IDP vs Driving Licence: What's the Difference?
They are two different documents that work together. Here is what each one does, when you need both, and which countries require an IDP.
One of the most common questions travellers have is whether an International Driving Permit replaces their driving licence, or if they need both. The short answer: you always need both. Here is why, and what each document does.
Visual Comparison: IDP vs Driving Licence
| Feature | Driving Licence | International Driving Permit |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Official government-issued document granting permission to drive | Translation document that supplements your licence for international use |
| Issued by | Your home country or state government | Authorised organisations under the Geneva/Vienna Conventions |
| Languages | Typically your home country language only | Translated into 12 languages |
| Valid on its own? | Yes, in your home country | No — must always be carried with your original licence |
| Where accepted | Your home country + some reciprocal agreements | 150+ countries worldwide |
| Validity | Varies (typically 5–10 years) | 1 year or 3 years depending on plan |
| Vehicle categories | Specific categories you are licensed for | Mirrors the categories on your original licence |
| Purpose | Proves you have passed driving tests and are qualified to drive | Translates your credentials so foreign authorities can read them |
| How to get it | Pass driving test + theory, apply through government | Apply online in 5 minutes through Permio |
When You Need Both
In any country that requires an IDP, you are legally obligated to carry both your original national driving licence and your IDP. The IDP serves as a certified translation — it tells foreign police officers and rental agencies what your licence says, in a language they can read.
Think of it this way: your driving licence proves you are qualified to drive. Your IDP proves that a foreign official can verify that qualification, even if they do not read the language your licence is printed in.
The Golden Rule
Always carry both your original driving licence AND your IDP when driving abroad. An IDP without your licence is invalid. A licence without an IDP may not be accepted in countries that require one.
Countries: Licence Only vs IDP Required
Requirements vary by country. Some destinations accept a foreign driving licence on its own, while others legally mandate an IDP. Use our Country Checker for specific details, or browse the full country database.
Licence May Be Sufficient
- 🇬🇧 United Kingdom (for EU/EEA holders)
- 🇺🇸 United States (varies by state)
- 🇨🇦 Canada (most provinces)
- 🇦🇺 Australia (for English-language licences)
- 🇳🇿 New Zealand (up to 12 months)
- 🇮🇪 Ireland (for EU/EEA holders)
Note: Even where not legally required, rental companies may still request an IDP.
IDP Required or Strongly Recommended
- 🇯🇵 Japan (strictly enforced)
- 🇹🇭 Thailand (required by law)
- 🇦🇪 UAE / Dubai (required)
- 🇮🇹 Italy (for non-EU drivers)
- 🇬🇷 Greece (for non-EU drivers)
- 🇧🇷 Brazil (required)
- 🇮🇩 Indonesia / Bali (required)
- 🇲🇦 Morocco (required)
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