Auto Europe
International Driving Licence for a Car Hire
When renting a car, it's essential to be aware of the license requirements to ensure everything goes smoothly. Most rental companies ask for a valid driver's license that you’ve held for a certain period, usually between one to two years, depending on their specific rules. If you're traveling internationally, you might also need to show an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your home country license to meet local laws. Keep in mind that some rental agencies have age restrictions, typically requiring drivers to be at least 21 years old, and there may be extra fees for those under 26. Always verify the exact requirements of the rental company you select, as they can differ widely, and make sure you have all the necessary documents ready to prevent any last-minute issues.
What is an IDP?
An International Driving Permit (IDP), also known as an International Driving Licence (IDL) is a requirement in some countries and by some rental suppliers as a complement to your valid national driving licence. For each one to be valid, they must be presented together. We highly recommend checking before you travel to a country whether you require an international driving permit to accompany your national driving licence. You should also check the rental supplier in question. An International Driving Permit is a translation of your national driving licence into various languages and was designed to facilitate the local authorities to understand your national driving licence. Although an International Driving Permit is mandatory in only a few countries, we still advise applying for and taking it with your when driving abroad.
It's important to review the full terms and conditions from your car supplier, as the requirements can vary widely among different providers. Be sure to verify if you need an international driving permit; not doing so might lead to being unable to rent a vehicle.
Frequently asked questions about International Driving Permits
In what countries are IDPS mandatory?
Only certain countries require an International Driving Permit to accompany your national driving licence. For example, the European Union (EU) - Germany, Spain, Portugal, Greece, etc - and the European Economic Area (EEA) - Iceland, Norway - do not require an International Driving Licence to be presented if the national licence is issued by another member state. However, this only Permit to certain member states and not all. The Irish National Driving Licence Service (NDLS) recommends checking with the country you are visiting to make sure an IDP isn’t required.
It is also important when hiring a car that you check the rental voucher’s terms and conditions to ascertain whether the supplier requires an IDP to be presented with your national driving licence during vehicle pick-up. If an IDP is required, then please allow plenty of time to apply, process and receive your IDP in time for your trip, otherwise you may not be allowed to collect your rental car. If in doubt, contact Auto Europe and we will investigate the matter with you.
Generally, it is never a bad idea to apply for an IDP in any case. Having this document will greatly assist you when driving in another country, with a different language, as it will minimise the chances of misunderstandings should you be involved with local officials. Allowing your IDP to be presented in various languages means that you’ll spend less time dealing with local bureaucracies and more time enjoying your trip.
Who can apply for an International Driving Permit?
Irish residents with a valid full Irish driving licence, as well as EU/EEA licence holders living in Ireland, can apply for this. However, you won't be able to obtain an international driving permit in Ireland if:
The IDP is valid only outside of Ireland and must be accompanied by the national driving licence. The IDP has a validity of one year from the date of issue.
- You haven't completed your driving test and only hold a learner permit.
- Your driving licence is set to expire in less than 6 months.
Where and how can I get an IDP?
You may apply for an International Driving Permit at the AA website by downloading the appropriate form and posting it back. With the application form, you must also enclose a copy of your current valid national driving licence (front & back), a passport sized photo signed on the back, and payment for 15€. If you do not have an Irish national driving licence, then a copy of a household bill dated within the last three months is also required. Fee payment can be done via Google Pay, Apple Pay, bank card or by cheque and postal order. Two International Driving Permits exist: the 1949 UN Convention IDP is the most common and recognised globally. And the 1926 UN Convention IDP, which is required for driving in Brazil, Iraq, Nigeria and Somalia.
What document are required in addition to the IDP when hiring a car?
If a supplier asks for an IDP for your car rental booking, make sure you have the additional documents prepared to smoothly pick up your vehicle.
- A valid and complete national driver’s license
- Credit card in the name of the primary driver
- Auto Europe voucher
What if I still have questions about an International Driving Permit?
To make your car hire pick-up experience seamless, we highly recommend checking the license requirements and age restrictions outlined in the rental company's terms and conditions while booking. You can easily access all the essential details by clicking on the blue 'Info Icon' located under 'Important Information - Driver Information.'
After having read this guide, you may still have unanswered questions or require further clarification. If this is the case, then our fully trained reservation agents are available via phone to discuss and settle any concerns you may have. With over 70 years of international car hire industry experience, we are well placed to help you be fully prepared during your trip. Driving abroad can sometimes seam daunting, but with our help you can rest assured that you’ll be fully prepared for any unexpected occurrence.
- Home
- Travel Tips
- International Driving Permit