Does National require an IDP in Philippines?
National in Philippines: 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.
The Philippines drives on the right and lets visitors use a valid foreign licence for up to 90 days; an IDP helps for non-English licences.
In Philippines specifically, philippines 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. Manila desks recommend an IDP for non-English licences.
National runs a global network; at its Philippines desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Philippines drives on the right, uses the PHP, 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 Philippines
- 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 PHP deposit; Philippines drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in Philippines National renters should know
- Drive on the right.
- Number-coding scheme limits plates on set days in Metro Manila.
- 0.05% alcohol limit.
- Helmets mandatory for motorbikes.