Driver's license translation: when you need one and how it works
A plain-English guide for travelers driving abroad.
Short answer: A driver's license translation shows the details on your license in other languages, so rental staff and police abroad can read them. It helps most where your license isn't in the local language and an official IDP isn't legally required.
What a license translation does
Rental desks and police abroad need to read your name, license number, the vehicles you're allowed to drive and when your license expires. If your license is in English and they work in Spanish, Greek or Thai, that's hard. A translation puts those details side by side in several languages, so anyone can check them quickly.
When a translation helps
- Your license isn't in the local language.
- The country doesn't legally require an official IDP for short visits.
- You want something extra to show at the rental desk or a police check.
Popular destinations where a translation helps: Mexico, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Germany, Costa Rica, Portugal, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland.
When you need an official IDP instead
Some countries require an official International Driving Permit by law for many visitors: Italy, Spain and Greece for licenses from outside the EU, and Japan and Thailand for most foreign licenses. A translation doesn't replace it. You get an IDP from the authorized issuer in your home country before you travel.
How to get your translation with instantEDP
- Fill in a short form and upload a photo of your license. It takes about 3 minutes.
- We set out your license details in multiple languages.
- Your translation arrives by email within 30 minutes. Save it to your phone or print it.
Price: $19.99, one-time. Order your translation.
Common questions
Is a license translation the same as an IDP?
No. An International Driving Permit is an official document from an authorized issuer in your home country. A translation is a private document that helps people read your license. It does not replace an IDP where one is legally required.
How do I get my license translated?
With instantEDP you fill in a short online form and upload a photo of your license. Your translation arrives by email within 30 minutes, for $19.99.
What does the translation include?
The key details from your license, such as your name, date and place of birth, license number, vehicle categories and expiry date, set out in multiple languages.
Do I still need to carry my license?
Yes. A translation only works alongside your valid driver's license. Carry both, plus your passport.