🇳🇿 Do you need an IDP to drive in New Zealand?

IDP recommended· no specific convention· Last reviewed 17 Jun 2026

Short answer

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

Driving in New Zealand: the rule explained

New Zealand lets visitors drive on a current, valid overseas licence for up to 18 months (12 months for motorcycle/truck classes) from their most recent arrival. If the licence is not in English, the law requires you to carry either an accredited English translation or an International Driving Permit; an IDP is not mandatory on its own but is the simplest way to satisfy this. NZTA accepts IDPs issued under either UN convention.

Exemption: Any licence printed in English needs no translation or IDP; non-English licences need an approved translation or an IDP.

Renting a car in New Zealand

Rental firms will hire to visitors holding a current valid licence; if the licence is not in English they require an NZTA-approved translation or an IDP to accompany it.

Motorcycles & scooters: To ride a motorcycle or scooter you must hold the equivalent motorcycle class on your overseas licence; the overseas-licence allowance for motorcycles is 12 months.

What to carry when driving in New Zealand

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
Carry your physical home licence at all times alongside any translation/IDP
English-licence holders need no translation or IDP

Check your exact trip

Get a tailored answer for your licence country, dates and vehicle.

Translation companion

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

New Zealand: frequently asked questions

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

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in New Zealand, even where it is not always strictly enforced. Carry it alongside your original national licence. New Zealand lets visitors drive on a current, valid overseas licence for up to 18 months (12 months for motorcycle/truck classes) from their most recent arrival. If the licence is not in English, the law requires you to carry either an accredited English translation or an International Driving Permit; an IDP is not mandatory on its own but is the simplest way to satisfy this. NZTA accepts IDPs issued under either UN convention.

Is a translated driving licence accepted in New Zealand?

A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in New Zealand 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 New Zealand?

Rental firms will hire to visitors holding a current valid licence; if the licence is not in English they require an NZTA-approved translation or an IDP to accompany it.

Which IDP convention does New Zealand use?

New Zealand recognises IDPs issued under the no specific convention. Make sure your IDP is issued by your own country's authorised issuer under the matching convention.

Official sources

NZ Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi) — driving on NZ roads on an overseas licence

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.