The Amalfi Coast is 50 kilometers of the most dramatic coastal road in the world. Cliffs drop hundreds of meters into turquoise water. Villages cling to mountainsides. And the road is barely wide enough for two cars to pass. It is extraordinary, terrifying, and absolutely worth it. But only if you have the right paperwork.
IDP Requirements in Italy
Italy requires an International Driving Permit for all non-EU drivers. This is strictly enforced by the Carabinieri, the Italian military police who handle traffic enforcement. Getting stopped without an IDP results in a fine starting at 400 euros, and your rental car insurance may be voided.
Italy accepts the 1968 Vienna Convention IDP. When renting a car, you must present your IDP alongside your domestic license at the counter. Every major rental company in Italy (Hertz, Europcar, Maggiore) will ask for it.
All non-EU license holders must carry a valid IDP when driving in Italy. The fine for driving without one starts at 400 euros. Italy accepts the 1968 Vienna Convention format.
The Amalfi Coast Route
Sorrento to Positano (16 km). The opening stretch is already spectacular. Tight hairpin turns with views over the Gulf of Salerno. Drive slowly and use your horn at blind corners, as locals do.
Positano to Amalfi (18 km). This is the iconic section. The road is carved into cliffs with tunnels, tight squeezes past buses, and pull-off viewpoints that are worth every stop.
Amalfi to Ravello. The detour up to Ravello takes you above the coast for panoramic views. The road is steep and narrow, but the gardens and vistas at the top are unforgettable.
Driving Tips for the Amalfi Coast
Rent a small car. A Fiat 500 or similar compact is ideal. Anything larger than a mid-size sedan will struggle with the narrow passages and tight parking.
Start early. The road gets clogged with tour buses from 10 AM onward. Starting your drive at 7 or 8 AM means emptier roads and better photo stops without crowds.
Use mirrors at blind corners. Many of the tightest corners have convex mirrors mounted on poles. Use them. Oncoming traffic appears without warning otherwise.
Parking in Positano and Amalfi town is extremely limited and expensive. Consider parking at Sorrento (more available, cheaper) and using the SITA bus for the coastal towns, then driving the route separately for the views.
ZTL Zones: The Trap for Tourists
Italian cities have ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato) restricted zones. Cameras photograph every car entering, and fines are mailed to the rental company months later. Amalfi town has a ZTL. Positano has restricted access periods. Your GPS will not warn you. Watch for ZTL signs (white circle with red border) and do not enter.
1. IDP (1968 Vienna Convention). 2. Small rental car. 3. Early morning departure. 4. ZTL zone awareness. 5. Horn at blind corners. 6. Offline maps downloaded. 7. Cash for parking meters.
The Amalfi Coast drive is on every road trip bucket list for good reason. An IDP and a small car are all you need to experience it properly.