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Thrifty · North Korea

Does Thrifty require an IDP in North Korea?

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North Korea lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but Thrifty still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
Get my permit for North Korea All Thrifty requirements
Thrifty in North Korea
Thrifty IDP policyRequired for non-Roman-alphabet licences
Thrifty footprintGlobal
Accepted formatLocal rules
Minimum rental age18+ (surcharge under 25)
Drives on theRight

Thrifty in North Korea: 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.

North Korea drives on the right, but independent driving by tourists is not permitted; all travel is on guided, state-arranged transport.

In North Korea specifically, north Korea lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but Thrifty still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter. No tourist car rental exists; transport is state-controlled.

Thrifty runs a global network; at its North Korea desks, foreign renters are asked for the Local rules-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. North Korea drives on the right, uses the KPW, and sets a minimum driving age of 18; an IDP is still the safest way to avoid a refused booking.

What to bring to the Thrifty counter in North Korea

  • 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 KPW deposit; North Korea drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.

Driving rules in North Korea Thrifty renters should know

  • Drive on the right (not applicable to tourists).
  • Independent driving is prohibited.
  • All movement is guided.
  • Roads outside Pyongyang are sparse.

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to rent from Thrifty in North Korea?
North Korea lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but Thrifty still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
02
What documents should I bring to the Thrifty desk in North Korea?
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. North Korea 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 North Korea