United Kingdom
International Driver's License for the
United Kingdom
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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 the United Kingdom?
Whether you need an International Driving Permit in the United Kingdom 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 United Kingdom?
Visitors driving in the United Kingdom should carry an International Driving Permit together with a valid home-country license. The IDP translates your native license into English and other languages so UK police and rental desks can read it, and it lets you drive and rent vehicles during your stay.
An IDP may be used for up to 12 months; if you stay longer, you will need to apply for a local UK license through the DVLA.
What is an IDP/IDL, and how does it work in the United Kingdom?
IDP (International Driving Permit) and IDL (International Driving License) are identical terms for the same booklet. In the UK it translates your home-country license into 12 languages, including English, so it can be understood at rental counters and by police.
Remember that the UK drives on the left — an important difference for visitors from right-hand-drive countries. The IDP never replaces your national license; carry both together.
What are the requirements for driving in the United Kingdom?
To drive legally in the United Kingdom you need:
1. A valid, current home-country license, plus an International Driving Permit for translation. An IDP is accepted for up to 12 months; beyond that you must apply for a local license.
2. To meet age rules: the legal driving age is 17 for cars and motorcycles, and 16 for mopeds and light quad bikes. Rental companies typically require drivers to be 21 to 25.
3. Insurance: you must have valid cover. Visitors should confirm whether their existing policy covers the UK or arrange additional insurance.
4. Following UK traffic laws (summarized below).
Can I rent a car in the United Kingdom with an International Driving Permit?
Yes. UK rental companies expect visitors to present a valid home-country license together with an International Driving Permit. The minimum rental age varies by company, generally ranging from 21 to 25, and younger drivers may pay a surcharge.
Remember that UK vehicles are right-hand drive and you drive on the left, so allow time to adjust before setting off.
Do I need to be a UK citizen to apply?
No. Anyone holding a valid driver's license is eligible to apply — UK citizenship is not required. The application involves providing a headshot (see instructions for submitting the headshot for your IDP/IDL) and uploading your current license.
Is my International Driving Permit valid in the United Kingdom?
Yes. Temporary visitors to the United Kingdom can use an International Driving Permit, which serves as a translation of their home-country license and is recognized across the UK. To view the full list of countries where it is accepted, see (International Driving Permit List of Countries).
Can my International Driving Permit be converted into a UK license?
No. An IDP is for temporary visitors and usually valid for stays under 12 months; it is not converted into a local license. If your stay is extended, you will need to obtain a UK license and meet its testing requirements. See the DVLA website for details on exchanging or applying for a British license.
Do I need an International Driving Permit to buy a vehicle in the United Kingdom?
No. Buying a vehicle does not require an IDP. The primary requirement is a valid form of identification. Your IDP lets you drive legally while abroad, but it is supplemental to another form of ID rather than a stand-alone document.
How do I get an International Driving Permit for the United Kingdom?
Visit the Online International Driver's License Application to order your IDP. The entire process takes less than 5 minutes and is completed entirely online.
How long does it take to process my International Driving Permit?
The online application takes less than 5 minutes. Standard processing is about two hours, with expedited processing available in about 8 minutes. Access to your IDP is provided after processing, and the physical booklet ships the next day. See the International Driving Permit pricing page for fees and shipping options.
Does the digital International Driving Permit provide the same authorization as the physical copy?
Every order includes a digital copy you can view online or save to your phone. When feasible, carry the physical booklet; when needed, the digital copy can be shown to UK police or rental agencies. It is often relied on by travelers who need immediate access to their IDP.
If you hold a valid E-ITA IDP and have lost your physical copy, contact our support team — free replacements ship worldwide with next-day options. If you need one to complete a rental, apply online and use urgent processing to access your digital IDP.
What traffic laws apply to drivers in the United Kingdom?
* People drive on the left side of the road across most of the UK (the British Indian Ocean Territory and Gibraltar drive on the right).
* The UK has a national seat belt law — always wear one when available.
* Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited; a hands-free device is permitted.
* Helmets are required on motorcycles and scooters for both driver and passenger.
* Legal Blood Alcohol Content limit: 0.08%. Do not drink and drive.
* Speed limits: 48 km/h (30 mph) in urban areas and 96 km/h (60 mph) in rural areas.
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 United Kingdom?
Apply in about 2 minutes — digital delivery in 8, printed booklet shipped worldwide.
