Does Thrifty require an IDP in Brazil?
Thrifty in Brazil: the policy in plain terms
Requires an IDP in select countries and for non-Roman-alphabet licences. Budget-friendly brand paired with Dollar in many markets.
Brazil requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence; Localiza and other desks ask for the original document.
In Brazil specifically, brazil legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter. Localiza and Movida require the physical IDP plus your home licence at the counter.
Thrifty runs a global network; at its Brazil desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1968 Vienna-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Brazil drives on the right, uses the BRL, and sets a minimum driving age of 18, so an IDP is the document that removes any doubt at the counter.
What to bring to the Thrifty counter in Brazil
- Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
- Your International Driving Permit in the 1968 Vienna format.
- Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
- Local payment for the BRL deposit; Brazil drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in Brazil Thrifty renters should know
- Headlights on during the day on highways.
- Zero-tolerance alcohol law (Lei Seca).
- Carry original licence + IDP — photocopies not accepted.
- Radar speed enforcement is widespread.