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National · North Korea

Does National require an IDP in North Korea?

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North Korea lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
National in North Korea
National IDP policyRequired for non-Roman-alphabet licences
National footprintGlobal
Accepted formatLocal rules
Minimum rental age18+ (surcharge under 25)
Drives on theRight

National in North Korea: the policy in plain terms

Requires an IDP for non-Latin-alphabet licences and where local regulations require it. Business-traveller brand known for Emerald Aisle.

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 National 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.

National 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 National 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 National renters should know

  • Drive on the right (not applicable to tourists).
  • Independent driving is prohibited.
  • All movement is guided.
  • Roads outside Pyongyang are sparse.

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to rent from National in North Korea?
North Korea lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
02
What documents should I bring to the National desk in North Korea?
Bring your original national driving licence, your International Driving Permit in the Local rules format, your passport, and the payment card in the main driver's name. North Korea drives on the right and the minimum rental age is typically 18+.
03
What is National's general policy on International Driving Permits?
Requires an IDP for non-Latin-alphabet licences and where local regulations require it. Business-traveller brand known for Emerald Aisle.