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Category A · motorcycles & scooters

International Driving Permit for Motorcycles & Scooters

Short answer

If you plan to rent a scooter or motorbike abroad, you need an IDP that shows motorcycle category A — your national motorcycle licence alone usually isn't readable or accepted at the rental shop, the police checkpoint, or the insurance claim. Select the motorcycle class when you apply and it is stamped on your permit.

Written by Daniel MercerUpdated July 2026

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Do you need a motorcycle IDP?

Three separate parties can demand it: the rental shop releasing the bike, the police at a roadside check, and — most expensively — your insurer after an accident. Even in places where shops hand over scooters freely, an unlicensed rider's medical and damage claims are routinely refused. The permit costs a fraction of one day of that risk.

Category A on your permit

The convention permit lists vehicle categories A through E. Motorcycles and scooters are category A; cars are category B. During the application you tap the licence classes you hold — pick motorcycle alongside car if your national licence covers both, and the category appears stamped in your booklet and on your QR ID card.

Countries that check riders

Thailand: Police checkpoints near beach towns routinely check foreign riders; fines on the spot without an IDP.Indonesia (Bali): Rental shops rarely ask, but police do — and insurers refuse claims from unlicensed riders.Vietnam: A motorcycle IDP (1968 convention) is the only way most visitors can ride legally.Greece: Island scooter and quad hires require an IDP for non-EU licences — rental desks check.Italy: Scooter hire in cities and on the coast requires an IDP for non-EU licences.Spain: Non-EU riders need an IDP for motorbike and scooter rentals on the islands and mainland.

Frequently asked

Common questions

Do I need an IDP to rent a scooter abroad?

In most popular scooter destinations, yes. Thailand, Indonesia (Bali), Vietnam and Greece all expect foreign riders to carry an IDP showing motorcycle category A — and without it, rental insurance is typically void even if the shop hands you the keys.

What is category A on an IDP?

Category A is the motorcycle classification on the convention permit. When you apply, select the motorcycle class alongside car (B) if your national licence covers both — the category is stamped on your permit booklet.

Will travel insurance cover a scooter accident without an IDP?

Usually not. Most travel and rental insurers require you to be legally licensed for the vehicle, which abroad means your national motorcycle licence plus an IDP. Riding without one is the most common reason scooter-accident claims are refused.

My licence only covers cars — can I still get a motorcycle IDP?

No. The IDP mirrors your national licence categories; it cannot add motorcycle entitlement you don't hold at home. If your licence covers cars only, your IDP will show category B.

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