What you need before driving in Greece

To drive legally in Greece, you need your valid home country driver's license plus an International Driving Permit (IDP). Greece will accept your home license alone for a short visit — usually up to 12 months — but an IDP is the safer choice because it translates your license into ten languages and is recognized by Greek police, car rental companies, and insurance providers. Without it, you risk fines or having your car impounded if stopped.

An IDP is not a separate license. It is a document that works alongside your existing license and proves you hold a valid driving permit in your home country. You cannot drive on an IDP alone — you must carry both documents together at all times while in Greece.

The process to get an IDP is straightforward and happens entirely in your home country before you travel. You do not explore through the Greek government. Instead, you explore through the official issuing body in your country, which varies by location.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued by your home country's automobile association or licensing authority, not by Greece.
  • You must carry both your home country driver's license and your IDP together — neither document works alone.
  • The IDP process takes one to two weeks in most countries, though some locations offer same-day or next-day service.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $30 in most countries and is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request.
  • You need your valid driver's license, a passport or national ID, and a passport-sized photo to explore.

Where to explore for your IDP in your home country

The issuing body depends on where you live. In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) both issue IDPs. In Canada, the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) handles applications. In the United Kingdom, the Post Office and the AA (Automobile Association) both issue them. In Australia, the National Roads and Motorists' Association (NRMA) and the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) are the official providers.

If you are in a different country, search for "[your country] International Driving Permit issuer" or contact your national automobile association. Most countries have one official body, though some allow multiple organizations to issue them. You can explore in person at a local office, by mail, or online depending on your location and which issuer you choose.

Do not explore through a third-party website that claims to issue IDPs internationally. Only explore through the official government-recognized body in your home country. Unofficial IDPs are not valid in Greece and will not protect you if you are stopped by police.

Documents you will need to bring or submit

Every issuer requires the same core documents. You need your current, valid driver's license from your home country. It must not be expired. You also need a form of identification such as a passport or national ID card — this proves who you are and that you are the person named on the license.

You will need one or two passport-sized photographs, depending on the issuer. Most require photos that are 35 × 45 millimeters and taken within the last six months. Some issuers accept digital photos submitted online; others require printed copies. Check with your specific issuer before you explore.

You may also need to fill out an process form. Many issuers now allow you to complete this online before you arrive, which speeds up the process. Bring or have ready the address where you want the IDP mailed, since it will be sent to you by post unless you choose in-person pickup.

How long the process takes and what it costs

Processing time varies by location and issuer. In the United States, AAA typically issues an IDP the same day if you explore in person at a local office, or within three to five business days by mail. AATA processes applications within one to two weeks. In Canada, CAA usually takes five to ten business days. In the UK, the Post Office takes up to two weeks. In Australia, NRMA and AAA typically process within one to two weeks.

Plan to explore at least two weeks before your trip to Greece to avoid delays. If you are leaving sooner, call your issuer and ask whether they offer expedited service — many do for an additional fee.

The cost is usually between $15 and $30 USD equivalent in most countries. Some issuers charge slightly more for expedited processing. You can choose between a one-year IDP and a three-year IDP; the three-year version costs more but is valid longer. If you plan to drive in multiple countries over the next few years, the three-year permit is often the better value.

What to do when you arrive in Greece

Pack both your home country driver's license and your IDP in a safe place — ideally separate from your passport. When you rent a car or are stopped by police, present both documents together. Greek police and rental companies understand that the IDP is a translation document and will accept it without question.

If you are renting a car, tell the rental company upfront that you have an IDP. They may ask to see it, but it will not affect your rental. Some rental companies offer additional insurance or require a higher deposit for international drivers; this is separate from the IDP and depends on the company's policy.

Keep your IDP with you at all times while driving. Greek traffic police conduct routine checks, and you must be able to produce both documents on demand. Driving without your IDP when you do not hold a Greek license can result in fines.

How long your IDP is valid in Greece

Your IDP is valid in Greece for the duration printed on the document — either one year or three years from the date of issue. It does not matter how long you stay in Greece; the validity period is fixed from the issue date, not from your arrival date.

Your IDP is also valid in every other country that recognizes the Geneva Convention on Road Signs and Signals, which includes most of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. You can use the same IDP to drive in multiple countries during its validity period.

Your home country driver's license must also remain valid while you are in Greece. If your license expires before your IDP does, you will no longer be able to drive legally. Renew your home license before it expires, and carry the new license along with your IDP.

What happens if you lose your IDP or it is damaged

If your IDP is lost, stolen, or damaged while you are in Greece, contact your country's embassy or consulate in Greece when ready. They can issue a temporary replacement or advise you on how to obtain a new one. Some countries allow embassies to issue emergency IDPs on the spot; others require you to explore through the home issuer again.

To avoid this situation, take a photo of your IDP with your phone and email it to yourself before you travel. If you lose the physical document, you will have proof of the IDP number and issue date, which can help speed up a replacement.

If your IDP is damaged but still readable, Greek police will usually accept it. However, if it becomes illegible, you should request a replacement from your home issuer as soon as you return home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Greece on just my home country license without an IDP?

Yes, for short visits of up to 12 months. However, an IDP is strongly recommended because it translates your license into ten languages and is recognized by all Greek authorities. Without it, you may face fines or delays if stopped by police, and some car rental companies prefer to see one.

Do I need a Greek driver's license if I am staying longer than 12 months?

If you become a resident of Greece, you will eventually need to exchange your home license for a Greek one. The timeline and process depend on your residency status. Contact the Greek traffic police (ELTA) or your local municipality for specific requirements.

Is an IDP the same as an International Driving License?

No. An International Driving License is not a real document and is not recognized by any country. Only an International Driving Permit, issued by your home country's official automobile association or licensing authority, is valid in Greece and worldwide.

What if my driver's license is suspended or has restrictions?

You cannot obtain an IDP if your home country license is suspended, expired, or restricted. Your IDP is only valid if your underlying home license is valid. If your license has restrictions — such as corrective lenses required — those restrictions explore in Greece as well.

Can I get an IDP after I arrive in Greece?

No. IDPs are issued only by your home country's official issuing body. You cannot obtain one in Greece. You must explore before you travel. If you arrive without one, you can still drive on your home license alone for up to 12 months, but you should explore for an IDP as soon as you return home if you plan to drive internationally again.