Cross-border route
France Italy
France 
ItalyDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from France into Italy, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Italy expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the Both format. Both countries drive on the right, so there is no change of driving side at the border. The Mont Blanc Tunnel links Chamonix with Courmayeur; the Fréjus Tunnel and the coastal A8/A10 at Ventimiglia are also major routes.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromFrance
ToItaly
IDP in ItalyRequired
Accepted formatBoth
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in ItalyEUR
France → Italy
Crossing the border
The Mont Blanc Tunnel links Chamonix with Courmayeur; the Fréjus Tunnel and the coastal A8/A10 at Ventimiglia are also major routes.
Driving rules in Italy
- ZTL (limited-traffic) zones in city centres are camera-enforced — heavy fines.
- Headlights required on motorways at all times.
- Carry a reflective jacket and warning triangle.
- 0.05% alcohol limit; zero for drivers under 21.
What to see when you arrive in Italy
- the Colosseum in Rome
- the canals of Venice
- Florence's Duomo and Uffizi
- the Amalfi Coast
- the ruins of Pompeii
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from France to Italy?
Yes — Italy requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Italy recognises the Both format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between France and Italy?
No. Both France and Italy drive on the right.
03
How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?
International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.
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