What Is an International Driving Permit? IDP Requirements, Documents, and Cost

If you plan to rent a car during an international trip, cross a border with your personal vehicle, or drive on roads in another country, you may need an International Driving Permit. Commonly known as an IDP, this document allows eligible drivers to temporarily and legally drive in many countries while carrying their valid Iranian driving license.
An International Driving Permit is not an independent driving license. Instead, it is a standardized, multilingual translation of the information contained in your national driving license. Police officers, car rental companies, insurance providers, and other authorities in the destination country can use this document to understand the driver’s identity, license category, validity, and restrictions.
Many travelers assume that carrying an Iranian driving license is enough to drive abroad. However, in many countries, foreign drivers may be asked to present an IDP in addition to their original national license. Car rental companies may also require this document before handing over a vehicle.
For this reason, it is important to check the driving regulations of your destination before traveling and apply for an International Driving Permit when necessary.
In this guide, we explain what an International Driving Permit is, how it is used, which documents are required, how much it may cost, how long it remains valid, and how you can apply for it online or in person.

What Is an International Driving Permit?

An International Driving Permit, officially abbreviated as IDP, is a multilingual document that converts the information on a national driving license into a standardized format that can be understood by authorities in other countries.
Some websites and advertisements use the term International Driving License, abbreviated as IDL. However, the more accurate and internationally recognized term is International Driving Permit or IDP.
The information printed in an IDP is usually translated into several widely used languages. This allows traffic police, insurance companies, car rental agencies, and other authorities to verify the holder’s driving qualifications without requiring a separate translator.
International Driving Permits are issued according to international road traffic conventions. In Iran, the main authority responsible for issuing this document is the Touring and Automobile Club of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
One of the most important facts about an IDP is that it is not normally valid on its own. When driving abroad, you must also carry your original and valid Iranian driving license. If you cannot present your national license, the police or car rental company may refuse to recognize the IDP.

What Is an International Driving Permit Used For?

The main purpose of an International Driving Permit is to make temporary driving possible for tourists, business travelers, and other individuals staying in a foreign country for a limited period.
The most important uses of an IDP include the following.

• Renting a Car Abroad

Many car rental companies require foreign customers to present both a national driving license and an International Driving Permit before renting a vehicle.
Even in countries where the law does not explicitly require an IDP, a rental company may still request one under its own internal policies.
Carrying an IDP can make it easier and faster for the company to verify your identity, driving qualifications, and permitted vehicle category.

• Driving Legally During Tourist Trips

In many countries, tourists are allowed to drive with a foreign license only for a limited period. An IDP helps demonstrate that the driver holds a legally issued license in their home country.
However, the length of time you are allowed to drive with a foreign license differs from one country to another.
For example, your IDP may remain valid for three years, while the destination country may allow foreign visitors to use it for only three or six months after arrival.

• Traveling Abroad With a Personal Vehicle

Travelers who plan to leave Iran with their own vehicle generally need additional documents besides an International Driving Permit.

These documents may include:

1. Temporary vehicle export or customs authorization
2. Transit license plates
3. International vehicle insurance
4. Vehicle ownership documents
5. Carnet de Passages in certain countries or routes

The IDP is one of the documents that may be checked when crossing a border or during a roadside inspection in the destination country.

• Simplifying Insurance and Legal Procedures

If an accident or vehicle-related incident occurs abroad, the insurance company may review the driver’s documents before accepting a claim.
Carrying both a valid Iranian driving license and an International Driving Permit can help prove that you were legally authorized to drive the vehicle.
Driving without the required documents may cause difficulties when claiming compensation. Before accepting a rental car, carefully read the insurance policy and confirm which driving documents are required.

• Communicating More Easily With the Police

Iranian driving licenses are mainly written in Persian, which may not be understood by police officers in other countries.
An IDP translates the essential information into several languages, making it easier for foreign authorities to check your license and communicate with you.

Does an International Driving Permit Replace an Iranian Driving License?

No. An International Driving Permit does not replace your Iranian driving license.

