Germany

International Driving Permit for Germany license holders

In short

Germany drivers need an IDP in any country that requires one for foreign licences. It is a translation of your Germany licence, carried together with it. German drivers should carry an International Driving Permit (Internationaler Führerschein) with their licence outside the EU and EEA.

German drivers should carry an International Driving Permit (Internationaler Führerschein) with their licence outside the EU and EEA. Your International Driving Permit is the recognised multilingual translation of your existing licence, issued in the official UN-convention format and carried alongside your national licence.

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Last reviewed June 2026

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Driving abroad on a Germany license

Tap a country for the exact verdict for Germany drivers — required or recommended, the convention basis, and what to carry.

Germany drivers — common questions

01

Do Germany license holders need an International Driving Permit?

Germany drivers need an IDP in any country that requires one for foreign licences. It is a translation of your Germany licence, carried together with it. German drivers should carry an International Driving Permit (Internationaler Führerschein) with their licence outside the EU and EEA.

02

Is Germany part of the driving conventions?

Germany is party to 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions on road traffic, which govern which IDP format applies abroad.

03

How fast can a Germany driver get an IDP?

As fast as 8 minutes — enter your details and licence, pay, and your digital permit is emailed to you.