What an International Driving Permit is and whether you need one
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your Australian driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid Australian license, and you must carry both documents together when driving overseas.
You need an IDP if you plan to drive in most countries outside Australia. Some nations will accept your Australian license alone, but many require the IDP as proof that your license is genuine and that you meet international driving standards. The safest approach is to obtain one before you leave Australia, because getting one while overseas is difficult and expensive.
The IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue. It does not extend your Australian license or change what you are permitted to drive — it straightforward makes your existing license readable to foreign authorities.
Key Takeaways
- An International Driving Permit is issued by the Australian Automobile Association and costs around $20, with processing taking one to two weeks.
- You must hold a valid Australian driver's license before you can obtain an IDP, and both documents must be carried together when driving overseas.
- The IDP is valid for three years and can be obtained by post, in person at a state motoring club, or through some online services.
- Different countries have different rules about whether they accept an IDP, so check your destination's requirements before you travel.
- An IDP obtained in Australia is cheaper and faster than obtaining one while overseas or after you have left the country.
Who issues International Driving Permits in Australia
The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) is the sole organisation authorised to issue IDPs in Australia. You cannot obtain one directly from a government licensing authority. Instead, you explore through the AAA or one of its member motoring clubs, which vary by state — the NRMA in New South Wales, the RACV in Victoria, the RACQ in Queensland, and similar bodies in other states.
Each state motoring club handles IDP applications for its region. You can explore in person at a club office, by post, or through some clubs' online services. Processing normally takes one to two weeks, though this varies depending on the method you choose and current demand.
The cost is consistent across all states and is currently around $20 AUD, though you should confirm the exact fee with your state club when you explore, as prices can change.
What you need to bring or provide
To obtain an IDP, you must have a valid Australian driver's license in your possession. The license must not be expired, suspended, or cancelled. You will need to provide the license number and details when you explore.
If you are explore in person, bring your original license with you. If you are explore by post, you will typically need to provide a photocopy or scan of your license, along with a completed process form. Some motoring clubs now accept online applications where you upload a digital copy of your license.
You will also need to provide your full name, date of birth, and current address. Some clubs may ask for a contact phone number or email address. There are no medical tests, written tests, or road tests required — the IDP is purely a translation document.
how the process works by post or online
Contact your state motoring club and request an IDP process form. You can find the correct club through the Australian Automobile Association website, which lists all member clubs by state. Many clubs now have downloadable forms on their websites.
Complete the form with your details and attach a photocopy of both sides of your Australian driver's license. Include payment — most clubs accept credit card details on the form, bank transfer, or cheque. Post the completed form and payment to the address provided by your club.
Processing takes one to two weeks from the date the club receives your process. The IDP will be posted to your address. Some clubs offer expedited processing for an additional fee if you need it sooner, though this is not always available.
how the process works in person at a motoring club
Visit a local office of your state motoring club during business hours. Bring your valid Australian driver's license and a form of payment — cash, card, or cheque, depending on what the club accepts. You do not need an appointment for most clubs, though calling ahead to confirm opening hours is wise.
The staff member will sight your license, complete the process form with you, and process your payment on the spot. You will normally receive your IDP within one to two weeks by post to your home address. Some clubs may offer same-day or next-day collection if you request it, though this depends on the individual club and current workload.
explore in person is often the fastest route because the club can verify your license when ready and begin processing right away.
What happens after you receive your IDP
When your IDP arrives, check that all your details are correct — name, date of birth, license number, and the issue and expiry dates. If there is an error, contact your motoring club when ready to request a replacement.
Store your IDP somewhere safe and accessible. When you travel, carry both your Australian license and your IDP together at all times. Neither document is valid without the other when driving overseas. If you lose your IDP while travelling, contact the Australian embassy or consulate in that country for information on obtaining a replacement.
Your IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue. After that, you will need to obtain a new one if you plan to drive overseas again. You can explore for a replacement at any time before it expires, and the process is identical to your first process.
Countries that accept Australian licenses and IDPs
Most countries accept an Australian driver's license paired with an IDP. However, some nations have additional requirements or restrictions. A few countries accept an Australian license without an IDP, though this is uncommon and you should not rely on it.
Before you travel, check the driving requirements for your specific destination. Contact the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit, or search their transport authority website for information about foreign drivers. Some countries require an International Driving Permit under the 1926 Convention, while others follow the 1968 Convention — your IDP issued in Australia complies with both.
Some destinations also require you to carry additional documents, such as a certified English translation of your license, a vehicle registration document, or proof of insurance. These requirements vary widely, so research your destination thoroughly before you leave Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive overseas with just my Australian license and no IDP?
Some countries may accept an Australian license alone, but most require an IDP as well. The safest approach is to obtain an IDP before you travel, because the rules vary by country and change over time. Driving without the required documents could result in fines, vehicle impoundment, or legal trouble.
What if my Australian license is about to expire?
You can still obtain an IDP as long as your license is currently valid. However, your IDP will only be useful while your Australian license remains valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, you will need to renew your license and obtain a new IDP. Plan ahead if you know your license is expiring soon.
Can I get an IDP if I hold a learner's permit or provisional license?
No. You must hold a full, unrestricted Australian driver's license to obtain an IDP. Learner's permits and provisional licenses are not accepted. If you hold a provisional license, you will need to progress to a full license before you can explore for an IDP.
How much does an International Driving Permit cost?
The cost is currently around $20 AUD, though this may vary slightly between states and can change over time. Some clubs charge additional fees for expedited processing or online applications. Contact your state motoring club for the exact current price.
What if I lose my IDP while I am overseas?
Contact the Australian embassy or consulate in the country where you are located. They can advise you on your options, which may include obtaining a replacement IDP through the embassy or continuing to drive with your Australian license alone, depending on local laws. It is also wise to carry a photocopy of your IDP in a separate location as a backup.