Does Thrifty require an IDP in Germany?
Thrifty in Germany: 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.
Visitors from outside the EU should carry an IDP with their licence to drive or rent in Germany.
In Germany specifically, germany legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter. Required for non-Roman-alphabet and non-EU licences at all major chains.
Thrifty runs a global network; at its Germany desks, foreign renters are asked for the Both-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Germany drives on the right, uses the EUR, 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 Germany
- Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
- Your International Driving Permit in the Both format.
- Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
- Local payment for the EUR deposit; Germany drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in Germany Thrifty renters should know
- Autobahn: keep right except to overtake; some sections have no speed limit.
- Winter tyres mandatory in wintry conditions.
- Environmental (Umweltplakette) sticker required for low-emission city zones.
- 0.05% alcohol limit; zero for drivers under 21.