An IDP is generally valid only when it is presented together with the original national driving license. Therefore, when driving abroad, you should carry the following documents:

• Your original and valid Iranian driving license
• A valid International Driving Permit
• Your passport
• Vehicle documents or the car rental agreement
• A valid insurance policy
• Visa or residency documents when required

An International Driving Permit also does not replace a passport, national identity card, residence permit, or other official identification document.
It cannot normally be used as an independent form of identification for banking, immigration, hotel check-in, or border-crossing procedures.

Differences Between a National Driving License and an International Driving Permit

A national driving license and an International Driving Permit are both related to driving, but they have different purposes, areas of validity, and legal functions.

Feature	Iranian Driving License	International Driving Permit
Area of use	Inside Iran	Countries that recognize the applicable IDP
Language	Persian	Multilingual
Independent validity	Yes	Usually valid only with the national license
Renewal	According to traffic police regulations	Usually requires a new application
Issuing authority	Iranian Traffic Police	Touring and Automobile Club
Main purpose	Driving inside Iran	Temporary driving abroad

An International Driving Permit is essentially a translated and standardized version of the information contained in your national license.
Therefore, if your Iranian license has expired, been suspended, or is otherwise invalid, the IDP cannot independently give you the legal right to drive.

Types of International Driving Permits

International Driving Permits are issued under different international road traffic conventions.

The appropriate type may depend on:

1. The destination country
2. The length of your trip
3. The validity remaining on your Iranian driving license
4. The convention recognized by the destination

• One-Year International Driving Permit

The one-year IDP is one of the most commonly issued versions. It is generally associated with the 1949 Geneva Convention and remains valid for one year from its date of issue.

To obtain this version, your Iranian driving license must have the minimum remaining validity required by the issuing authority.

Before applying, check the expiration date of your national license.

A one-year IDP may be suitable for:

1. Short international trips
2. Tourist travel
3. Occasional car rentals
4. Travelers who plan to drive abroad only once or a few times during the year

• Three-Year International Driving Permit

A three-year IDP is commonly associated with the 1968 Vienna Convention. To obtain it, the applicant’s national driving license must have sufficient remaining validity.
It is important to understand that a three-year IDP does not automatically allow you to drive in every country for three uninterrupted years.
The destination country’s residency and driving laws remain the main determining factors.
For example, a country may allow tourists to drive with a foreign license for only six months after arrival. After that period, you may have to apply for a local license or convert your existing license, even if your IDP has not yet expired.

• Permits Based on the 1926 or 1929 Conventions

Some countries may continue to recognize older formats of International Driving Permits based on earlier road traffic conventions.
The number of countries using these formats is more limited, and their rules may change over time.
When applying, you should provide the name of your destination country or countries so the issuing authority can determine which type of IDP is appropriate.
Choosing the wrong version may result in your permit not being accepted at your destination.

What Is the Difference Between an Official Driving License Translation and an IDP?

An official translation of a driving license and an International Driving Permit are not the same document.
An official translation is prepared by an authorized translation office and may also need certification from legal authorities such as the Ministry of Justice or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

It is commonly used for:

1. Immigration procedures
2. Converting an Iranian license into a local license
3. Registering for driving courses
4. Demonstrating driving experience
5. Administrative and residency applications

An IDP, on the other hand, is specifically intended for temporary driving during an international trip.

Some countries accept an official translation together with the original license, while others ask for an IDP.

A rental company may also impose stricter requirements than the general laws of the country.

Before traveling, check the following three sources:

1. The official driving regulations of the destination country
2. The requirements of the car rental company
3. The terms of the insurance provider

In Which Countries Is an International Driving Permit Valid?

International Driving Permits are recognized in many countries, but the accepted format, allowed period of use, and local requirements are not identical everywhere.

