Since Brexit, the rules around driving abroad with a UK licence have changed — and they vary depending on exactly where you're headed. Some EU countries accept your photocard licence without question, while others technically require an International Driving Permit (IDP). Get it wrong, and you could face a fine or have your hire car refused.
This guide breaks down the current rules for 2026, explains which IDP you need (there are three types), and walks you through exactly how to get one.
Your UK Licence in the EU and EEA
The good news is that most EU and EEA countries accept a valid UK photocard driving licence for short visits of up to 90 days in a 180-day period. This applies to countries including France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Greece.
However, there are important caveats. Some countries have the right to ask for an IDP even if they don't routinely enforce it. Spain is the most notable example — Spanish law technically requires visiting drivers from non-EU countries (which now includes the UK) to carry an IDP alongside their licence.
Do You Need an IDP? Country-by-Country Overview
| Country | UK Licence Accepted? | IDP Recommended? | IDP Type Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| France | Yes | Advisable | 1968 |
| Spain | Technically no | Required | 1949 |
| Germany | Yes | Advisable | 1968 |
| Italy | Yes | Advisable | 1968 |
| Portugal | Yes | Advisable | 1968 |
| Greece | Yes | Advisable | 1968 |
| Netherlands | Yes | No | 1968 if wanted |
| Iceland | Yes | Advisable | 1949 |
| Norway | Yes | Advisable | 1968 |
| Switzerland | Yes | Advisable | 1968 |
| Turkey | No | Required | 1968 |
| USA | Varies by state | Recommended | 1949 |
| Japan | No | Required (1949) | 1949 |
This table covers the most popular destinations for UK drivers. For a full country-by-country list, check the GOV.UK driving abroad page.
The Three Types of International Driving Permit
Unlike most countries, the UK issues three different types of IDP, each based on a different international convention. The one you need depends on your destination.
| IDP Type | Convention | Validity | Used For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1926 IDP | Paris Convention | 1 year | Liechtenstein, some African/Asian countries |
| 1949 IDP | Geneva Convention | 1 year | Spain, Iceland, Malta, Japan, USA, Canada, Australia |
| 1968 IDP | Vienna Convention | 3 years | Most EU countries, Norway, Turkey, Brazil, Russia |
Some destinations recognise more than one convention. In those cases, either IDP will work — but the 1968 version lasts three years, making it better value if you travel frequently.
How to Get an IDP from the Post Office
You can only get an IDP in person at a participating Post Office branch. You cannot apply online or by post. Here's what you need to bring:
- Your valid UK photocard driving licence — paper counterpart licences are not accepted on their own
- A passport-sized photograph — the Post Office may also offer a photo service
- £5.50 per IDP — you can pay by card or cash
- Know which IDP you need — check the GOV.UK website before you go
The IDP is usually issued on the spot, so you can get one the same day you need it. However, not all Post Office branches offer the service, so check availability at postoffice.co.uk before making a trip.
Driving Outside Europe
For destinations outside Europe, the rules vary significantly. In the USA, most states accept a UK licence for short visits, but an IDP is recommended as a translation document. In Japan, you need a specific 1949 IDP and it's only valid for one year from date of entry.
For countries like Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, a UK licence is generally accepted for tourists. However, if you plan to stay longer than three to six months, you'll typically need to apply for a local licence.
Need a reliable car for your road trip?
Browse verified used car listings on SortedCars.
Old-Style Paper Licences
If you still have an old-style paper driving licence (green or pink), you should seriously consider exchanging it for a photocard licence before travelling abroad. Many countries and car hire companies will not accept paper licences, and an IDP is not a substitute for a valid licence — it's a supplement.
You can exchange a paper licence for a photocard licence through the DVLA. There's no additional test required.
Car Hire Abroad: What Companies Require
Even in countries where an IDP is not legally required, some car hire companies demand one. This is particularly common in Spain, Italy, and Greece. Check your hire company's terms and conditions before travelling to avoid being turned away at the desk.
Most hire companies also require that you've held your licence for at least one year, and many set a minimum age of 21 or 25, with surcharges for younger drivers.
- Assuming your UK licence works everywhere — check each country's specific requirements
- Getting the wrong IDP type — Spain needs 1949, France needs 1968
- Forgetting your physical licence — an IDP is useless without the licence it supplements
- Not checking hire car T&Cs — some companies require an IDP even when the country doesn't
- Letting your licence expire abroad — your IDP becomes invalid if your licence expires
Final Thoughts
Post-Brexit, driving abroad with a UK licence is still straightforward in most countries — but it pays to check the specific rules for your destination. An International Driving Permit costs just £5.50 and takes minutes to obtain from the Post Office. For the peace of mind it provides, it's well worth the small investment.
Always carry both your photocard licence and your IDP together, and check your destination's requirements at GOV.UK/driving-abroad before you travel.
Rules can change at short notice. Always verify current requirements with the relevant embassy or on GOV.UK before travelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find Your Next Car on SortedCars
Browse verified listings and buy with confidence.