NZ licence Portugal

Driving in Portugal with a NZ license

IDP Required

Yes — to drive in Portugal on an NZ licence you should carry an International Driving Permit together with your NZ licence. Portugal expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP.

Convention basisPortugal recognises the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions. We issue the permit in that exact format.

At the rental deskRequested for licences issued outside the EU/EEA.

CarryCarry BOTH your NZ national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.

Minimum age18+ 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 2026Source: Geneva 1949 / Vienna 1968

Get my IDP for Portugal Full Portugal guide

New Zealand drivers should carry an International Driving Permit alongside their licence when driving abroad. 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 Portugal

Electronic tolls (Via Verde) — arrange with your rental car.
Reflective vest and triangle required.
0.05% alcohol limit; 0.02% for new drivers.
Dipped headlights in tunnels.

Common questions

Do I need an IDP to drive in Portugal with a NZ license?

Yes — to drive in Portugal on an NZ licence you should carry an International Driving Permit together with your NZ licence. Portugal expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP.

What IDP format does Portugal accept?

Portugal recognises the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions. We issue the permit in that exact format.

Do I still carry my NZ license?

Carry BOTH your NZ national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.