Driving abroad with a UK license
🇬🇧 Where your license works on its own, where you need an official IDP, and where a translation helps. Last reviewed November 3, 2026.
Short answer: A UK photocard license is accepted for visits across the EU and EEA without an IDP. You need an official International Driving Permit from the Post Office for countries such as Japan, Thailand, South Korea and Indonesia (Bali). Where an IDP isn't required, a translation of your license helps rental desks and police read it, for example in Mexico, Costa Rica, Montenegro and Albania.
Where your UK license is accepted as it is
For visits with a UK photocard license (check before you go if you have an older paper license):
Canada, Ireland, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Greece, Austria, Iceland, Australia, New Zealand, Portugal, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Croatia, Slovenia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Cyprus, Belize, Jamaica, Bahamas, Barbados, Philippines, Singapore, Hong Kong, Fiji, South Africa, Kenya, Namibia
Where a translation helps
An IDP isn't usually required for short visits, but your license isn't in the local language, so a translation helps rental staff and police read it:
Mexico, Costa Rica, Montenegro, Albania, Turkey, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Panama, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Aruba, Malaysia, United Arab Emirates, Israel, Jordan, Morocco, Tanzania
Where you need an official IDP
These countries expect drivers with a UK license to carry an official International Driving Permit. A translation does not replace it.
Japan, Thailand, South Korea, Indonesia (Bali), Taiwan, India, Sri Lanka, Egypt
How to get an IDP in the United Kingdom
Get it from the Post Office. You can get an IDP over the counter at many Post Office branches. There are three types (1926, 1949 and 1968), and the country you visit decides which one you need. Be wary of websites that sell an "international driver's license": here's why.
Common questions
Where do I get an IDP in the United Kingdom?
From the Post Office. You can get an IDP over the counter at many Post Office branches. There are three types (1926, 1949 and 1968), and the country you visit decides which one you need.
Is a license translation the same as an IDP?
No. An IDP is an official document from the Post Office. A translation is a private document that helps people read your license. It doesn't replace an IDP where one is required.
How do I get my UK license translated?
Order online with instantEDP. It takes about 3 minutes, costs $19.99, and your translation arrives by email within 30 minutes.
Other license countries
- Driving abroad with a Dutch license
- Driving abroad with an Indian license
- Driving abroad with a French license
- Driving abroad with a German license
Rules change, and acceptance is up to local authorities and rental companies. Check the official rules for your destination before you travel. instantEDP is a private translation service, not an IDP issuer.