Does National require an IDP in New Zealand?
Written by Daniel MercerUpdated July 2026
National in New Zealand: the policy in plain terms
Asks for a licence translation for non-Latin-alphabet licences and where local rules call for one. Business-traveller brand known for Emerald Aisle.
Drive on a valid English licence or carry an IDP/translation if it is in another language.
In New Zealand specifically, new Zealand lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still asks for a licence translation if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter. An accurate English translation or IDP is expected for non-English licences.
National runs a global network; at its New Zealand desks, foreign renters are asked for an International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva Convention format alongside the original licence. New Zealand drives on the left, uses the NZD, and sets a minimum driving age of 16; an IDP is still the safest way to avoid a refused booking.
What to bring to the National counter in New Zealand
- Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
- Your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva Convention format.
- Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
- Local payment for the NZD deposit; New Zealand drives on the left with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in New Zealand National renters should know
- Drive on the left.
- Give way rules at intersections are strict.
- Many rural roads are narrow and winding.
- 0.05% alcohol limit; zero under 20.
National's rental terms that affect your IDP booking
The minimum age to rent is typically 21 (18 in Michigan and New York, as required by state law); renters aged 21-24 pay a "Youthful Surcharge" of approximately $25 per day (varies by location, lower in some states such as $5/day in New York) and may be restricted to certain car classes.
A major credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Amex) in the primary renter's name with sufficient available credit is required; National generally does not accept debit cards, and renters without a ticketed return travel itinerary must provide a hold/deposit typically between $300 and $400 depending on location and vehicle class.
The renter's spouse or domestic partner who meets the same age and licence requirements drives free; other additional authorized drivers cost about $15 per day (typically $5/day in New York), and must be at least 21 with a valid licence. National requires a valid, unexpired full driver's licence held by the renter; for under-25 drivers some locations require the licence to have been held for at least one year, though National does not publish a uniform minimum tenure across all locations.
Vehicles rented in the U.S. or Canada are prohibited from being driven into Mexico; U.S.-Canada cross-border travel is generally permitted but one-way US/Canada drop-offs are limited to participating locations, and rentals originating in certain Mexican cities (e.g. Tijuana, Mexicali, Hermosillo, Monterrey, Saltillo) may cross into the U.S. after purchasing an extension of liability protection (about $10 USD/day).
National states that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is commonly requested in select countries and is generally recommended when travelling abroad; specifically, overseas travelers whose licence uses a non-Roman alphabet may need to present an IDP alongside their home-country licence.
Once you collect the keys in New Zealand
Only three North Island roads are tolled (Northern Gateway near Auckland, Takitimu Drive and Tauranga Eastern Link); there are no booths - pay online at NZTA, via the rental company, or at some petrol stations within five days.
Urban parking is paid at kerbside kiosks or apps (coin or card), with time-limited and resident zones marked on signs; unpaid or overstayed parking earns infringement tickets.
Speeding and seatbelt offences draw fixed infringement fees, and handheld mobile-phone use is a NZD 150 fine plus demerits; fines are issued by camera or police and passed on by rental firms.
Call 111 for injuries; you must stop and exchange details, and report to police within 60 hours (immediately if anyone is hurt) - driving on without authority can void your rental insurance.
Full driving guide for New Zealand →