Does Thrifty require an IDP in United Kingdom?
Thrifty in United Kingdom: 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.
Most visitors can drive in the UK on a valid foreign licence for up to 12 months; an IDP helps if your licence is not in English.
In United Kingdom specifically, united Kingdom 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. An IDP is recommended for licences not printed in the Roman alphabet.
Thrifty runs a global network; at its United Kingdom desks, foreign renters are asked for the Both-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. United Kingdom drives on the left, uses the GBP, and sets a minimum driving age of 17; an IDP is still the safest way to avoid a refused booking.
What to bring to the Thrifty counter in United Kingdom
- 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 GBP deposit; United Kingdom drives on the left with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in United Kingdom Thrifty renters should know
- Drive on the left.
- Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants.
- Mobile-phone use while driving is heavily penalised.
- 0.08% alcohol limit in England/Wales; lower in Scotland.