Countries such as the following may recognize or recommend an IDP according to their local regulations:

• Turkey
• United Arab Emirates
• Germany
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• The Netherlands
• Belgium
• Portugal
• Austria
• Australia
• Japan
• Malaysia
• Thailand
• Qatar
• Oman
• Armenia
• Georgia
• Certain states in the United States
• Certain provinces in Canada

The presence of a country on a general list of IDP destinations does not necessarily mean that every type of International Driving Permit will be accepted there.
Some countries recognize only permits issued under a specific convention.
Car rental policies may also differ from national laws. A country may legally accept a national license with an official translation, while a rental company may still refuse to provide a vehicle unless an IDP is presented.

IDP Rules in Popular Travel Destinations

• Turkey

Turkey is one of the most popular destinations for Iranian travelers who plan to travel by road or rent a car.

Carrying an International Driving Permit can help prevent problems when renting a vehicle or presenting documents to the police.

Travelers entering Turkey with a personal vehicle should also carry:

1. Vehicle registration documents
2. Temporary export or customs authorization
3. Valid insurance
4. Any additional border documents required for the vehicle

• United Arab Emirates

Tourists planning to rent a vehicle in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other cities in the United Arab Emirates may need to present both a valid national license and an internationally recognized driving document.

Rental requirements can depend on:

1. The driver’s nationality
2. Visa type
3. Residency status
4. The rental company’s internal policies
5. The insurance provider

Before reserving a car, contact the rental company and confirm the exact documents it requires.

• Germany

People holding a non-European driving license may need an IDP or an official translation for short-term driving in Germany.
Individuals who establish normal residency in Germany are generally allowed to use a foreign license only for a limited period. After that, they may need to convert their license or apply for a German driving license.

• France and Italy

In France and Italy, carrying an International Driving Permit or an accepted translation together with the original Iranian license may be recommended or required, depending on the traveler’s circumstances.
Car rental companies may also include an IDP among their vehicle collection requirements.

• United States

Driving laws in the United States are regulated at the state level.
One state may allow tourists to drive with a foreign national license, while another state may recommend or require an International Driving Permit.
Before traveling, check:

1. The rules of the Department of Motor Vehicles in the destination state
2. The rental company’s documentation requirements
3. The insurance provider’s conditions

• Canada

Rules for using a foreign driving license in Canada vary by province and territory.

The allowed period and the need for an IDP may differ between provinces such as:

1. Ontario
2. British Columbia
3. Quebec
4. Alberta

Check the official rules of the province in which you plan to drive.

• Japan

Japan has strict requirements regarding foreign driving licenses and International Driving Permits.
The international convention under which the IDP was issued is especially important.
Before traveling to Japan, confirm that your permit format is accepted under Japanese law.

How Long Is an International Driving Permit Valid?

International Driving Permits are commonly issued with a validity period of one or three years.
The validity period begins on the date of issue, not on the date you arrive in the destination country.
For example, if you obtain a one-year IDP several months before your trip, part of its validity will already have passed by the time your journey begins.
It is therefore advisable to plan the application date according to your travel schedule.
An IDP is generally not renewed in the same way as a national driving license. After it expires, you usually need to submit a new application and receive a newly issued permit.
Your national driving license must also remain valid when you apply again.
The expiration date printed on the IDP is different from the maximum period during which a foreign visitor may legally drive in a particular country.
Local laws may restrict foreign-license driving to a shorter period.

Who Can Apply for an International Driving Permit?

Applicants must meet the basic requirements established by the issuing authority.

Holders of a Valid Iranian Driving License

The applicant must have a valid Iranian driving license for a car, motorcycle, or another applicable vehicle category.

The license must not be:

• Expired

• Suspended

• Confiscated

• Legally invalid

The vehicle category shown on the International Driving Permit is based on the categories included in the national license.

An IDP does not authorize you to drive a type of vehicle that is not covered by your original license.

Applicants Who Meet the Minimum Driving Age

The applicant must have reached the legal driving age.
However, car rental companies may impose higher minimum age requirements.
For example, some companies do not rent vehicles to people under the age of 21 or 25. Others may charge an additional young-driver fee.

