaysia – Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ)
- USA – American Automobile Association (AAA) or AATA
- UK – Post Office
How to Apply for an International Driving Permit in Singapore
If you’re from Singapore, you can apply for International Driving Permit Singapore through the Automobile Association of Singapore (AAS):
Steps 1: Apply online or at AAS branches
Steps 2: Provide your NRIC/FIN, valid driving license, and passport photo
Steps 3: Pay SGD $20 (cash, NETS, or card) and processing is usually same-day at brances, 10 days on online
Validity of an IDP
1-year validity
An International Driving Permit is typically valid for one year from the date of issue. Some countries may issue it for up to three years, but one year is the global standard.
Renewable
If you plan more overseas trips in the future, you can renew your IDP after it expires by reapplying through the authorized agency in your country.
Must carry with your local license
The IDP is not a standalone license. It is only valid when presented together with your original driver’s license. If you forget your local license, the IDP alone will not be accepted.
Check country-specific rules
Some countries may only accept IDPs issued under the Geneva Convention (1949), while others follow the Vienna Convention (1968). Always confirm before traveling.
Countries That Require an IDP
Country | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Japan | Compulsory | Must be issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. |
South Korea | Compulsory | Required for all foreign drivers; local licenses not accepted. |
Italy | Compulsory | Rental companies and police checks will not accept foreign licenses alone. |
Spain | Compulsory | Especially important if your license isn’t in Spanish or English. |
UAE | Compulsory | Strictly required for tourists renting cars or driving. |
Tips for Driving Abroad with an IDP
Conclusion
Whether you’re driving across the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Korea, Indonesia, or Thailand, having an International Driving Permit makes your journey smoother. The cost is small, the process is easy, and it gives you peace of mind.
So if you’re wondering “Do I need an International Driving Permit?”, the safe answer is: Yes, get one before your trip.
FAQ: International Driving Permit
Can I drive overseas with only my local license?
In some countries, yes, but most require an IDP for legal driving and car rentals.Can I apply for an IDP abroad?
No, you must apply in the country where your license was issued.Is an IDP valid in all countries?
No, it depends on international agreements. Always check the country’s requirements before you go.Does an IDP replace my driving license?
No, it’s only valid when presented together with your original license.