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World Driving Permit

🇩🇪 Germany driving licence translation & IDP

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

Short answer

Germany 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 Germany 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 Germany licence

Germany is party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so Germany 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 Germany drivers should carry abroad

  • Your original Germany driving licence (physical card)
  • Passport with any required visa or entry stamp
  • An International Driving Permit issued in Germany 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 Germany licence

A certified, multi-language translation companion for your Germany 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 Germany licence, your destination, dates and vehicle.

Popular destinations for Germany drivers

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

Germany drivers: frequently asked questions

What do I need to drive abroad with a Germany driving licence?
Germany 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 Germany 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.
Which International Driving Permit does Germany issue?
Germany issues IDPs under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Your IDP must be obtained in Germany 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 Germany drivers?
No. A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks read your Germany 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

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

Driving licence translation for other countries