Does Thrifty require an IDP in Nepal?
Thrifty in Nepal: 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.
Nepal drives on the left through Himalayan terrain; an IDP is required for foreign drivers, and mountain roads demand caution.
In Nepal specifically, nepal legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter. Kathmandu desks request an IDP; many travellers hire a car with a driver.
Thrifty runs a global network; at its Nepal desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Nepal drives on the left, uses the NPR, 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 Nepal
- 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 NPR deposit; Nepal drives on the left with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in Nepal Thrifty renters should know
- Drive on the left.
- Steep, narrow mountain roads.
- Zero-tolerance alcohol policy.
- Carry passport, IDP and home licence.