North Macedonia
International Driver's License for
North Macedonia
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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 North Macedonia?
Whether you need an International Driving Permit in North Macedonia 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 Driving Permit to drive in North Macedonia?
For North Macedonia an IDP is recommended for many non-European visitors. If your national license is not in a widely read Latin script, the IDP provides a recognized translation that local traffic police and rental firms can check alongside your original license. Carry both together.
Which side of the road does North Macedonia drive on?
North Macedonia drives on the right-hand side of the road. Roads range from motorways linking Skopje with other cities to winding mountain and rural routes, so conditions vary and require attention, especially in poor weather.
What is the IDP I would carry in North Macedonia?
The International Driving Permit is a multilingual booklet that translates your valid national license. In North Macedonia it is used together with your home license and is not a standalone document. Without your original license, the IDP does not authorize you to drive.
Can I rent a car in North Macedonia with a foreign license?
Rental companies in North Macedonia, common at Skopje airport and in larger towns, expect a valid home driving license and often ask for an IDP when it is not in a familiar script. Requirements such as minimum age and how long you have held your license vary by firm, so check when booking.
How long can I drive in North Macedonia on my foreign license?
Tourists generally drive in North Macedonia on a valid foreign license for the length of a short visit, with the IDP serving as its official translation. If you settle or stay long term, ask the North Macedonian authorities about exchanging for or obtaining a local license.
Who can apply for an IDP for North Macedonia?
Any holder of a valid national driver's license planning to drive in North Macedonia can apply. The IDP is linked to that license and must remain valid throughout your trip; an expired home license makes the IDP invalid on Macedonian roads.
How do I apply for an IDP before traveling to North Macedonia?
Apply online with E-ITA in a few minutes for your North Macedonia trip. You provide your valid national license details and receive the permit without visiting a licensing office. Current options are shown on E-ITA's pricing page.
Is a physical IDP or a digital version better for North Macedonia?
In North Macedonia the physical IDP booklet is the version to present, as police and rental staff expect a printed document they can inspect. A digital copy is a useful backup and is often accepted in practice, but it should not be your only version in the country.
Do EU or convention-based licenses need an IDP in North Macedonia?
Many European visitors drive in North Macedonia on their national license without needing a translation, so an IDP is aimed mainly at drivers whose license is in a non-Latin script or from further afield. If in doubt, an IDP alongside your license removes uncertainty at checks.
What should I carry when driving in North Macedonia?
Keep your valid home driver's license, your IDP, your passport and the car's insurance and registration papers together in North Macedonia. Because the IDP is not valid on its own, being able to show both licenses avoids delays if traffic police stop you.
What driving conditions should I expect in North Macedonia?
Driving in North Macedonia mixes modern highways with narrow mountain and village roads that can be steep, poorly lit or affected by winter weather. Standards and signage vary, so drive defensively, watch for slower local traffic, and allow extra time on rural routes.
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 North Macedonia?
Apply in about 2 minutes — digital delivery in 8, printed booklet shipped worldwide.
