International Driving Permit: How to Get an IDP Online in the UK
Planning to drive abroad on your next holiday or business trip? An International Driving Permit (IDP) can make driving overseas much easier, particularly when local authorities or car rental companies require an international driving document alongside your UK driving licence.
If you’re searching for an International Driving Permit in the UK, this guide explains what an IDP is, when you need one, what documents you may need, and how you can apply online through E-IDP.
Important: An International Driving Permit does not replace your UK driving licence.
You must carry your valid driving licence with your IDP when driving abroad.
What Is an International Driving Permit?
An International Driving Permit, commonly abbreviated to IDP, is a document designed to help verify and translate information from your driving licence for use in other countries.
Depending on your destination and the type of licence you hold, an IDP may be required before you can legally drive or hire a vehicle overseas.
An IDP is particularly useful when travelling to countries where your UK driving licence may not be sufficient on its own or where authorities and vehicle rental companies require an international driving document.
The exact requirements depend on the country you are visiting, so it is important to check the driving rules for your destination before travelling. GOV.UK recommends checking whether you need an IDP based on the country you’re visiting and how long you will stay. (GOV.UK)
Do I Need an International Driving Permit?
Whether you need an IDP depends on several factors, including:
* Your destination country
* The type of UK driving licence you hold
* How long you intend to stay
* The local driving regulations
* The requirements of your car rental company
For example, UK photocard licence holders generally do not need an IDP to drive in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein. However, different rules can apply in other countries and to holders of older paper licences. (GOV.UK)
Before ordering an IDP, always check the current requirements for the country you are visiting.
Why Do You Need an IDP When Driving Abroad?
There are several reasons travellers choose to obtain an International Driving Permit before an overseas road trip.
1. It Can Help With Local Authorities
An IDP can help authorities understand the information shown on your driving licence, particularly where a different language or licence format is used.
2. It Can Make Car Rental Easier
Some car rental providers may ask customers to present an IDP in addition to their domestic driving licence. Checking the requirements of your rental company before travelling can help prevent problems when collecting your vehicle.
3. It Helps You Prepare for International Travel
Getting your documentation organised before departure means you can concentrate on your journey rather than trying to resolve driving-document issues after arriving at your destination.
4. It Can Be Useful Where an IDP Is Required
Some countries require an IDP for visitors who want to drive. The specific type of IDP required can vary, so check the rules for your destination before applying.
How to Get an International Driving Permit Online
If you’re looking for a convenient way to apply for an IDP online, E-IDP provides an online application process.
You can start your application through the E-IDP online application page.
The general process is:
Step 1: Check Your Destination’s Requirements
Before applying, check whether an IDP is required for the country you plan to visit.
This is an important first step because different countries can have different requirements, including which type of IDP is accepted.
Step 2: Prepare Your Driving Licence and Required Information
Make sure you have your valid UK driving licence and the information requested during the application process.
You may also need a suitable photograph and other information required to complete your application.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Visit the E-IDP application page and complete the requested information.
Apply for an International Driving Permit Online with E-IDP
The E-IDP website describes its process as an online application followed by checking the submitted information and processing approved applications. (e-idp.co.uk)
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Review your information carefully before submitting your application. Correct information can help avoid unnecessary delays.
Step 5: Receive Your IDP
E-IDP states that its service provides digital and physical IDP options, with worldwide shipping available depending on the selected package. (e-idp.co.uk)
If you need a physical document for your journey or rental company, allow enough time for delivery before your departure.
What Documents Do You Need for an IDP?
The exact requirements can vary depending on the application provider and the type of IDP required.
For a UK application, you should generally have:
* A valid full UK driving licence
* A suitable passport-style photograph
* Your personal details
* Your travel destination information
* Payment for the selected application service
Make sure your driving licence is valid before travelling. You should also carry your original driving licence with you when driving overseas.
How Long Is an International Driving Permit Valid?
The validity period depends on the type of IDP.
According to GOV.UK:
* A 1926 IDP is valid for 12 months.
* A 1949 IDP is valid for 12 months.
