Does Avis require an IDP in Guatemala?
Avis in Guatemala: the policy in plain terms
Requires an IDP where the national licence is not in the Roman alphabet or where local law requires it. Long-established global brand operating in 165+ countries.
Guatemala drives on the right and accepts a valid foreign licence for short stays; an IDP is advised for non-Latin-script holders.
In Guatemala specifically, guatemala lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but Avis still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter. Guatemala City desks accept many licences; an IDP helps non-Latin scripts.
Avis runs a global network; at its Guatemala desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Guatemala drives on the right, uses the GTQ, 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 Avis counter in Guatemala
- Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
- Your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format.
- Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
- Local payment for the GTQ deposit; Guatemala drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in Guatemala Avis renters should know
- Drive on the right.
- Avoid night driving outside cities.
- 0.08% alcohol limit.
- Topes (speed bumps) frequent in towns.