Greece
International Driver's License for
Greece
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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 Greece?
Whether you need an International Driving Permit in Greece 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 Greece?
If you are a non-EU resident who wants to drive or rent a vehicle in Greece, you need an International Driving License. It translates your home-country license into Greek and other languages and must be presented alongside that valid home license.
EU-issued licenses are accepted directly, but visitors holding a license from outside the EU should carry an IDP to avoid problems with police or rental desks.
What is an IDL/IDP, and how does it work in Greece?
IDP (International Driving Permit) and IDL (International Driver's License) are interchangeable terms for the same document. In Greece it translates your native license into 12 languages, including Greek, so local police and rental agencies can read your credentials.
It is a companion to your home license, never a substitute — carry both together when driving in Greece.
What are the requirements for driving legally in Greece?
To drive in Greece you need:
1. A current home-country license in good standing, plus an International Driving Permit that translates it into Greek. Carrying both is recommended.
2. To meet the age rules: the minimum age to drive a car is 18; motorcycles under 125cc may be ridden from 16, and larger motorcycles from 18. ATV rentals, which are common in Greece, generally require you to be 18.
3. Insurance: all vehicles must carry at least third-party liability coverage.
4. To follow Greek traffic laws (summarized below).
Can I rent a car or ATV in Greece with an International Driving Permit?
Yes. Greek rental agencies expect non-EU visitors to show a valid home-country license together with an International Driving Permit. The minimum age to rent a car is generally 21. ATVs and quad bikes are popular on the Greek islands and typically require you to be at least 18 with the appropriate license category.
Make sure the rental includes at least third-party liability insurance, which is required on Greek roads.
Do I need to be a Greek citizen to apply?
No. There are no citizenship requirements to apply. Anyone who holds a valid license from their home country can complete the application by submitting a recent headshot and a copy of that license.
Does Greece recognize my International Driver's License?
Yes. Greece is one of the 175+ countries that let travelers drive legally on an International Driving License used together with their home license. For the full list, see (International Driving Permit List of Countries).
Can I exchange my International Driving Permit for a Greek license?
No. The Greek Ministry of Transport does not allow an International Driving Permit to be exchanged for a local Greek license. Your IDP is a temporary document, used alongside your existing license, that lets you rent and drive for a short visit.
If you plan to stay in Greece long-term, you will need to obtain a full Greek license, which requires passing both a written and a practical driving test.
When buying a vehicle in Greece, do I need an International Driving Permit?
No. To purchase a vehicle in Greece you will need government-issued identification such as a passport or driver's license. Your IDP lets you drive while abroad, but it is not a stand-alone document and is not valid on its own for a purchase.
What are the steps to get an International Driving License for Greece?
1. Complete the online application.
2. Upload a recent passport-style headshot and a copy of your current license.
3. Once processed, download your documents immediately; the original booklet is mailed the following day.
The whole process is completed online in just a few minutes.
How long does the application take to process?
The online application is completed in under 5 minutes. Standard processing takes about two hours, and urgent processing returns your documents in about 8 minutes. Your IDP is available as soon as it is processed, and all orders ship the next business day. See the International Driving Permit pricing page for fees and options.
Do I need both a digital and physical copy of the International Driving License in Greece?
Every processed application comes with a digital version you can view online or save to your phone. It is best to carry the physical booklet, but the digital copy is acceptable to show Greek police or rental agencies if needed — useful for travelers in transit or awaiting delivery of the original.
If you hold an E-ITA IDP and have lost your physical copy, our support team offers complimentary replacements with worldwide next-day options. If you need one urgently for a rental, choose expedited processing during the online application.
What traffic laws apply to drivers in Greece?
* People drive on the right side of the road.
* The minimum age to drive a car is 18; the minimum age to rent a car is 21.
* Greece has a national seat belt law — always wear one when available.
* Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited; a hands-free device is permitted.
* Helmets are required on motorcycles and scooters for both driver and passenger, and child passengers under 5 are not allowed.
* Legal Blood Alcohol Content limit: 0.05%. Do not drink and drive.
* Speed limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas and 90 km/h (55 mph) in rural areas.
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 Greece?
Apply in about 2 minutes — digital delivery in 8, printed booklet shipped worldwide.
