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What are International Driving Permits (IDP)?



There's been lots of talk about driving in Europe after Brexit, if the UK leaves without a deal on March 29th 2019 it appears drivers will now likely require a International Driving Permit to drive in Europe.

We know what you are thinking - "What is an IDP?" and "How do I get one?" to help we've looked into and summarised the key points below.

What is an IDP?

An International Driving Permit is a permit that allows you to drive in countries where a UK licence alone is not sufficient. These countries include the USA, Brazil and Japan, among others.

How to obtain an International driving permit (IDP)

You can obtain a IDP from your local Post Office and apply over the counter.

Check which IDP you need

There are 3 types of IDP, to check which IDP you need use the royal mails simple IDP checker tool here:

But in summary you'll need a:

  • 1949 permit to drive in Spain, Iceland, Malta and Cyprus

  • 1968 permit to drive in all other EU countries, plus Norway and Switzerland

  • 1926 permit to drive in Liechtenstein

What you’ll need to apply

  • A full valid UK driving licence – photo card or an older paper license

  • A passport size photo (one for each IDP - remember travelling to places like Spain & France require 2 separate IDP’s)

  • The £5.50 application fee

  • If presenting an older paper licence your original valid passport as proof of identification is required

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