Europe travel guide
Driving in Italy with a foreign licence
Bring an IDP
Rental desks and local authorities in Italy commonly ask foreign drivers to carry an IDP alongside their national licence. Rental companies and local authorities in Italy routinely ask non-EU drivers to carry an IDP alongside their home licence.
The essentials
Drives onThe right
IDPStrongly recommended
Minimum age18+
Convention1949 Geneva & 1968 Vienna
On the road
Rules of the road in Italy
- ZTL (limited-traffic) zones in city centres are camera-enforced — heavy fines.
- Headlights required on motorways at all times.
- Carry a reflective jacket and warning triangle.
- 0.05% alcohol limit; zero for drivers under 21.
At the rental desk
Italian traffic authorities typically expect the printed IDP booklet, not just a digital copy.
Common questions
01
Can I drive in Italy with a foreign licence?
Yes, with your national licence plus an International Driving Permit, which Italy requires for foreign drivers.
02
Which side of the road does Italy drive on?
Italy drives on the right.
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