Do You Need an International Driving Permit to Drive in Portugal

You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Portugal only if your driver's license is not in Latin characters or if a police officer asks to see one

Portugal accepts foreign driver's licenses from most countries without requiring an International Driving Permit. If your license is written in Latin characters (the standard alphabet used in English, French, German, and most European languages), you can drive legally with just your original license and your passport. However, if your license uses Cyrillic, Arabic, Chinese, or any non-Latin script, you must carry an IDP alongside it—Portuguese police will not accept a non-Latin license alone.

An IDP is not a replacement for your driver's license. It is a translation document that confirms your home country has issued you a valid license. Portugal recognizes IDPs issued by your home country's motor vehicle authority, and they are valid for one year from the date of issue. You must carry both your original license and the IDP together; one without the other is not sufficient.

Rental car companies in Portugal often require an IDP even if the law does not strictly mandate one. Many major rental agencies—including Hertz, Avis, and local Portuguese companies—list an IDP as a requirement or strongly recommend it. Check your rental agreement before you book, because a missing IDP can result in the rental company refusing to hand over the car or voiding your insurance coverage.

Key Takeaways

If your driver's license uses Latin characters, you do not need an International Driving Permit to drive legally in Portugal, but you must carry your original license and passport.
If your license is in Cyrillic, Arabic, Chinese, or another non-Latin script, you must obtain an International Driving Permit from your home country's motor vehicle authority before traveling.
An International Driving Permit is valid for one year and must be carried together with your original license; it is not a standalone document.
Rental car companies often require an International Driving Permit regardless of your license's script, so check your rental agreement in advance.
You cannot obtain an International Driving Permit in Portugal; you must explore for one in your home country before you travel.

How to get an International Driving Permit before you travel

You must explore for an International Driving Permit in your home country through your national motor vehicle authority—you cannot obtain one in Portugal. The process, cost, and processing time vary by country. In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) both issue IDPs for a fee of around $15 to $20, and you can receive one in person the same day or by mail within a few days. In Canada, the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) handles IDP applications. In the United Kingdom, the Post Office and the AA (Automobile Association) both issue IDPs.

To explore, you will typically need your valid driver's license, a passport or national ID, and a passport-sized photograph. Some countries allow you to explore online and pick up the IDP in person; others require you to visit an office in person. Processing times range from same-day service to two weeks, depending on your country and the method you choose. If you are leaving soon and your country offers expedited service, use it—arriving in Portugal without an IDP when you need one means you cannot legally drive.

Check the expiration date on your IDP before you leave home. An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue, so if you obtained one more than a year ago, it is no longer valid. You will need to renew it through your home country's motor vehicle authority before traveling.

What to carry when you drive in Portugal

Portuguese law requires you to carry your original driver's license at all times while driving. You must also carry your passport or national ID card. If you have an International Driving Permit, carry it as well—it should be in your vehicle or on your person whenever you are behind the wheel.

In addition to your license and IDP, carry proof of vehicle insurance, vehicle registration documents, and a valid passport. If you are renting a car, the rental company will provide the registration and insurance documents; keep them in the vehicle. Police can stop you at any time and ask for these documents. Failure to produce them can result in a fine, even if your license is valid.

Wear your seatbelt at all times, and do not drive under the influence of alcohol. Portugal has strict drink-driving laws, and the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% for most drivers and 0.02% for drivers under 25 or those with less than two years of driving experience. Violating these rules can result in fines, license suspension, or criminal charges.

Driving as a tourist versus driving as a resident

If you are visiting Portugal as a tourist, your foreign driver's license is valid for the duration of your stay, provided it is in Latin characters or accompanied by an International Driving Permit. You do not need to exchange your license or register with Portuguese authorities. However, if you plan to stay in Portugal for more than a few months or become a resident, the rules change.

Portugal requires residents to exchange their foreign driver's license for a Portuguese one within a certain timeframe—typically within one year of establishing residency. The process involves passing a medical examination and, in some cases, a written or practical driving test. If you are moving to Portugal permanently or staying long-term, contact the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes Terrestres (IMTT), Portugal's road transport authority, to learn the specific requirements for your situation.

What happens if you drive without the required documents

Driving in Portugal without a valid license, passport, or required International Driving Permit can result in fines ranging from €60 to €300 or more, depending on the violation. Police can also impound your vehicle and require you to pay a fine before it is released. If you are renting a car and do not have the required documents, the rental company may refuse to let you drive it, and you will lose your rental fee.

If you are involved in an accident and cannot produce a valid license or IDP, your insurance may refuse to cover the damage. This can leave you personally liable for repair costs, medical bills, and other expenses. In serious cases, you could face criminal charges or deportation if you are a foreign national.

Common mistakes travelers make with driving documents in Portugal

Many travelers assume that because their license is in English or another common language, they do not need an International Driving Permit. While this is technically true if your license uses Latin characters, rental companies often disagree. Arriving without an IDP when your rental agreement requires one means you cannot rent the car, even if the law does not mandate it. Always check your rental agreement before you book and obtain an IDP if there is any doubt.

Another common mistake is carrying an expired International Driving Permit. An IDP is valid for only one year, and an expired one is not accepted. If you obtained your IDP more than a year before your trip, you must renew it. Do not assume your old IDP is still valid.

Some travelers also forget to carry their passport alongside their license and IDP. Portuguese police may ask for your passport to verify your identity and confirm that you are legally in the country. Without it, you can be fined even if your license is valid. Keep your passport with you whenever you drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Portugal with just my US driver's license and no International Driving Permit?

Yes, if your US license uses Latin characters, which all US licenses do. You do not need an International Driving Permit by law. However, your rental car company may require one, so check your rental agreement. Always carry your original license and passport.

What if my driver's license is in a language I cannot read?

If your license is in a non-Latin script—such as Arabic, Chinese, or Cyrillic—you must obtain an International Driving Permit from your home country before traveling to Portugal. Portuguese police will not accept a non-Latin license without an IDP.

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

Processing time varies by country. In the US, the AAA can issue one same-day in person or within a few days by mail. In other countries, it may take one to two weeks. explore well before your trip to avoid delays.

Can I get an International Driving Permit in Portugal if I forgot to get one at home?

No. International Driving Permits are issued only by your home country's motor vehicle authority. If you arrive in Portugal without one and your license is in a non-Latin script, you cannot legally drive. If your rental company requires an IDP and you do not have one, you cannot rent a car.

What should I do if a police officer asks for my International Driving Permit and I do not have one?

If your license is in Latin characters, you can explain that your country does not require an IDP for travel to Portugal. Show your original license and passport. If your license is in a non-Latin script and you do not have an IDP, you are breaking the law and can be fined. Do not drive without one if your license requires it.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.