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Driving in Iceland with a UK license

IDP Recommended

An International Driving Permit is recommended (not strictly required) for UK licence holders driving in Iceland. Your UK licence is in the Roman alphabet, but an IDP removes any doubt at rental desks and roadside checks. Carry both.

Convention basisIceland recognises the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions. We issue the permit in that exact format.
At the rental deskF-road (highland) driving requires a 4x4 and specific insurance.
CarryCarry BOTH your UK national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.
Minimum age17+ to drive; rental typically 21+ with a young-driver surcharge under 25
Validity1–3 years (you choose at checkout)
FormatDigital PDF you print yourself, plus a QR-verifiable ID card — accepted alongside printed permits
Last verified June 2026Convention: Both
Get my IDP for Iceland Full Iceland guide

UK drivers should carry an International Driving Permit with their licence; some countries recognise the 1949 version and others the 1968 version. Your International Driving Permit is the recognised multilingual translation of your existing licence, issued in the 1949 Geneva & 1968 Vienna format and carried alongside your national licence.

Driving rules in Iceland

  • Headlights on 24/7 by law.
  • Off-road driving is illegal and heavily fined.
  • 0.05% alcohol limit.
  • Gravel and single-lane bridges common on Route 1.

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to drive in Iceland with a UK license?
An International Driving Permit is recommended (not strictly required) for UK licence holders driving in Iceland. Your UK licence is in the Roman alphabet, but an IDP removes any doubt at rental desks and roadside checks. Carry both.
02
What IDP format does Iceland accept?
Iceland recognises the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions. We issue the permit in that exact format.
03
Do I still carry my UK license?
Carry BOTH your UK national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.
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