Europe travel guide
Driving in Germany with a foreign licence
Bring an IDP
Rental desks and local authorities in Germany commonly ask foreign drivers to carry an IDP alongside their national licence. Visitors from outside the EU should carry an IDP with their licence to drive or rent in Germany.
The essentials
Drives onThe right
IDPStrongly recommended
Minimum age18+
Convention1949 Geneva & 1968 Vienna
On the road
Rules of the road in Germany
- Autobahn: keep right except to overtake; some sections have no speed limit.
- Winter tyres mandatory in wintry conditions.
- Environmental (Umweltplakette) sticker required for low-emission city zones.
- 0.05% alcohol limit; zero for drivers under 21.
At the rental desk
Requested for non-Roman-alphabet and non-EU licences at all major chains.
Common questions
01
Can I drive in Germany with a foreign licence?
Yes, with your national licence plus an International Driving Permit, which Germany requires for foreign drivers.
02
Which side of the road does Germany drive on?
Germany drives on the right.
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