Driving Licences and Bike Rental by Country

Where your national licence is enough, where you need an IDP, and what category gets you a bike

United Arab Emirates — IDP requiredAfghanistan — IDP requiredAlbania — IDP requiredArmenia — National licence is enoughAngola — IDP requiredAQ — No dataArgentina — IDP requiredAustria — IDP requiredAustralia — National licence is enoughAzerbaijan — National licence is enoughBosnia and Herzegovina — National licence is enoughBangladesh — IDP requiredBelgium — IDP requiredBurkina Faso — IDP requiredBulgaria — IDP requiredBurundi — IDP requiredBenin — National licence is enoughBrunei — IDP requiredBolivia — IDP requiredBrazil — IDP requiredBahamas — National licence is enoughBhutan — IDP requiredBotswana — IDP requiredBelarus — National licence is enoughBelize — IDP requiredCanada — National licence is enoughDemocratic Republic of the Congo — National licence is enoughCentral African Republic — National licence is enoughCongo — IDP requiredSwitzerland — IDP requiredCôte d'Ivoire — National licence is enoughChile — IDP requiredCameroon — IDP requiredChina — Local licence requiredColombia — IDP requiredCosta Rica — National licence is enoughCuba — National licence is enoughCyprus — IDP requiredCzech Republic — IDP requiredGermany — IDP requiredDjibouti — IDP requiredDenmark — IDP requiredDominican Republic — National licence is enoughAlgeria — IDP requiredEcuador — IDP requiredEstonia — IDP requiredEgypt — IDP requiredEH — No dataEritrea — IDP requiredSpain — IDP requiredEthiopia — National licence is enoughFinland — IDP requiredFiji — National licence is enoughFK — No dataFrance — IDP requiredGabon — IDP requiredUnited Kingdom — National licence is enoughGeorgia — National licence is enoughGhana — IDP requiredGL — No dataGambia — IDP requiredGuinea — IDP requiredEquatorial Guinea — IDP requiredGreece — IDP requiredGuatemala — IDP requiredGuinea-Bissau — IDP requiredGuyana — National licence is enoughHonduras — National licence is enoughCroatia — IDP requiredHaiti — IDP requiredHungary — IDP requiredIndonesia — IDP requiredIreland — National licence is enoughIsrael — National licence is enoughIndia — IDP requiredIraq — National licence is enoughIran — National licence is enoughIceland — IDP requiredItaly — IDP requiredJamaica — National licence is enoughJordan — IDP requiredJapan — Local licence requiredKenya — IDP requiredKyrgyzstan — National licence is enoughCambodia — IDP requiredNorth Korea — IDP requiredSouth Korea — IDP requiredKuwait — National licence is enoughKazakhstan — National licence is enoughLaos — IDP requiredLebanon — IDP requiredSri Lanka — Local licence requiredLiberia — National licence is enoughLesotho — IDP requiredLithuania — IDP requiredLuxembourg — National licence is enoughLatvia — IDP requiredLibya — IDP requiredMorocco — IDP requiredMoldova — National licence is enoughMontenegro — IDP requiredMadagascar — IDP requiredNorth Macedonia — National licence is enoughMali — IDP requiredMyanmar — National licence is enoughMongolia — National licence is enoughMauritania — IDP requiredMalawi — IDP requiredMexico — National licence is enoughMalaysia — IDP requiredMozambique — IDP requiredNamibia — National licence is enoughNC — No dataNiger — National licence is enoughNigeria — National licence is enoughNicaragua — IDP requiredNetherlands — IDP requiredNorway — IDP requiredNepal — IDP requiredNew Zealand — National licence is enoughOman — IDP requiredPanama — National licence is enoughPeru — IDP requiredPapua New Guinea — IDP requiredPhilippines — National licence is enoughPakistan — National licence is enoughPoland — IDP requiredPR — No dataPalestinian Territories — IDP requiredPortugal — IDP requiredParaguay — IDP requiredQatar — IDP requiredRomania — IDP requiredSerbia — IDP requiredRussia — National licence is enoughRwanda — IDP requiredSaudi Arabia — IDP requiredSolomon Islands — IDP requiredSudan — IDP requiredSweden — IDP requiredSlovenia — IDP requiredSlovakia — IDP requiredSierra Leone — IDP requiredSenegal — National licence is enoughSomalia — IDP requiredSuriname — IDP requiredSouth Sudan — IDP requiredEl Salvador — IDP requiredSyria — IDP requiredEswatini — IDP requiredChad — IDP requiredTF — No dataTogo — IDP requiredThailand — IDP requiredTajikistan — National licence is enoughTimor-Leste — IDP requiredTurkmenistan — National licence is enoughTunisia — National licence is enoughTurkey — National licence is enoughTrinidad and Tobago — IDP requiredTW — No dataTanzania — IDP requiredUkraine — National licence is enoughUganda — National licence is enoughUnited States — National licence is enoughUruguay — National licence is enoughUzbekistan — National licence is enoughVenezuela — IDP requiredVietnam — IDP requiredVanuatu — IDP requiredYemen — IDP requiredSouth Africa — National licence is enoughZambia — IDP requiredZimbabwe — National licence is enough
National licence is enough 62 IDP required 131 Local licence required 4
National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

