the United Kingdom

International Driving Permit for UK license holders

In short

UK drivers need an IDP in any country that requires one for foreign licences. It is a translation of your UK licence, carried together with it. UK drivers should carry an International Driving Permit with their licence; some countries recognise the 1949 version and others the 1968 version.

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 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 UK license

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

UK drivers — common questions

01

Do UK license holders need an International Driving Permit?

UK drivers need an IDP in any country that requires one for foreign licences. It is a translation of your UK licence, carried together with it. UK drivers should carry an International Driving Permit with their licence; some countries recognise the 1949 version and others the 1968 version.

02

Is the United Kingdom part of the driving conventions?

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

03

How fast can a UK driver get an IDP?

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