"Do I need an IDP for…?" is the single most-asked question in travel-driving forums. Here's the region-by-region answer for 2026.
Europe
Non-EU licence holders should carry an IDP in Italy, Spain, Greece, Portugal, Croatia and Austria — rental desks and police both expect it. In Turkey and Albania it's expected from most foreign drivers.
Asia
The strictest region. Japan legally requires a 1949-convention IDP for most visitors — no IDP, no rental, full stop. Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia (Bali), Sri Lanka and India all check IDPs at rental desks and police stops — including for scooters.
Middle East
An IDP is expected in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman and Jordan for most visiting drivers.
The Americas
In the USA and Canada an IDP is recommended when your licence isn't in English (some states/rental firms insist). In Mexico, Brazil, Peru and Chile, carry one if your licence isn't in Spanish/Portuguese.
Africa
South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Namibia, Morocco and Egypt all expect an IDP with non-local-language licences.
The safe rule
If your licence isn't in the local language, carry an IDP. It costs little, takes minutes to get online, and removes the one document risk that can cancel your rental. Get your IDP → or browse all 65+ destination guides.
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Which countries strictly require an IDP?
Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkey, the UAE, Egypt and many more expect an IDP from drivers whose licence isn't in the local language. Requirements come from both law and rental company policy.
Do EU citizens need an IDP inside the EU?
Inside the EU/EEA, an EU licence is valid everywhere. An IDP becomes relevant when driving outside the EU — for example in Turkey, the UAE, Japan or the USA — or for non-EU licence holders visiting Europe.
Is an IDP valid worldwide?
The IDP is recognized in 175+ countries under the UN road traffic conventions. It's valid only together with your national licence.