Licences in English are accepted directly; others need a translation or an IDP. Traffic drives on the left.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughHelmet requiredRental from 18

National licences are accepted. Mountain roads are narrow and dangerous in winter.

National licence is enoughDrives on the left

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 21

Traffic drives on the left. Foreign licences are valid for visits up to 12 months and no IDP is needed. A 125 cc scooter needs category B plus CBT training.

National licence is enoughDrives on the left

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

National licences are accepted without an IDP. Bike rental is common, but mountain roads and local driving style demand experience.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

National licences are accepted for the length of a tourist stay.

National licence is enoughDrives on the left

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

National licences are accepted for up to a year; an IDP is desirable for rental.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 21

Traffic drives on the left. National licences in Latin script are accepted for visits; an IDP is not mandatory.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughHelmet requiredRental from 18

National licences are accepted and no IDP is required.

National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

National licences are valid for a short visit; an IDP is desirable as a translation.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

National licences are valid for up to 90 days together with your entry stamp.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

National licences are accepted for rental. Fuel and spare parts are scarce, so plan long trips with a margin.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

National licences are accepted and traffic drives on the left.

National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

National licences are accepted and an IDP is not mandatory.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

Licences in English are accepted. Traffic drives on the left and intercity gravel roads are where most crashes happen.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

Licences in English are valid for up to 12 months; others need a certified translation or an IDP. Traffic drives on the left.

National licence is enoughDrives on the left

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

National licences are valid for 90 days.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughDrives on the left

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

National licences are accepted in most states, with an IDP recommended as a translation. Motorcycles need a separate endorsement and helmet rules differ by state.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 21

National licences are valid for up to six months; an IDP is desirable but not mandatory. Scooter rental is popular at resorts.

National licence is enoughDrives on the left

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughHelmet requiredRental from 18

National licences are accepted.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

Licences in English are accepted and traffic drives on the left.

National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

National licences in Latin script are valid for the first 90 days, after which a local licence is needed. A motorcycle requires category A.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enough

The country is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a modern national licence with Latin transliteration works without an IDP. Rental desks may still ask for one — getting it is cheaper than arguing.

National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

A licence in English with a photo is accepted without an IDP. Traffic drives on the left.

National licence is enoughBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

Traffic drives on the left and national licences are accepted.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 21

An IDP is required with non-European licences and police check often.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

Rental firms ask for it at pickup and police ask for it at roadside checks.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

Rental firms ask for a deposit and a passport copy; arrange insurance separately.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredUp to 50 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A bike up to 50 cc needs no category A — that is what the whole tourist rental market runs on. Accident rates are high and travel insurance often excludes motorcycles: check your policy before you go.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

Traffic drives on the left and intercity roads are often unpaved.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

An IDP is required. Driving in Cairo is chaotic and hiring a car with a driver is often cheaper and safer.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

An IDP is required. Traffic drives on the left and is dense — not a place to learn.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 17

On Bali, police sweeps targeting tourists without category A or a helmet are routine, with on-the-spot fines. Rental shops hand scooters to anyone, but it is the rider who answers for it.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

Rental firms ask for a deposit and a passport copy; arrange insurance separately.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

An IDP is required; long stays need a local licence.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

Traffic drives on the left and intercity roads are often unpaved.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 21

Traffic drives on the left — along with Ireland and Malta, one of the few EU countries that do. EU licences are valid; with Russian ones an IDP is requested.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

120LaosLaos
IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

EU licences and IDPs are accepted; local driving is orderly but the roads are fast.

