🇩🇴 Do you need an IDP to drive in Dominican Republic?

IDP recommended· 1949 Geneva Convention· Last reviewed 17 Jun 2026

Short answer

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

Driving in Dominican Republic: the rule explained

The Dominican Republic is a party to the 1949 Geneva Convention (not the 1968 Vienna Convention), so the Geneva-format IDP has treaty standing. Tourists may drive on a valid home licence for up to 90 days from arrival, and an IDP is not legally mandatory for short stays. An IDP or certified Spanish translation is strongly recommended because it renders the licence in Spanish for police checkpoints and some local rental agencies.

Renting a car in Dominican Republic

Rental requires a valid foreign licence (often held at least 90 days), passport and credit card; smaller agencies may prefer an IDP. Avoid agencies that demand to hold your passport as collateral.

Motorcycles & scooters: Ensure the motorcycle category is shown on the licence or IDP for motorcycle/scooter rentals.

What to carry when driving in Dominican Republic

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
Foreign licence valid up to 90 days from arrival; a Dominican licence is needed beyond that

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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.

Dominican Republic: frequently asked questions

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

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Dominican Republic, even where it is not always strictly enforced. Carry it alongside your original national licence. The Dominican Republic is a party to the 1949 Geneva Convention (not the 1968 Vienna Convention), so the Geneva-format IDP has treaty standing. Tourists may drive on a valid home licence for up to 90 days from arrival, and an IDP is not legally mandatory for short stays. An IDP or certified Spanish translation is strongly recommended because it renders the licence in Spanish for police checkpoints and some local rental agencies.

Is a translated driving licence accepted in Dominican Republic?

A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Dominican Republic 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 Dominican Republic?

Rental requires a valid foreign licence (often held at least 90 days), passport and credit card; smaller agencies may prefer an IDP. Avoid agencies that demand to hold your passport as collateral.

Which IDP convention does Dominican Republic use?

Dominican Republic recognises IDPs issued under the 1949 Geneva 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 — Dominican Republic travel advisory (road safety)

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.