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World Driving Permit

🇬🇧 United Kingdom driving licence translation & IDP

1949 + 1968 IDP· Issues IDPs under both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions· Last reviewed 20 Jun 2026

Short answer

As a United Kingdom driver you can obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) under both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions, covering the widest range of countries. Carry the IDP with your original United Kingdom 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 United Kingdom licence

United Kingdom is party to both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions, so United Kingdom 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 United Kingdom drivers should carry abroad

  • Your original United Kingdom driving licence (physical card)
  • Passport with any required visa or entry stamp
  • An International Driving Permit issued in United Kingdom under both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions
  • A certified translation companion to speed up police and rental-desk checks
  • Proof of insurance valid in your destination

Translate your United Kingdom licence

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

Popular destinations for United Kingdom drivers

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

United Kingdom drivers: frequently asked questions

What do I need to drive abroad with a United Kingdom driving licence?
As a United Kingdom driver you can obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) under both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions, covering the widest range of countries. Carry the IDP with your original United Kingdom 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 United Kingdom issue?
United Kingdom issues IDPs under both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions. Your IDP must be obtained in United Kingdom 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 United Kingdom drivers?
No. A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks read your United Kingdom 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