🇲🇪 Do you need an IDP to drive in Montenegro?

IDP recommended· 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 17 Jun 2026

Short answer

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Montenegro, even where it is not always strictly enforced. Carry it alongside your original national licence.

Driving in Montenegro: the rule explained

Montenegro is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention and recognises a valid foreign national licence for tourist driving. An IDP is not legally required where the licence is in Latin or Cyrillic script, but is needed if the licence uses another script. Some rental companies require an IDP for non-EU/EEA licences regardless of script.

Exemption: Latin/Cyrillic-script licences do not legally require an IDP; some rental firms still require one for non-EU/EEA drivers.

Renting a car in Montenegro

Many rental agencies list an IDP as a requirement for non-EU/EEA drivers, and smaller providers may ask for one even when not strictly enforced.

Motorcycles & scooters: Ensure the motorcycle category is endorsed on the licence and any IDP before renting.

What to carry when driving in Montenegro

Original driving license (physical card)
Passport with valid visa/entry stamp
Translation companion or certified translation of your license
Proof of insurance covering the destination
IDP recommended for non-Latin/Cyrillic-script licences

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Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Montenegro: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Montenegro?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Montenegro, even where it is not always strictly enforced. Carry it alongside your original national licence. Montenegro is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention and recognises a valid foreign national licence for tourist driving. An IDP is not legally required where the licence is in Latin or Cyrillic script, but is needed if the licence uses another script. Some rental companies require an IDP for non-EU/EEA licences regardless of script.

Is a translated driving licence accepted in Montenegro?

A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Montenegro read your licence, but it does not replace an IDP where one is legally required. Always carry your original national licence with it.

What do I need to rent a car in Montenegro?

Many rental agencies list an IDP as a requirement for non-EU/EEA drivers, and smaller providers may ask for one even when not strictly enforced.

Which IDP convention does Montenegro use?

Montenegro recognises IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Make sure your IDP is issued by your own country's authorised issuer under the matching convention.

Official sources

U.S. Department of State — Montenegro International Travel Information

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? See how to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Requirements vary by country. Carry your translation together with your original driving licence and passport; some countries require an official IDP issued by an authorised body in your country of licence. Information provided is general guidance. Always check local regulations for your destination.