Everything you need to know about an international drivers license before renting a car in Europe; which countries require an international drivers license, how to get one and how much it costs.

Coastal road trip in Europe with scenic views, perfect for exploring by rental car

Know Before You Go!

If you’re dreaming of a European road trip, you’ve probably pictured zipping along coastal Italian roads with the wind blowing through your hair, cruising through Austrian Alps not a care in the world, or exploring the Greek islands with the freedom only a car can offer. But before you grab those rental car keys, let’s clear up an essential detail: Do you really need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for Europe?

U.S. driver’s license and International Driving Permit required for European car rentals

Countries Where You Don’t Need an International Driving Permit

The good news is that for many European destinations, your standard U.S. (or non-European) driver’s license will work just fine. France, Spain, Germany, and Portugal, for example, don’t require an IDP if you’re only planning to stay for less than 90 days. In these countries, renting a car and driving with a valid license from your home country is straightforward, with minimal paperwork involved.

Countries Where You Do Need an International Driving Permit

However, there are some important exceptions where an IDP is required for legal driving. Here are the main ones:

Greece: Greece strictly requires an IDP for foreign drivers, especially in areas popular with tourists. Rental companies in Greece may even refuse to give you a car if you can’t present an IDP along with your standard license.
Italy: Italy has specific requirements for drivers from outside the EU, and you’ll likely need an IDP to rent a car legally. Not having one could mean fines if you’re stopped by the police, so it’s best to be prepared!
Austria: Austria also requires an IDP, especially for stays longer than a few days. It’s necessary if you’re traveling in rural areas or through the Alps, where frequent check stops are common.

A few other European countries, like Hungary and Poland, also recommend having an IDP, though it’s often a gray area. To play it safe, check requirements for each country individually, as rules can change.

How to Get an International Driving Permit

Getting an IDP is easy, typically requiring a quick online form, a fee (usually around $20), and a passport-sized photo. If you’re in the U.S., AAA and AATA are the main issuers, and you can usually walk away with it the same day you apply.

Travellur's advice: do you really need one?

If you’re visiting multiple countries, it’s a good idea to err on the side of caution and get an IDP. It’s a small investment to avoid hassles with local authorities and rental agencies, especially if your travel plans are flexible. Plus, an IDP might come in handy in case of unexpected stops along the way!

U.S. driver's license and International Driving Permit (IDP) for driving in Europe

Final tips for your European trip

Check rental car policies: Some companies have stricter policies on IDPs than others, even if local law doesn’t require one.
Watch for country-specific rules: Each European country has unique driving laws, from road signs to speed limits and tolls.
Bring both licenses: Even with an IDP, you’ll still need to carry your original license, so make sure both are easily accessible.

Whether you're driving through vineyard-filled valleys or exploring seaside roads, being well-prepared can make all the difference for a smooth European adventure. Safe travels, and enjoy the freedom of exploring Europe by car!