Holders of a Valid Passport

The English information printed on the IDP must match the applicant’s passport details.
Differences in the spelling of the first name, last name, date of birth, or other personal information may cause problems when renting a car or presenting documents to the police.

Documents Required for an International Driving Permit

The required documents may vary depending on the type of application and current regulations, but applicants are generally asked to provide the following.

Original Iranian Driving License

The national driving license must be valid and have the minimum remaining validity required for the selected type of IDP.
For a three-year permit, the national license must also have sufficient validity remaining.

Valid Passport

The original passport or a copy of its identification page may be required to register the applicant’s English details correctly.
The spelling of the applicant’s name on the application must match the passport exactly.

Passport-Style Photograph

A recent, clear, full-face color photograph with a light or white background is normally required.
The photograph must clearly show the applicant’s face and comply with the issuing authority’s standards.

Identification Documents

A copy of the national identification card or other identity documents may be requested to verify and register the applicant’s information.

Previous International Driving Permit

If you already have an IDP, you may be asked to submit it when applying again, especially if it still has remaining validity.

Completed Application Form

The Persian and English application forms must be completed accurately.
Even a small difference between the application form, passport, and driving license may delay the process.

How to Obtain an International Driving Permit

Applicants can generally apply for an IDP through one of two methods:

• In person
• Online

Applying for an IDP in Person

For an in-person application, you must visit an authorized office or branch of the Touring and Automobile Club.

The general process includes:

1. Preparing your driving license, passport, photograph, and identification documents
2. Visiting an authorized center
3. Completing the Persian and English application forms
4. Selecting the correct type of IDP for the destination
5. Paying the issuance fee
6. Having the documents reviewed by an officer
7. Receiving the International Driving Permit

One advantage of applying in person is that your documents can be checked directly.
You can also ask for guidance about the appropriate type of IDP for your destination.
In many offices, the permit may be issued within a short period if all documents are complete and correct.

Applying for an IDP Online

For an online application, you must use the official website of the authorized issuing organization.
In this method, documents are uploaded electronically and the required fee is paid online.
The general online process includes:

• Visiting the official IDP application website
• Creating an account or entering personal details
• Selecting the required type of permit
• Entering information in Persian and English
• Uploading images of the driving license, passport, and photograph
• Providing a postal delivery address
• Paying the fee online
• Tracking the application
• Receiving the document by post

Online applications generally take longer than in-person applications because document review, printing, packaging, and postal delivery must be completed.
Do not leave the application until the final days before your trip.

How Much Does an International Driving Permit Cost?

The cost of obtaining an International Driving Permit is not always fixed and may change according to several factors.

The main factors that can affect the total cost include:

• One-year or three-year validity
• The convention required by the destination country
• Postal delivery charges
• Online or in-person application
• Photograph and document-copying expenses
• Annual fees set by the issuing authority

Because fees may change periodically, check the latest amount through the official application system or an authorized branch.
Avoid purchasing an International Driving Permit from unauthorized websites, social media pages, or unofficial intermediaries.
Some providers issue documents that look similar to an IDP but may have no legal validity in the destination country.
The legitimacy of the issuing authority is more important than a lower price.

How Long Does It Take to Receive an IDP?

The processing time depends on the application method.

For an in-person application, the document may be issued on the same day or within a short period if all documents are complete.

For an online application, additional time is needed for:

• Document verification
• Printing
• Packaging
• Postal delivery

The process may be delayed by:

• An incorrect postal address
• Unclear document images
• Differences between Persian and English information
• Insufficient validity of the national driving license
• Missing application details

It is advisable to check the destination requirements and apply several weeks before departure.

Limitations of an International Driving Permit

Although an IDP is useful, it has several important limitations.

Limited Validity Period

An International Driving Permit is not permanent.

Once it expires, it can no longer be legally used. Driving with an expired IDP may be treated in the same way as driving without valid authorization.

Dependence on the National Driving License

If your Iranian driving license expires, is suspended, or becomes legally invalid, the IDP will effectively lose its validity as well.

Different Rules in Different Countries

Having an IDP does not mean you are automatically allowed to drive in every country under every circumstance.

