Does Alamo require an IDP in North Korea?
Alamo in North Korea: the policy in plain terms
Requires an IDP for licences in a non-Latin alphabet and recommends one for all international renters. Leisure-focused brand popular for airport pickups.
North Korea drives on the right, but independent driving by tourists is not permitted; all travel is on guided, state-arranged transport.
In North Korea specifically, north Korea lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but Alamo still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter. No tourist car rental exists; transport is state-controlled.
Alamo runs a global network; at its North Korea desks, foreign renters are asked for the Local rules-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. North Korea drives on the right, uses the KPW, and sets a minimum driving age of 18; an IDP is still the safest way to avoid a refused booking.
What to bring to the Alamo counter in North Korea
- Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
- Your International Driving Permit in the Local rules format.
- Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
- Local payment for the KPW deposit; North Korea drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in North Korea Alamo renters should know
- Drive on the right (not applicable to tourists).
- Independent driving is prohibited.
- All movement is guided.
- Roads outside Pyongyang are sparse.