Moldova
International Driver's License for
Moldova
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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 Moldova?
Whether you need an International Driving Permit in Moldova 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 to drive in Moldova?
Yes. Moldova expects foreign drivers to carry an International Driver's License in addition to their valid home-country license. The IDL acts as an official translation of your domestic license, making it recognised by local authorities, police, and car rental companies. You can apply online through E-ITA and access your digital documents in minutes.
Which side of the road does Moldova drive on?
Moldova drives on the right side of the road. Roads range from reasonable main routes to rougher rural roads, and conditions can be poor after bad weather, so drive cautiously. Your IDL does not alter road conditions, but it makes your home license easy for Moldovan police to read.
What are the main traffic laws I should know when driving in Moldova?
* 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.
* Moldova has a national seat belt law — always wear a seat belt when one is available.
* Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is prohibited; a hands-free device is permitted.
* Helmets are required by law for motorcycle and scooter riders and passengers; child passengers under 12 are not allowed.
* The legal blood alcohol limit is a strict 0.03%. Do not drink and drive.
* Speed limits are generally 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas and up to 110 km/h (68 mph) on rural roads.
What is the blood alcohol limit for driving in Moldova?
Moldova enforces a low blood alcohol limit of 0.03%, stricter than in many countries, so the safest choice is not to drink at all before driving. Penalties for drink-driving can be severe. Carrying your International Driver's License with your home license keeps your paperwork in order if you are stopped.
Do car rental companies in Moldova ask for an IDL?
Rental agencies in Moldova commonly ask for an International Driver's License alongside your national license, especially since your home document may be in a script Moldovan staff cannot read. The IDL smooths the pickup process and helps at police checks. Applying ahead through E-ITA means the document is ready when you arrive.
What is an IDL/IDP and how does it work in Moldova?
An International Driver's License, also called an International Driver's Permit, is a document that translates your national license into languages recognised by Moldovan authorities. It is valid only together with your home-country license and never replaces it. Its role is to let police and rental staff read your credentials in a familiar form.
How long can I drive in Moldova on my foreign license?
Short-term visitors can generally drive in Moldova on a valid foreign license, with the International Driver's License serving as the accepted translation to present with it. Longer stays or residency may require you to follow local licensing rules. For a typical visit, keep your home license and IDL together at all times.
Can I get an International Driver's License after I arrive in Moldova?
Because the IDL is issued from your home-country license, it is best arranged before you travel to Moldova. If you are already there and realise you need one, you can still apply online through E-ITA and download your digital copy quickly rather than seeking a translation locally.
How do I apply for an International Driver's License for Moldova, and how long does it take?
The application is completed online through E-ITA. You submit your details and a copy of your valid home-country license, and your digital documents are typically ready within minutes so you can drive in Moldova without delay. See E-ITA's pricing page for current options.
Who can apply for an International Driver's License?
Anyone holding a valid national driver's license can apply for an International Driver's License to drive in Moldova. The IDL translates and accompanies your license — it does not replace it — so your national license must stay valid throughout your trip. The whole application is handled online with E-ITA.
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 Moldova?
Apply in about 2 minutes — digital delivery in 8, printed booklet shipped worldwide.