The following factors remain important:

• The applicable international convention
• Length of stay
• Type of visa
• Residency status
• Local traffic laws
• Vehicle category
• Rental company requirements

Not Intended for Permanent Residency

An International Driving Permit is mainly designed for tourism and temporary stays.

People who obtain long-term, employment, student, or permanent residency are normally required to obtain a local driving license after a certain period.

Car Rental Restrictions

A car rental company may impose additional conditions besides requiring an IDP.

These may include:

• Minimum driver age
• Minimum driving experience
• International credit card
• Security deposit
• Additional insurance
• Restrictions on crossing borders
• Young-driver charges

Not Valid as Independent Identification

An IDP does not replace a passport, residence permit, national identification card, or other official identity document.
Its main purpose is to translate and confirm the information contained in a national driving license.

Important Tips for Renting a Car Abroad

Obtaining an International Driving Permit is only one part of renting a vehicle abroad.

Before making a reservation or collecting the car, check the following:

• Minimum driver age
• Security deposit amount
• Credit card requirements
• Basic and additional insurance coverage
• Mileage limits
• Cross-border travel restrictions
• Additional driver charges
• Fuel policy
• Traffic fine procedures
• Road toll charges
• Vehicle pickup and return times
• Pickup and return locations

When collecting the vehicle, take photos or videos of:

• The exterior body
• Windows
• Wheels and tires
• Interior
• Dashboard
• Fuel level
• Existing scratches or damage

Make sure every existing defect is written into the rental agreement so you are not held responsible for previous damage when returning the vehicle.

Which Documents Are Required for Traveling Abroad With a Personal Car?

If you plan to cross a border with your own vehicle, an International Driving Permit alone is not enough.

You may also need:

• A valid passport and visa
• International Driving Permit
• Vehicle registration or ownership documents
• Temporary vehicle export authorization
• Transit license plates
• International vehicle insurance
• Permission from the owner if the driver is not the registered owner
• Carnet de Passages for certain countries or routes
• Required vehicle stickers or identification signs

Vehicle entry regulations vary significantly between countries.
Before departure, check the requirements of every border and country included in your route.

Common Mistakes When Applying for or Using an IDP

One common mistake is applying for an International Driving Permit without checking which international convention is recognized by the destination country.
Your document may be valid in general but still not be accepted in that particular destination.
Another mistake is failing to carry the original Iranian driving license.
An IDP alone is usually not enough to prove that you are legally licensed to drive.
Some travelers also assume that a three-year IDP allows them to drive in another country continuously for three years.
In reality, the permitted period is determined by local immigration and driving regulations.
Other common mistakes include:

• Purchasing a document from an unauthorized provider
• Entering the English name incorrectly
• Applying too close to the departure date
• Failing to check rental company requirements
• Ignoring the remaining validity of the national license
• Assuming an IDP replaces insurance or vehicle documents

Conclusion

An International Driving Permit, or IDP, is one of the most important documents for travelers who plan to rent a car abroad, cross international borders with a personal vehicle, or drive temporarily in another country.
It provides a standardized, multilingual translation of an Iranian driving license and helps police officers, insurance companies, and car rental agencies verify the driver’s identity, license category, and legal driving status.
However, an IDP is not normally valid by itself. It must be carried together with the original and valid Iranian driving license.
Before applying, check the destination country’s accepted convention, the maximum period allowed for driving with a foreign license, and the documentation requirements of the rental company and insurance provider.
Always obtain the permit from an official or authorized organization and avoid purchasing unofficial documents that may not have legal value.
In addition to preparing your driving license, insurance policy, vehicle documents, and travel paperwork, it is also important to plan how you will stay connected during the trip. Reliable internet and phone access can help with navigation, car rental communication, online bookings, account verification, and emergency services.For Persian-speaking travelers who need access to international apps or verification services, researching options for buy a virtual number may also be useful before departure. Combining reliable communication tools with valid travel and driving documents can make an international journey safer, easier, and more convenient.