Turkey
International Driver's License for
Turkey
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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 Turkey?
Whether you need an International Driving Permit in Turkey 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 Turkey?
Turkey recognizes the International Driver's License under the international road traffic conventions, and visitors from abroad are advised to carry one as an official translation of their home license. The IDL is used together with your national license rather than in place of it. You can apply online through E-ITA and access your digital documents in minutes.
What is an IDP/IDL and how does it work in Turkey?
The terms International Driver's License and International Driver's Permit both describe a booklet that translates your national license into several languages. In Turkey it must be shown alongside your original license, since it only translates your credentials and does not grant driving rights on its own.
Is an IDP required or just recommended for tourists in Turkey?
For short tourist visits Turkey generally recognizes a valid foreign license, but an International Driver's License is recommended so that traffic police and rental agencies can easily read your details. As a party to the international road traffic conventions, Turkey accepts the IDL as the standard translation to accompany your home license.
Which side of the road do you drive on in Turkey?
In Turkey you drive on the right side of the road. Drivers used to left-hand traffic should be careful at junctions and roundabouts, and remember that overtaking and priority follow right-hand driving conventions.
What are the main traffic laws in Turkey?
* People drive on the right side of the road.
* The minimum age to drive a car is 18 (16 for mopeds and light motorcycles), and the minimum age to rent a car is usually 21.
* Turkey has a national seat belt law; always wear a seat belt when one is available.
* Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited.
* Helmets are required by law for both riders and passengers on motorcycles and scooters.
* The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%; do not drink and drive.
* Typical speed limits are around 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas and up to 110 km/h (68 mph) on open roads.
What is the blood alcohol limit for driving in Turkey?
The legal blood alcohol limit in Turkey is 0.05%. Because enforcement is active, especially in cities and on holiday routes, the safest choice is to avoid alcohol entirely if you plan to drive.
Do I need an IDL to rent a car in Turkey?
Car hire companies in Turkey usually want to see your home license along with an International Driver's License, and renters generally need to be at least 21. Presenting the IDL lets staff read your license in a recognized language and keeps the rental and insurance process smooth.
Can I get an International Driver's License on arrival in Turkey?
Since an IDL translates a license issued by your own country, it is best obtained before you travel rather than after landing in Turkey. With E-ITA you can apply online in minutes and download a digital copy immediately, which is convenient for a last-minute trip.
How long does it take to get an IDL for Turkey through E-ITA?
The E-ITA application takes only a few minutes online, and you receive a digital International Driver's License right away so you are ready to drive in Turkey. A physical booklet can also be shipped to you; see E-ITA's pricing page for the details.
Who can apply for an International Driver's License for Turkey?
Anyone with a valid national driver's license can apply for an IDL to drive in Turkey. The permit only translates that existing license, so it must remain valid and be carried together with the IDL throughout your stay.
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 Turkey?
Apply in about 2 minutes — digital delivery in 8, printed booklet shipped worldwide.