130MaliMali
IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

An IDP is required, though there is hardly anywhere to drive: most islands have no roads to speak of.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 21

Traffic drives on the left and the roads are narrow. EU licences work directly; non-European ones need an IDP.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

Rental firms ask for a deposit and a passport copy; arrange insurance separately.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

An IDP is required. Mountain roads are demanding and motorcycle rental is popular for the Annapurna routes.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

Residents need a local licence. Speeding fines are very high and fully camera-enforced.

143OmanOman
IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

An IDP is required. Roads are excellent, but desert stretches between petrol stations are long.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

148PeruPeru
IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

An IDP is required. Mountain roads are all switchbacks and night driving is a bad idea.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

Rental firms ask for a deposit and a passport copy; arrange insurance separately.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 21

An IDP is required with non-European licences.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

An IDP is required. Bike rental barely exists and car ownership is among the most expensive in the world.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

Without category A on the IDP renting a bike is illegal: insurance will not pay out after a crash and police fine riders daily on the popular routes. Helmets are compulsory, including for the passenger.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

An IDP or a local permit is required and traffic drives on the left.

174TogoTogo
IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

181ChadChad
IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 21

An IDP is required with non-European licences. Scooters are popular along the coast.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

Rental firms ask for it at pickup and police ask for it at roadside checks.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP required

The country recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention but not the Vienna one: a national licence alone is not valid and an IDP is required. Vienna-format permits are not always accepted here — check with the rental company in advance.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredDrives on the left

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

IDP requiredUp to 125 cc on category BHelmet requiredRental from 18

A 125 cc scooter needs category B with three years of experience; anything bigger needs category A. Helmets are mandatory across the EU.

IDP requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

An IDP under the 1949 or 1968 convention is required alongside your national licence.

IDP required

The country is party to neither the Vienna nor the Geneva Convention, so recognition of a foreign licence depends on local law and on the rental company. Bring an IDP: it works almost everywhere, but there is no guarantee — check with the rental firm before booking.

Local licence requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

A local driving permit is required, issued by rental firms or the police for a small fee. Traffic drives on the left.

Local licence requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredRental from 18

International permits are not recognised at all: you need a Chinese licence, and a temporary one can be issued for the length of your trip. Renting is impossible without it.

Local licence requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

A foreign licence alone is not valid: the IDP must be endorsed by the Automobile Association of Ceylon and a local permit issued. Without it insurance does not apply.

Local licence requiredBike needs category AHelmet requiredDrives on the leftRental from 18

Only the 1949-convention IDP is recognised — Russian licences do not qualify, so you need an official JAF translation or a Japanese licence. Traffic drives on the left.

Countries listed: 197

What an IDP is and when it saves you

An international driving permit is not a licence of its own but an official translation of your national one. It only works together with the original and is issued in a day.

Two conventions

There are two IDP formats: the 1968 Vienna Convention and the 1949 Geneva Convention. Which one a country recognises decides whether your permit works at all — Japan, for instance, accepts only the Geneva format.

Category A decides everything

The classic mistake on two wheels is renting a scooter on a category B licence. In Thailand, Indonesia and Bali this is the most common reason for fines, and after a crash insurance simply does not pay — neither for you nor for anyone you hit.

Up to 125 cc in Europe

In most EU countries a 125 cc scooter is available on a category B licence after three years of driving. Outside Europe that concession usually does not exist: it is category A or nothing.

Left-hand traffic

The UK, Ireland, Cyprus, Malta, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, India, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand drive on the left. On a bike this is more dangerous than in a car: your body drifts into the familiar lane at turns and junctions.

Do you need an international driving permit abroad

It depends on the country and on what your licence looks like. Modern licences with Latin transliteration are accepted in Georgia, Turkey, the USA, Mexico and most of Latin America. Across Southeast Asia, the UAE and South America an IDP is almost always required — without one renting is illegal.

Motorcycles are a separate story. Category B does not entitle you to ride a bike anywhere except Europe with its 125 cc allowance. Rental shops in Thailand and Bali hand scooters to anyone, but that is their business model, not a legal exemption: police fine the rider and insurers refuse to pay.

An IDP is issued against your national licence, lasts three years and costs very little. Getting one before the trip is cheaper than a single roadside fine.

Compiled from open sources and road authority rules. Requirements change — check with your rental company and consulate before travelling.