🇫🇷 France driving licence translation & IDP

1968 Vienna IDP· Issues IDPs under the 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 20 Jun 2026

Short answer

France issues International Driving Permits (IDPs) under the 1968 Vienna Convention, honoured by the 80-plus countries party to it. Carry your 1968 IDP together with your original France licence. A certified translation still speeds up roadside and rental-desk checks abroad, especially in countries whose officials don't work in your licence's language.

Driving abroad with a France licence

France is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so France drivers obtain their International Driving Permit at home before travelling. The IDP is an official translation of your licence into multiple languages; it is valid only alongside the original card and only while that card remains valid. A separate certified translation companion is useful at police stops and rental desks where staff need a quick, readable copy of your licence details.

What France drivers should carry abroad

Your original France driving licence (physical card)
Passport with any required visa or entry stamp
An International Driving Permit issued in France under the 1968 Vienna Convention
A certified translation companion to speed up police and rental-desk checks
Proof of insurance valid in your destination

Translate your France licence

A certified, multi-language translation companion for your France licence — ready to carry alongside the original. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Check a specific destination

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

Popular destinations for France drivers

Do you need an IDP at your destination? Jump to the sourced country guide:

France drivers: frequently asked questions

What do I need to drive abroad with a France driving licence?

Which International Driving Permit does France issue?

France issues IDPs under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Your IDP must be obtained in France before you travel from an authorised issuer; it is a recognised translation of your licence and is always carried together with the original.

Does a certified translation replace an IDP for France drivers?

No. A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks read your France licence, but it does not replace an IDP where one is legally required. Always carry your original national licence alongside it. A certified translation still speeds up roadside and rental-desk checks abroad, especially in countries whose officials don't work in your licence's language.

Official sources

UN Treaty Collection — 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic (parties)

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? 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.