Question 1

What is an International Driving Permit (IDP) and do I need one in the UK?

Accepted Answer

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driving licence into multiple languages. There are two valid IDP conventions: 1949 Geneva Convention IDP and 1968 Vienna Convention IDP. The specific IDP you need depends on your destination country. You do NOT need an IDP to drive in the UK if you have a valid foreign driving licence. You need an IDP only if you are driving ABROAD from the UK (e.g., in Europe, USA, India) and your UK licence is not accepted.

Question 2

Which IDP convention do I need for different countries?

Accepted Answer

Convention 1 (1949 Geneva): Required for driving in USA, Japan, Mexico, and some African and Asian countries. Convention 1968 Vienna: Required for driving in most EU countries (Austria, Germany, Italy, Spain, etc.), as well as most Eastern European and CIS countries. Some countries require BOTH. Always check the destination country's requirements — the FCDO travel advice page (gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice) lists IDP requirements. UK Post Offices issue both 1949 and 1968 IDPs.

Question 3

How do I get an IDP in the UK and how much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

UK residents can obtain an IDP from any Post Office branch that handles IDPs (most major Post Offices). Cost: £5.50 per IDP. Required: your valid UK driving licence (photocard), one passport photo, completed application form (available at the Post Office). IDPs are issued immediately — no waiting. The 1949 Geneva IDP is valid for 12 months; the 1968 Vienna IDP is valid for 3 years. You must hold a full UK licence (not provisional) to apply for an IDP.

Question 4

Can I drive in Europe with just my UK driving licence after Brexit?

Accepted Answer

Yes — for most EU/EEA countries, a valid UK photocard driving licence is sufficient and you do not need an IDP. However, some EU countries (and many non-EU countries) may require an IDP, especially if you are planning to rent a car. Car rental companies may specifically request an IDP alongside your driving licence. It is advisable to carry both a 1949 and 1968 IDP when driving extensively across Europe. Always check the specific country requirement before travel.

Question 5

How long is an IDP valid for?

Accepted Answer

The 1949 Geneva IDP is valid for 12 months from the date of issue; the 1968 Vienna IDP is valid for 3 years. However, an IDP is only valid while your underlying driving licence is valid. If your UK driving licence expires, the IDP also becomes invalid regardless of its 1-or-3-year period. Renew your driving licence before your IDP and carry both documents when driving abroad.

Question 6

Do I need an IDP to drive in India with a UK licence?

Accepted Answer

Yes. UK driving licence holders require an IDP (1949 Geneva Convention) to legally drive in India. Even with an IDP, you may only drive temporarily (as a visitor) — not if you are a long-term resident in India, in which case you must obtain an Indian driving licence. Verify with the relevant Indian state RTO (Regional Transport Office) for specifics. Tourists driving in India with an IDP must also ensure their car insurance policy covers international driving.

Feature	1949 Geneva IDP	1968 Vienna IDP
Validity	12 months	3 years
Cost (UK)	£5.50	£5.50
Where Required	USA, Japan, Mexico, India, some Africa/Asia	Most EU countries, Eastern Europe, Russia
Languages	12 languages	7 languages
Where to Buy	Post Office (most branches)	Post Office (most branches)
Requirement	Full UK driving licence	Full UK driving licence
Issued By	On the spot (immediate)	On the spot (immediate)

UK International Driving Permit 2026

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