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Thrifty · Laos

Does Thrifty require an IDP in Laos?

Yes, bring one
Laos legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter.
Get my permit for Laos All Thrifty requirements
Thrifty in Laos
Thrifty IDP policyRequired for foreign drivers
Thrifty footprintGlobal
Accepted formatLocal rules
Minimum rental age18+ (surcharge under 25)
Drives on theRight

Thrifty in Laos: 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.

Laos drives on the right; an IDP is recommended with your home licence, though recognition is inconsistent and many travellers hire drivers.

In Laos specifically, laos legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter. Vientiane desks request an IDP; carry passport and home licence too.

Thrifty runs a global network; at its Laos desks, foreign renters are asked for the Local rules-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Laos drives on the right, uses the LAK, 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 Laos

  • 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 LAK deposit; Laos drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.

Driving rules in Laos Thrifty renters should know

  • Drive on the right.
  • Helmets mandatory for motorbikes.
  • 0.05% alcohol limit.
  • Livestock and pedestrians on rural roads.

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to rent from Thrifty in Laos?
Laos legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter.
02
What documents should I bring to the Thrifty desk in Laos?
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. Laos drives on the right and the minimum rental age is typically 18+.
03
What is Thrifty's general policy on International Driving Permits?
Requires an IDP in select countries and for non-Roman-alphabet licences. Budget-friendly brand paired with Dollar in many markets.
All Thrifty countriesDriving in Laos