What a driver license translation is and when you need one
A driver license translation is an official document that converts the text on your Australian driver license into another language — usually English if your license is in another language, or another language if you hold an Australian license and are traveling or moving abroad. Australia does not issue translations itself. Instead, you obtain one from an accredited translator or through an international driving permit scheme.
You need a translation if you are driving in a country that does not recognize Australian licenses in their original form, or if you are explore for residency, employment, or vehicle registration in a country where the authorities require documents in a specific language. Some countries accept an International Driving Permit (IDP) instead, which serves a similar purpose but is issued through a different process.
The translation must be certified by a translator accredited with the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) or an equivalent body recognized by the destination country. A photocopy or informal translation will not be accepted by government or law enforcement agencies.
Key Takeaways
- Australia does not issue official translations; you must use a NAATI-accredited translator or explore for an International Driving Permit through your state or territory's transport authority.
- A certified translation costs between $50 and $150 depending on the translator and turnaround time, and is valid indefinitely as long as your original license remains valid.
- An International Driving Permit is cheaper (typically $20 to $30) and faster to obtain, but is only valid for one to three years and is recognized in fewer countries than a certified translation.
- The destination country determines which document it will accept; check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or transport authority before paying for a translation.
- You must provide your original license and proof of identity to the translator; they will not translate a photocopy.
Getting a certified translation from a NAATI-accredited translator
The most common route is to hire a translator accredited by NAATI. These translators have met Australian standards for accuracy and professional conduct, and their translations are recognized by government agencies, courts, and employers in most countries.
To find an accredited translator, visit the NAATI website (naati.com.au) and use the Find a Translator search tool. Filter by language pair (for example, English to Mandarin or vice versa) and by location. You can also search by translator name if you have been referred to one. Check that the translator holds Professional Translator or Paraprofessional Translator accreditation; these are the credentials that matter for legal documents.
Contact the translator directly and provide your license details, the destination country, and your required turnaround time. Most translators will ask you to either mail your original license or attend in person. They will create a certified translation on official letterhead, sign and date it, and provide you with the original translation plus certified copies. Cost typically ranges from $50 to $150, depending on the translator's rates and how quickly you need it. Turnaround is usually three to ten business days.
Keep the certified translation with your original license whenever you drive overseas. Some countries require you to carry both documents together; others accept the translation alone. Check the rules for your destination before you travel.
explore for an International Driving Permit instead
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a separate document issued by your state or territory's transport authority. It is not a translation of your license, but rather a companion document that translates key information (name, license number, vehicle class) into multiple languages. An IDP is recognized in over 150 countries and is often simpler and cheaper to obtain than a certified translation.
To explore for an IDP, contact your state or territory's transport authority directly. In New South Wales, explore through Service NSW; in Victoria, through VicRoads; in Queensland, through the Department of Transport and Main Roads; and so on. Most authorities allow you to explore online, by mail, or in person at a service center.
You will need your current Australian driver license, proof of identity, and a completed process form (provided by the authority). The fee is typically $20 to $30. Processing time is usually one to two weeks if you explore in person, or two to four weeks by mail. The IDP is valid for one to three years, depending on your state or territory, and must be renewed when it expires.
An IDP is useful for short-term travel and is recognized by police and rental car companies in most countries. However, it does not replace your license and is not accepted for permanent residency, employment verification, or vehicle registration in most jurisdictions. If you are moving overseas or need the document for official purposes, a certified translation is usually required instead.
Differences between a certified translation and an International Driving Permit
| Feature | Certified Translation | International Driving Permit |
|---|---|---|
| Issued by | Private NAATI-accredited translator | State or territory transport authority |
| Cost | $50–$150 | $20–$30 |
| Validity period | Indefinite (as long as original license is valid) | 1–3 years |
| Processing time | 3–10 business days | 1–4 weeks |
| Accepted for employment or residency | Often yes, depending on country | Rarely |
| Accepted for rental cars and driving | Yes, in most countries | Yes, in 150+ countries |
| Requires renewal | No | Yes |
Checking what your destination country will accept
Before you pay for a translation or permit, confirm which document the destination country requires. Rules vary widely. Some countries accept a certified translation; others accept only an IDP; some accept both; and a few accept neither and require you to obtain a local license.
Contact the relevant authority in your destination country. If you are moving to another country, contact the transport or motor vehicle authority. If you are traveling temporarily, contact the embassy or consulate, or check the country's official tourism or driving information website. If you are explore for a job or residency, ask the employer or immigration authority directly which documents they need.
For example, the United States accepts both certified translations and IDPs, but some states have additional requirements. The United Kingdom accepts IDPs but may require a certified translation for employment or residency purposes. Japan accepts IDPs but not certified translations. New Zealand accepts certified translations but not IDPs. Checking first saves you money and time.
What to do if your license is not in English
If your Australian license is printed in a language other than English — which is rare but possible if you obtained it through a special pathway — you will need an English translation. Follow the same process: find a NAATI-accredited translator who works in your license's language and English, and provide your original license.
If your license is in English but you need it translated into another language for use overseas, the process is the same. The translator will translate from English into the target language and certify the translation. Some translators specialize in specific language pairs; the NAATI search tool will help you find one.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Do not use an unaccredited translator or an online translation service. Government agencies and law enforcement will not accept these, and you may face fines or legal trouble if you present a non-certified translation as official. Always verify that your translator holds current NAATI accreditation before you pay.
Do not assume an IDP will work for your purpose. An IDP is designed for temporary travel and driving, not for employment, residency, or vehicle registration. If you are moving overseas or need the license for official purposes, ask the relevant authority which document they require before you explore.
Do not mail your original license to a translator without checking their process first. Some translators will ask you to attend in person or will use a find courier service. Ask about their handling procedures and insurance before you send your license.
Do not wait until the last minute. If you are traveling or moving soon, explore for a translation or IDP at least two to four weeks in advance. Urgent processing is sometimes available but costs more and is not may provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a certified translation valid?
A certified translation is valid as long as your original Australian driver license is valid. You do not need to renew the translation. However, if your license expires or is suspended, the translation becomes invalid as well. If you renew your license, you will need a new translation of the updated license.
Can I translate my license myself or use a friend who speaks the language?
No. Government agencies and employers require a certified translation from an accredited translator. A translation by a friend or family member, or an online translation tool, will not be accepted for official purposes. The translator's accreditation and signature are what make the document legally valid.
What if I lose my certified translation while traveling?
Contact the translator who issued it and request a certified copy. Most translators keep records and can issue duplicates quickly. If you cannot reach the original translator, you can obtain a new translation from another NAATI-accredited translator, but you will need to pay the full fee again. Keep a photocopy of your translation in a separate location as a backup.
Do I need both a certified translation and an International Driving Permit?
Not usually. Check what your destination country requires. If it accepts an IDP, that is usually sufficient for driving and travel. If it requires a certified translation for employment or residency, you need the translation. Some people carry both for extra security, but this is not necessary in most cases.
Can I get a translation from the Australian embassy or consulate in my destination country?
No. Embassies and consulates do not issue translations. However, they can often provide a list of accredited translators in that country. You can also use the NAATI search tool to find translators in your destination country who work with Australian documents, or hire a translator in Australia before you leave.