International Driver's License for Syria

For Syria, an International Driving Permit (IDP), sometimes called an International Driver's License, is a booklet that translates your existing national driving license into several languages. It does not replace your home license; you carry both together. It exists purely to make your credential readable to officials and others in Syria.

Syria drives on the right-hand side of the road, with the steering wheel on the left of the vehicle. If you are used to left-side driving, treat this as an important adjustment. Your IDP does not change any of these rules; it only translates your license.

Yes. In Syria, as elsewhere, the IDP is only valid alongside your original national driving license. The permit is a certified translation of that license, so carrying it without the underlying license makes it meaningless. Keep the two documents together at all times.

For Syria, the physical printed IDP booklet is what you should carry and present, since a paper document that can be inspected by hand is the safest choice where connectivity and digital verification cannot be assumed. A digital copy can serve as a practical backup, but it should not be relied on as your only version.

Anyone who already holds a valid national driving license can apply for an IDP intended for use in Syria. Because the permit only translates a license you already have, you must hold that underlying license first. The application is completed online through E-ITA.

You apply for a Syria IDP online through E-ITA in a few minutes by providing your valid national license details. There is no need to visit an office. For current costs, see E-ITA's pricing page rather than relying on figures quoted elsewhere.

In Syria, a foreign national license accompanied by an IDP is generally intended for temporary visitors rather than residents, and permitted periods for visitors vary. If you settle in Syria long term, expect that local licensing rules would eventually apply. Confirm current specifics with the relevant Syrian authorities before relying on any fixed period.

Syria has been affected by ongoing conflict and instability, and many governments advise against travel there. This page is informational and focuses only on how the IDP document works; it is not travel encouragement. Check your own government's current advisories before making any decisions.

An IDP is a time-limited document, and the version you would carry in Syria is typically valid for a limited period from its issue date. It also becomes invalid if the underlying national license expires or is withdrawn. Check the validity dates printed inside your own booklet.

No. For Syria, the IDP only reflects the vehicle categories already granted on your national license. If your home license does not cover motorcycles or larger vehicles, the translated permit will not extend those rights. It mirrors your existing entitlements exactly.

When driving in Syria you should keep your national license, your IDP, your passport or identity document, and any vehicle registration and insurance paperwork together. Because officials may not read your home language, the IDP's translation is what makes your license understandable.