Don't leave home without Post Office Travel Insurance
Use our branch finder to find your nearest branch that allows you to apply for an IDP.
What is an IDP?
An International Driving Permit is a permit that allows you to drive in countries where a UK licence alone is not sufficient. These countries include the USA, Turkey, Brazil and Japan, among others.
Do I need one?
An IDP is required or recommended in over 140 countries. The IDP you need depends on what country you're visiting. Use our IDP Checker tool below to check the requirements of the country you are planning on driving in. If you're travelling through more than one country, you might need more than one type of IDP.
How do I apply?
You need to have a valid Great Britain (GB) or Northern Ireland driving licence to get an IDP. You may also get an IDP if your licence was issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man.
Bring along your full valid photo-card licence, a passport standard photograph (see FAQs) and your valid passport as proof of identification if presenting an older paper version licence.
Which country are you planning on driving in?
Just tell us where you want to go then we'll tell you whether you need an IDP
For travel in the EU from 1st January 2021, please check the Gov.uk website www.gov.uk/driving-abroad/international-driving-permit for the latest guidance on which IDP you may need for driving.
Please visit the Gov.uk website for the latest guidance on driving abroad.
When hiring a car abroad, remember that licence requirements worldwide do vary. If you’re making an advance reservation in the UK, ask the company concerned to confirm the driving licence requirements of the countries you’re visiting. Without this info, consider an IDP as a precautionary measure. It’s the motorist’s responsibility to check with the driving authority of the country they are visiting for specific driving requirements
To drive in
No International Driving Permit is required
When hiring a car abroad, remember that licence requirements worldwide do vary. If you’re making an advance reservation in the UK, ask the company concerned to confirm the driving licence requirements of the countries you’re visiting. Without this info, consider an IDP as a precautionary measure. It’s the motorist’s responsibility to check with the driving authority of the country they are visiting for specific driving requirements
Cannot find country name
Please enter the full official country name. e.g. For USA enter United States
When hiring a car abroad, remember that licence requirements worldwide do vary. If you’re making an advance reservation in the UK, ask the company concerned to confirm the driving licence requirements of the countries you’re visiting. Without this info, consider an IDP as a precautionary measure. It’s the motorist’s responsibility to check with the driving authority of the country they are visiting for specific driving requirements
To drive in you will need an
International Driving Permit
Permit valid for 1 Year
How to apply
Bring the following…
- Full valid UK driving licence - photocard or an older paper licence
- A passport sized photograph - a recent true likeness of the applicant (see FAQs).
- The £5.50 application fee (cash or debit / credit card)
- Original valid passport as proof of identification, if presenting an older paper version licence
Find your nearest branch
Branch FinderPlease visit the Gov.uk website for the latest guidance on driving abroad.
When hiring a car abroad, remember that licence requirements worldwide do vary. If you’re making an advance reservation in the UK, ask the company concerned to confirm the driving licence requirements of the countries you’re visiting. Without this info, consider an IDP as a precautionary measure. It’s the motorist’s responsibility to check with the driving authority of the country they are visiting for specific driving requirements
What you need when applying
Driving in Europe from 1st January 2021
The rules for driving in Europe have changed. Please visit the Gov.uk website for further information.
Where’s my nearest participating branch?
Going abroad? You might also be interested in…
Travel Money
Competitive online rates and 0% commission from UK's No.1 currency provider.
Passport Check & Send
From form to photos, we’ll make sure your application meets all HM Passport Office requirements. No fuss, no mistakes.
Travel Tips and News
From preparing to visit somewhere new to getting your passport application through first time, the Post Office is here to help.
FAQs
What countries require international driving permit?
I am a foreign national in the UK, can I apply for an IDP?
Can someone apply for an IDP on my behalf?
Can I drive in my destination country with just an IDP ?
How long does an IDP last?
Can I apply for an IDP before I travel?
Can I apply for more than one IDP?
What photograph is acceptable for an IDP application?
How can I get in touch?