Does Thrifty require an IDP in Latvia?
Thrifty in Latvia: 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.
Latvia drives on the right with year-round daytime headlights; non-EU visitors should carry an IDP with their national licence.
In Latvia specifically, latvia legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter. Riga desks request an IDP for non-EU licences.
Thrifty runs a global network; at its Latvia desks, foreign renters are asked for the Both-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Latvia 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 Latvia
- 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; Latvia drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in Latvia Thrifty renters should know
- Headlights on at all times.
- Winter tyres mandatory Dec–Feb.
- 0.05% alcohol limit; 0.02% for new drivers.
- Reflective vest and triangle required.