Aruba
International Driver's License for
Aruba
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Apply online in 2 minutes — Digital copy in 8 minutesApply in 2 minutes — Receive in 8 minutes
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Printed booklet shipped worldwide — Free ID card includedWorldwide shipping — Free ID card included
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Valid in 175+ countries — Translated into 12 languagesValid in 175+ countries — 12 Translations
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Free replacements if lost or damagedFree replacements if lost or damaged
Do You Need an IDP in Aruba?
Whether you need an International Driving Permit in Aruba depends on who you are and how long you are staying.
Last updated:
| Driver type | IDP needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist or short-term visitor | Recommended | Strongly recommended for all visitors; often required when your license is not in the local language. |
| Rental car driver | Often required | Many rental agencies ask for an IDP alongside a foreign license at pickup. |
| Long-term resident | Not sufficient | After establishing residency you will usually need a local driver's license. |
| Local license holder traveling abroad | Recommended | Carry an IDL with your national license when driving in most foreign countries. |
Rules vary by region — see the FAQ below for local requirements and traffic laws.
Documents you need
- A valid driver's license from your home country
- A passport-style photo — a phone photo is accepted
- No driving test and no DMV visit required
You do not need to be a citizen or resident to apply.
How it works
- Complete the online application — it takes about 2 minutes
- Upload your driver's license and photo
- Receive your digital IDL in about 8 minutes; the printed booklet ships worldwide
International Driver's License Information & Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driver's License in Aruba?
For driving in Aruba, carrying an International Driver's License along with your valid home-country license is strongly recommended. Aruba drives on the right, and although this Dutch Caribbean island uses Dutch and Papiamento on official documents, an IDL provides an official translation that local authorities, police and car-rental companies can read. The IDL is always used with your original license. Apply online through E-ITA and receive your digital copy in minutes.
What is an IDP or IDL, and how does it work in Aruba?
An International Driving Permit and an International Driver's License are the same document. It translates your national license into several languages. In Aruba it is only valid when presented with your original license — it acts as the translation that lets local officials and rental staff understand a license issued abroad, rather than being a license in its own right.
How long can I drive in Aruba on my foreign license?
For tourists and short-term visitors, a valid home license paired with an IDL is the standard way to drive in Aruba. If you were to relocate to the island, you would need to look into a local license, but for a normal holiday your home license plus the IDL is the combination to carry.
What are the traffic laws for drivers in Aruba?
* People drive on the right side of the road.
* The minimum age to drive a car is 18 years old, and the minimum age to rent a car is 21 years old.
* Aruba has a national seat belt law — always wear a seat belt when one is fitted.
* Aruba prohibits mobile phone use while driving, though a hands-free device is permitted.
* Helmets are required by law for both drivers and passengers on a motorcycle or scooter, with no age restriction for child passengers as long as they wear one.
* The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Do not drink and drive.
* Maximum speeds are 30 km/h (18 mph) in urban areas and 60 km/h (37 mph) in rural areas.
What is the drink-driving limit in Aruba?
Aruba sets the legal blood alcohol limit at 0.05%, and driving over it is an offence. Given the island's compact roads and busy tourist areas, the safest approach for a visitor is to avoid alcohol entirely before driving.
How fast can I drive in Aruba?
Speed limits in Aruba are low, at around 30 km/h (18 mph) in urban and built-up areas and 60 km/h (37 mph) on rural roads. The island is small and its roads are often busy with pedestrians and other traffic, so the modest limits reflect real conditions.
Do rental companies in Aruba require an IDL?
Rental firms in Aruba generally rent to drivers aged 21 and over and will ask for a valid license. Presenting an IDL alongside your home license makes it easy for staff to confirm your details, particularly if your license is not in Dutch or English, and helps avoid delays at the counter.
Can I get an International Driver's License at the last minute for Aruba?
Yes. Rather than waiting on postal delivery, you can apply online through E-ITA and receive your documents within minutes — useful for a last-minute Aruba booking. Carry the physical booklet while driving; a digital copy is a practical fallback for a new arrival until the printed booklet is in hand.
Are helmets required for scooters in Aruba?
Yes. Aruban law requires both the driver and passenger on a motorcycle or scooter to wear a helmet, with no age restriction for child passengers as long as they wear one. Scooter rental is popular with visitors, so plan for proper helmets.
Who can apply for an IDL for Aruba?
Anyone with a valid national driver's license can apply. The IDL only translates that license, so no new driving test is required — you provide your existing license details and apply online with E-ITA in minutes.
What travelers say
Reviews from verified E-ITA customers.
“The rental agent asked for an IDP with my license. I showed the digital copy from my phone and picked up the car with no issues.”
“The digital version arrived fast and worked at the rental counter. The printed booklet took five days to arrive, which was fine for my trip.”
“Applied from the airport with urgent processing and had the PDF before boarding. Exactly what I needed for my road trip.”
Ready to drive in Aruba?
Apply in about 2 minutes — digital delivery in 8, printed booklet shipped worldwide.
