Solomon Islands
International Driver's License for the
Solomon Islands
-
Apply online in 2 minutes — Digital copy in 8 minutesApply in 2 minutes — Receive in 8 minutes
-
Printed booklet shipped worldwide — Free ID card includedWorldwide shipping — Free ID card included
-
Valid in 175+ countries — Translated into 12 languagesValid in 175+ countries — 12 Translations
-
Free replacements if lost or damagedFree replacements if lost or damaged
Do You Need an IDP in the Solomon Islands?
Whether you need an International Driving Permit in the Solomon Islands 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 in the Solomon Islands?
For visitors to the Solomon Islands, an International Driving Permit (IDP/IDL) is recommended. It accompanies your valid home license and translates it into several languages, helping local officials and rental staff read your details. The IDP is a companion to your national license, never a replacement, so carry both.
Which side of the road do the Solomon Islands use?
The Solomon Islands drive on the left-hand side of the road. Drivers used to right-hand traffic should be especially careful at junctions, roundabouts and when overtaking. The IDP only translates your license; the left-side rules of the Solomon Islands still apply to you.
What is an International Driving Permit, exactly?
For the Solomon Islands, an IDP is a booklet that renders the details of your existing driver's license into multiple languages. It is an official translation you present together with your home license, not a licence in its own right.
Can I hire a car in the Solomon Islands with an IDP?
Hiring a vehicle in the Solomon Islands is normally done on your valid home license, and an IDP carried with it helps staff confirm a permit written in another language or alphabet. Because roads and vehicle conditions vary between islands, confirm terms, insurance and age limits with your rental provider first.
How long can I drive in the Solomon Islands on a foreign license?
Short-term visitors to the Solomon Islands generally drive on a valid foreign license, ideally paired with an IDP, for the length of a typical tourist visit. For a longer stay, ask the local licensing office whether a local license becomes necessary.
Who is eligible to apply for an IDP for the Solomon Islands?
Any holder of a valid home-country driver's license who is travelling to the Solomon Islands can apply. The IDP is issued from that existing license, so it must be current; the permit simply translates it for use in the Solomon Islands.
How do I get an IDP before travelling to the Solomon Islands?
Apply online with E-ITA in a few minutes for use in the Solomon Islands by filling in the form and providing your license details. No in-person appointment is needed before you travel.
Do I need the printed IDP booklet in the Solomon Islands, or is a digital one fine?
For the Solomon Islands, carry the physical IDP booklet, as officials and rental desks usually expect to see the printed document alongside your license. A digital version is useful as a backup, but keep the printed booklet as your main document.
Can the IDP be used on its own in the Solomon Islands?
No. In the Solomon Islands the IDP is valid only when shown together with the home license it translates. By itself it conveys no permission to drive, so keep both documents with you whenever you are behind the wheel.
What does an IDP for the Solomon Islands cost?
The cost of an IDP for use in the Solomon Islands is shown on E-ITA's pricing page. Prices depend on the option you choose, so review the current details there before applying.
What should I remember when driving in the Solomon Islands?
When driving in the Solomon Islands, keep your home license, your IDP and any rental or insurance papers together. Stay on the left, watch for changing road surfaces between islands, and follow local signs and the instructions of local traffic authorities.
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 the Solomon Islands?
Apply in about 2 minutes — digital delivery in 8, printed booklet shipped worldwide.