* A 1968 IDP can be valid for up to 3 years, or until your UK driving licence expires, whichever comes first. (GOV.UK)
Not every country accepts every type of IDP, so always confirm which document is required for your destination.
Can You Drive Abroad With Only an IDP?
No.
An International Driving Permit is not a replacement for your driving licence.
You should carry your valid UK driving licence together with your IDP when driving abroad. GOV.UK specifically advises drivers to have their driving licence with them as well as their IDP. (GOV.UK)
Think of an IDP as a supporting international document rather than a standalone driving licence.
How Much Does an International Driving Permit Cost?
The cost depends on how you obtain your IDP and which service you choose.
E-IDP is a separate online service and currently advertises different packages based on validity and delivery options. Its website lists packages including 1-year, 3-year, 5-year and 10-year options. (e-idp.co.uk)
Before purchasing any IDP service, check the requirements of your destination country and make sure the type of permit being offered is accepted there.
When Should You Apply for an International Driving Permit?
It is best not to leave your IDP application until the last minute.
Apply with enough time to:
1. Complete the application.
2. Have your information checked.
3. Receive any physical documentation.
4. Contact your rental company if you have questions.
5. Resolve any issues before travelling.
If you are travelling soon, check the available processing and delivery times before choosing your application option.
Common International Driving Permit Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Assuming You Always Need an IDP
Not every country requires an IDP for UK licence holders. Check the current rules for your destination first. (GOV.UK)
Mistake 2: Travelling Without Your UK Licence
An IDP does not replace your driving licence. Take both documents with you.
Mistake 3: Getting the Wrong Type of IDP
Different countries can require different IDP conventions. Confirm which type is accepted before applying.
Mistake 4: Ignoring Car Rental Requirements
Even if local law does not require an IDP, a rental company may have its own documentation requirements. Check directly with the company before travelling.
Mistake 5: Waiting Until the Day Before Your Flight
If you need a physical IDP, delivery takes time. Apply early enough to receive your documents before departure.
International Driving Permit for Popular Travel Destinations
The requirement for an IDP varies by country.
Popular destinations where travellers may research IDP requirements include:
* USA
* Canada
* Japan
* Thailand
* Australia
* New Zealand
* India
* South Africa
* United Arab Emirates
* Italy
* Spain
* Greece
However, requirements can change and may depend on the type of UK licence you hold and the length of your stay. Always verify the current requirements before travelling.
Apply for an International Driving Permit Online
If you have checked your destination’s requirements and decided that you need an IDP, you can use E-IDP’s online application service to submit your application.
Start your application here:
Apply for Your International Driving Permit Online
The online application is designed to make the process straightforward, allowing travellers to submit their information without having to arrange an in-person appointment with the service.
Final Thoughts
An International Driving Permit can be an important document when planning to drive overseas. Whether you’re hiring a car for a holiday, taking a road trip or travelling internationally for business, checking your destination’s driving requirements before departure can help you avoid unnecessary problems.
Remember that an IDP does not replace your UK driving licence, and you should always check the specific requirements of your destination and car rental provider.
If you need an online application option, you can apply for an International Driving Permit through E-IDP and complete the application process online.
Frequently Asked Questions About International Driving Permits
Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international driving licence?
The terms “international driving licence” and “international driver’s licence” are commonly used when people search online, but the recognised document is generally referred to as an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP supplements your domestic driving licence and does not replace it.
Can I apply for an IDP online in the UK?
There are online IDP services available, including E-IDP. However, GOV.UK’s current standard UK government guidance directs applicants to obtain an IDP in person from certain shops offering PayPoint. Always check that the document and provider you choose meet the requirements of your destination. (GOV.UK)
Do I need my UK driving licence with my IDP?
Yes. You should carry your valid UK driving licence alongside your IDP when driving abroad. (GOV.UK)
How long does an IDP last?
Validity depends on the IDP convention. Under current GOV.UK guidance, 1926 and 1949 IDPs last 12 months, while a 1968 IDP can last up to three years or until your UK driving licence expires, whichever happens first. (GOV.UK)
Where can I apply for an IDP online?
You can visit E-IDP’s online application page to view its application process and available options.
E-IDP International Driving Permit Application
