What an International Driving Permit is and whether you need one
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your New Zealand driver's licence into ten languages. It is not a separate licence — it works only alongside your valid NZ licence, and you must carry both documents together when driving abroad.
You need an IDP if you plan to drive in most countries outside New Zealand, Australia, and a small number of Pacific nations. Some rental car companies require it even in countries where it is not legally mandatory. The permit is recognised in over 150 countries and is issued under the 1926 and 1968 United Nations Conventions on Road Signs and Signals.
If you are moving to another country permanently or planning to stay longer than a few months, you will eventually need to convert your NZ licence to a local one instead. An IDP is a temporary solution for visitors and short-term travellers.
Key Takeaways
- An IDP is issued by the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) and costs $30 NZD, valid for three years from the date of issue.
- You must hold a current, valid New Zealand driver's licence to get an IDP; the permit cannot be issued if your licence is suspended, cancelled, or expired.
- You can request an IDP online through the NZTA website, by post, or in person at a Service Centre, and processing usually takes 5 to 10 working days.
- You must carry both your IDP and your original NZ licence together when driving overseas; the IDP alone is not valid.
- An IDP does not change your driving rights or insurance status — your home insurance and any overseas insurance requirements remain separate.
How to request an IDP from the NZTA
The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) issues IDPs and offers three ways to request one. The fastest method is online through the NZTA website (transport.govt.nz). You will need your NZ driver's licence number, a valid email address, and a payment method. The online form takes about 10 minutes to complete, and you can pay by credit or debit card. The permit is then posted to your address within 5 to 10 working days.
If you prefer not to use the online form, you can read a paper process form from the NZTA website, print it, and post it to the NZTA with a cheque or money order for $30. This method takes longer — typically 2 to 3 weeks — because of postal delays.
You can also visit a Service Centre in person. Service Centres are located in most towns and cities across New Zealand. Bring your current NZ driver's licence and $30 cash or a card. The staff will complete the process on your behalf, and you will receive your IDP by post within 5 to 10 working days. A list of Service Centre locations is on the NZTA website.
What you need before you request an IDP
Your New Zealand driver's licence must be current and valid. If your licence is suspended, cancelled, expired, or subject to any court order, you cannot get an IDP until the issue is resolved. Check your licence status on the NZTA website or by calling 0800 822 422 if you are unsure.
You will also need a postal address in New Zealand where the IDP can be sent. If you are leaving the country soon, arrange for someone to receive it on your behalf, or use a mail forwarding service. The NZTA will not hold permits for collection — they are posted only.
If you are requesting an IDP online, have your licence number and email address ready. If you are explore by post or in person, bring your physical licence with you. The NZTA does not need a photograph, proof of address, or any other supporting documents.
Cost, validity period, and renewal
An IDP costs $30 NZD and is valid for three years from the date it is issued. The expiry date is printed on the front of the permit. You do not need to renew it if you are not travelling again — straightforward let it expire. If you travel frequently or plan to drive overseas again within three years, you can request a new one at any time; there is no limit to how many you can hold.
If your NZ driver's licence expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. You must renew your NZ licence first, then request a new IDP if you still need one. The NZTA will not extend an IDP or issue a refund if your licence expires early.
Using your IDP when you drive overseas
Carry both your IDP and your original NZ driver's licence together at all times when driving outside New Zealand. The IDP is a translation document only and is not valid without your licence. Some countries require you to carry both documents in your vehicle; others ask to see them only if you are stopped by police.
Rental car companies often ask to see both documents when you collect a vehicle. Some companies will not rent to you without an IDP, even in countries where it is not legally required. Check the rental company's requirements before you book.
If you are involved in an accident or stopped by police, present both documents. The IDP helps police and insurance companies understand your driving record if they do not read English. Do not rely on the IDP alone — it has no legal standing without your licence.
How an IDP affects your insurance and driving rights
An IDP does not change your driving rights or your insurance status. It is purely a translation document. Your New Zealand car insurance does not automatically cover you overseas — you must check your policy or purchase separate overseas driving insurance before you leave.
If you are renting a car abroad, the rental company's insurance applies to that vehicle, not your home insurance. Read the rental agreement carefully and understand what is and is not covered. Many rental companies offer optional damage waiver or theft protection, which you can add at the time of booking.
An IDP does not affect your licence status in New Zealand. If your licence is suspended or cancelled while you are overseas, the NZTA will notify you by post. You will not be able to drive legally in New Zealand when you return until the suspension or cancellation is lifted.
What to do if your IDP is lost, damaged, or stolen
If your IDP is lost, damaged, or stolen while you are overseas, contact the New Zealand embassy or high commission in that country. They can issue a temporary letter confirming that you hold a valid NZ licence, which some police officers and rental companies will accept. This is not an official replacement, but it may help in an emergency.
When you return to New Zealand, you can request a replacement IDP from the NZTA using the same process as a new process. There is no additional fee or penalty. If your licence was also lost or stolen, you must report it to the NZTA and explore for a replacement licence first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive in Australia with just my NZ licence, or do I need an IDP?
You do not need an IDP to drive in Australia. Your current New Zealand driver's licence is recognised there. However, you may need to carry an International Driving Permit if you are renting a car, as some rental companies require it. Check with your rental company before you book.
What happens if my NZ licence expires while I'm overseas?
Your IDP becomes invalid if your NZ licence expires. You should renew your licence before you travel if you know it will expire while you are away. If it expires overseas, you cannot legally drive. Contact the New Zealand embassy or high commission for information on your options.
Do I need travel insurance as well as an IDP?
An IDP is not insurance — it is a translation document. You must purchase separate travel insurance and overseas driving insurance before you leave New Zealand. Travel insurance covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations; driving insurance covers vehicle damage and liability. Check what your home car insurance covers overseas, as some policies do not extend beyond New Zealand.
How long does it take to get an IDP if I explore online?
Online applications are processed within 5 to 10 working days, and the IDP is posted to your address. If you need it urgently, visit a Service Centre in person — staff can complete the process when ready, but you still receive the permit by post within 5 to 10 working days. There is no express or priority service available.
Can I get an IDP if my licence is suspended?
No. Your licence must be current and valid. If it is suspended, cancelled, or expired, the NZTA will not issue an IDP. Resolve the suspension or cancellation with the NZTA first, then request an IDP. Call 0800 822 422 to check your licence status.