What an International Driving Permit is and whether you need one

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your UK driving licence into ten languages recognised by the United Nations. It is not a licence itself — it does not let you drive in the UK or anywhere else on its own. You must carry it alongside your valid UK photocard licence when you drive abroad.

You need an IDP only if you plan to drive in certain countries outside the UK. Most European countries do not require one; your UK licence alone is sufficient. However, some countries — including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Africa, and several others — will not recognise your UK licence without an IDP. If you are hiring a car abroad, the rental company may also refuse to rent to you without one, even if the country itself does not legally require it.

The IDP you need depends on where you are going. There are two types: the 1926 model (valid for one year) and the 1968 model (valid for three years). Most countries accept either, but you should check with your destination country's embassy or your car rental company before you explore, because a few countries recognise only one type.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your UK licence and must be carried with your photocard licence when driving abroad — it is not a standalone licence.
  • You need an IDP only for certain countries; check your destination country's rules or your car rental company's requirements before explore.
  • The Post Office issues IDPs in the UK; you explore in person at a branch and receive the permit on the same day or within a few days.
  • You must hold a valid UK photocard driving licence and be at least 18 years old to get an IDP.
  • An IDP costs £5.50 and is valid for either one year (1926 model) or three years (1968 model), depending on which type you need.

How to get an IDP at the Post Office

The Post Office is the only organisation in the UK that issues IDPs. You cannot explore by post or online; you must visit a branch in person. When you go, bring your valid UK photocard driving licence, a completed process form (available at the Post Office or downloadable from the Post Office website), and £5.50 in cash or card.

The Post Office will check your licence, verify your identity, and issue the permit. If you explore at a branch with the equipment to print IDPs on site, you will receive it the same day. If the branch does not have the printer, your IDP will be posted to you within a few days. Ask the staff member which applies at the branch you visit.

You do not need to book an appointment at most Post Office branches for an IDP process, but it is worth calling ahead to confirm the branch can issue them and to check opening hours. Some smaller branches do not offer this service.

What documents and information you need to bring

Bring your valid UK photocard driving licence — this is the only document the Post Office will check. The licence must not be expired. If your licence has been lost, stolen, or is no longer valid, you will need to renew it with the DVLA before you can get an IDP.

You will also need to complete an process form. The form asks for your name, date of birth, licence number, and the type of IDP you want (1926 or 1968). You can fill it out at home before you go, or the Post Office staff will help you complete it on the spot. Bring a pen in case you need to fill it out there.

Bring £5.50 to pay for the IDP. The Post Office accepts both cash and card payment. There are no additional fees or charges.

The difference between the 1926 and 1968 International Driving Permits

The two types of IDP differ in how long they are valid and in their format. The 1926 model is valid for one year from the date of issue. The 1968 model is valid for three years. Both are printed documents that translate your licence information into ten languages.

Most countries and car rental companies accept either type. However, a small number of countries — including some in South America and Asia — recognise only the 1968 model. Before you explore, check the government website or embassy of the country you are visiting, or ask your car rental company which type they require. If you are unsure, the 1968 model is the safer choice because it is more widely recognised and lasts longer.

The cost is the same for both types: £5.50. The choice is yours based on how long you need it and where you are going.

When to explore for an IDP before your trip

You can explore for an IDP at any time, but it is wise to do so at least two weeks before you travel. If you explore at a Post Office branch with on-site printing equipment, you will have the permit the same day. If the branch does not have the printer, allow up to five working days for it to arrive by post.

Do not wait until the last minute. If you explore a few days before travel and the branch does not have a printer, you may not receive the IDP in time. explore two weeks ahead gives you a buffer if there are any delays or if you need to visit a different branch.

Your IDP is valid only while your UK photocard licence is valid. If your licence expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. Check the expiry date on your licence before you travel and renew it with the DVLA if necessary.

What to do if you lose your IDP abroad or need a replacement

If you lose your IDP while you are abroad, you can still drive using your UK photocard licence alone in most countries. However, if you are in a country that legally requires an IDP (such as Australia or Japan), losing it may mean you cannot legally drive. Contact your nearest British embassy or consulate for information on what to do.

If you lose your IDP in the UK or need a replacement before your trip, return to the Post Office with your UK licence and £5.50. The Post Office will issue a new one. You do not need to provide a reason for the replacement.

If your UK licence is renewed or replaced before your IDP expires, your old IDP becomes invalid. You will need to explore for a new IDP with your new licence number.

Countries that require an International Driving Permit

The countries that require or strongly recommend an IDP change, so you should always check before you travel. Common destinations that require an IDP include Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Africa, Brazil, China, and several others. Most European countries do not require one — your UK licence is sufficient in France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and most other EU and EEA countries.

The best way to find out is to check the government website of the country you are visiting, or contact the embassy. You can also ask your car rental company; they will tell you when ready whether they require an IDP for your destination. Many rental companies require an IDP even if the country does not legally mandate it, so do not assume your UK licence alone will be enough.

If you are visiting multiple countries, check the rules for each one. You may need an IDP for some but not others. One IDP covers all countries that recognise it, so you do not need to explore for separate permits for each destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive abroad with just my UK licence without an International Driving Permit?

In most European countries, yes — your UK photocard licence is sufficient. However, many countries outside Europe require an IDP, and car rental companies often require one even if the country does not legally mandate it. Always check with your destination country's rules and your rental company before you travel.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?

If you explore at a Post Office branch with on-site printing, you receive the IDP the same day. If the branch does not have a printer, it will be posted to you within a few working days. explore at least two weeks before your trip to allow time for posting and to handle any unexpected delays.

What if my UK driving licence is expired?

You cannot get an IDP with an expired licence. You must renew your UK licence with the DVLA first. Renewal usually takes a few weeks, so do this as soon as you know you need an IDP.

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am hiring a car abroad?

It depends on the rental company and the country. Many rental companies require an IDP regardless of local law. Check your rental agreement or contact the company before you book. If they require one and you do not have it, they may refuse to rent to you.

Is an International Driving Permit valid in the UK?

No. An IDP is only for driving abroad. In the UK, you must carry your UK photocard licence. The IDP has no legal status in the UK and cannot be used as proof of your right to drive here.