Your US license works in Iceland, but only with an International Driving Permit

You can drive in Iceland with your US driver's license, but only if you also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). Iceland does not recognize a US license alone. The IDP is a document that translates your license information into multiple languages and confirms to Icelandic police that your US license is valid. Without it, you cannot legally drive, even if your US license is current.

An IDP is not a separate license or a replacement for your US license. It is a companion document that must be presented alongside your actual US driver's license. You cannot get an IDP in Iceland — you must obtain it in the United States before you travel.

Key Takeaways

  • You must carry both your US driver's license and an International Driving Permit to drive legally in Iceland; neither document alone is sufficient.
  • The American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Express Travel Services are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs in the United States.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and takes one to two weeks to arrive by mail, or you can obtain one in person at a AAA office the same day.
  • Your IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue, so you must check the expiration date before traveling if you obtained yours more than a year ago.
  • Iceland requires you to be at least 17 years old to drive and to have held your US license for at least one year; some car rental companies impose higher age minimums.

How to get an International Driving Permit before your trip

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the fastest and most accessible source for an IDP. If you are a AAA member, you can visit any AAA office in person with your US driver's license, a completed IDP process form, and a passport-sized photo. You will receive your IDP the same day. If you are not a member, you can still obtain an IDP at a AAA office, but you may pay a slightly higher fee. The cost is typically $15 to $20.

If you do not have a AAA office nearby or prefer to order by mail, you can explore through AAA's website or by phone. Mail orders take one to two weeks. You will need to submit a completed process form, a copy of your US driver's license, a passport-sized photo, and payment. Send these materials to the AAA address provided on the process.

American Express Travel Services is the second authorized issuer. American Express cardholders can request an IDP through their travel services department. The process and timeline are similar to AAA's mail option, and the cost is comparable.

Do not attempt to obtain an IDP from any other source. Only AAA and American Express are authorized by the US State Department to issue IDPs, and Icelandic authorities will not accept documents from other organizations.

What information the IDP contains and why Iceland requires it

An International Driving Permit translates the key information from your US driver's license into ten languages, including Icelandic. It includes your name, date of birth, license number, the date your US license was issued, and the date it expires. It also lists the vehicle categories you are authorized to drive — for example, passenger cars, motorcycles, or heavy trucks.

Iceland requires the IDP because it provides a standardized, multilingual format that local police can quickly verify. When a police officer stops you, they can read your information without needing to interpret an unfamiliar US license format or contact your home state. The IDP also serves as proof that your US license was valid at the time you obtained the permit, which protects you if your US license expires while you are in Iceland.

Age and licensing requirements Iceland enforces

Iceland requires you to be at least 17 years old to drive. You must also have held a valid driver's license for at least one year before you arrive. This means a US license issued less than one year ago will not meet Iceland's requirements, even if it is legal in your home state.

If you are between 17 and 19 years old, some car rental companies in Iceland impose additional restrictions. They may require you to be 20 or 21, charge a young driver fee, or limit the types of vehicles you can rent. Check with your rental company before you book.

Your US license must be valid on the date you drive in Iceland. An expired license is not acceptable, even with an IDP. If your license expires during your trip, you cannot legally drive after the expiration date.

What happens if you drive without an IDP

Driving in Iceland without an IDP is a traffic violation. If police stop you, they can fine you on the spot. The fine amount varies, but it is typically several thousand Icelandic króna (roughly $20 to $50 USD, though exchange rates and penalty amounts change). You may also be prohibited from continuing to drive until you produce the required documents.

If you are involved in an accident and do not have an IDP, your car rental insurance may be voided, leaving you personally liable for all damage. This is a significant financial risk. Rental companies in Iceland routinely check for an IDP during the rental process and may refuse to rent to you if you cannot produce one.

Driving rules and documents you will need in Iceland beyond your license

In addition to your US driver's license and IDP, Iceland requires you to carry several other documents while driving. You must have your car rental agreement, proof of insurance, and your passport. Keep these documents in the vehicle at all times.

Iceland has specific traffic rules that differ from US standards. Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day. Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour, not miles per hour. The national speed limit on highways is 90 km/h (about 56 mph), and in towns it is typically 50 km/h (about 31 mph). Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal and heavily penalized.

Road conditions in Iceland can be severe, especially in winter. Many roads are unpaved, and weather can change rapidly. Some roads are closed seasonally. Check road conditions before you drive and rent a vehicle appropriate for the terrain.

How long your IDP is valid and what to do if it expires

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date of issue. If you obtained your IDP more than a year ago and are planning to drive in Iceland again, you must obtain a new one before you travel. Icelandic authorities will not accept an expired IDP, even if your US license is still valid.

Check the expiration date on your IDP before you leave for Iceland. If it has expired, contact AAA or American Express to order a replacement. If you are leaving soon and do not have time for a mail order, visit a AAA office in person to obtain a new IDP the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Iceland with just my US driver's license and no IDP?

No. Iceland law requires both documents. Police will fine you if you cannot produce an IDP, and your rental car insurance may be voided. You must obtain an IDP in the United States before you travel.

What if I arrive in Iceland and realize I forgot my IDP?

You cannot legally drive. You cannot obtain an IDP in Iceland. Your options are to not drive, to use taxis or tour buses, or to return home to obtain an IDP and come back. Contact your car rental company when ready to cancel your reservation and ask about cancellation fees.

Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car for one day?

Yes. The requirement applies regardless of how long you drive. The rental company will ask for your IDP when you pick up the car, and you must have it.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International Driver's License?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document issued by AAA or American Express. An International Driver's License is a different document issued by some countries and is not recognized in Iceland. Make sure you obtain an IDP, not an International Driver's License.

What if my US driver's license expires while I am in Iceland?

You cannot legally drive after your license expires, even if your IDP is still valid. Plan your trip so that your license does not expire while you are there, or do not drive during the period after your license expires.