Finland
International Driver's License for
Finland
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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 Finland?
Whether you need an International Driving Permit in Finland 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 Finland?
Finland recognises the International Driver's License under international road traffic conventions, and visitors from abroad are recommended to carry one as an official translation of their home license. In Finland the IDL is used together with your valid national license to reassure police and rental agencies. Get your International Driver's License through E-ITA — apply online and receive your copy in minutes.
What is an IDL/IDP, and how does it apply in Finland?
An International Driver's License (IDL) or International Driving Permit (IDP) is a multilingual booklet that translates the details of your national license. In Finland it is only valid alongside your original license — the IDL by itself does not authorise you to drive. Carrying both together lets Finnish authorities verify your credentials easily.
Which side of the road do people drive on in Finland?
People drive on the right-hand side of the road in Finland. Daytime headlights are required year-round, and drivers should be prepared for snow, ice, and limited daylight in winter, when studded or winter tyres are commonly used.
What are the key traffic laws for drivers in Finland?
* People drive on the right side of the road.
* The minimum age to drive a car is 18 years old. The minimum age to rent a car is 20 years old.
* Finland does have a national seat belt law. We recommend always wearing a seat belt if it is available.
* Finland does have a national law prohibiting mobile phone use while driving. Using a hands-free device is permitted.
* Finland does have a national law requiring the use of helmets when on motorcycle or scooter. This applies to both drivers and passengers.
* Legal Blood Alcohol Content Level: 0.05%. Do not drink and drive.
* The maximum driving speed is 50 km/h (31 miles/hour) in urban areas and 80 km/h (49 miles/hour) in rural areas.
What is the drink-driving limit in Finland?
Finland sets its legal Blood Alcohol Content limit at 0.05%, and enforcement is strict. With winter road conditions adding risk, the safest option is to not drink at all if you intend to drive.
What are the speed limits in Finland?
The maximum driving speed in Finland is 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas and 80 km/h (49 mph) on ordinary rural roads. Motorways allow higher limits where signposted, and Finland lowers some limits seasonally in winter, so always follow the posted signs.
How old must I be to rent a car in Finland?
The minimum age to drive in Finland is 18, while rental companies require drivers to be at least 20. Drivers under 25 may face a young-driver fee, so review the rental agreement before you collect the vehicle.
Do rental desks in Finland require an International Driver's License?
Rental agencies in Finland often ask non-EU visitors for an International Driver's License alongside their home license, especially if the license is not written in the Latin alphabet. Having the IDL on hand prevents delays at pickup; without the right documents an agency may refuse to rent.
Can I get an IDL after I've arrived in Finland?
It is best to obtain your International Driver's License before travelling to Finland rather than on arrival. E-ITA's online application delivers your documents within minutes, so even a last-minute decision to drive can be handled quickly from your device.
How long does it take to apply for an IDL for Finland?
The E-ITA application takes just a few minutes to complete. You enter your details, confirm your existing license information, and your International Driver's License is made available shortly after — no appointment is needed to drive in Finland.
Who can apply for an IDL to drive in Finland?
Any holder of a valid national driver's license can apply for an IDL to use in Finland. It does not replace your home license or grant new driving rights — it translates the license you already hold so Finnish authorities can read it.
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 Finland?
Apply in about 2 minutes — digital delivery in 8, printed booklet shipped worldwide.
