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World Driving Permit

🇪🇬 Do you need an IDP to drive in Egypt?

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

Short answer

Yes — to drive in Egypt you generally need an International Driving Permit (IDP), carried together with your original national driving licence. The IDP is a recognised translation of your licence; it never replaces the licence itself.

Driving in Egypt: the rule explained

Egypt is a 1949 Geneva Convention country. UK FCDO advises foreign visitors carry the 1949 IDP together with their home licence and may drive for up to 6 months before an Egyptian licence is required. The Automobile & Touring Club of Egypt is the only body authorised to issue IDPs, and visitors cannot obtain one inside Egypt, so it must be arranged before travel.

Renting a car in Egypt

Rental companies typically require both your national licence and a 1949 IDP, especially if your licence is not in English or lacks a photo.

Motorcycles & scooters: The same IDP plus national licence requirement applies to renting and riding motorcycles.

What to carry when driving in Egypt

  • 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 the 1949 IDP alongside your home licence at all times
  • Obtain the IDP in your home country before arrival

Check your exact trip

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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.

Egypt: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Egypt?
Yes — to drive in Egypt you generally need an International Driving Permit (IDP), carried together with your original national driving licence. The IDP is a recognised translation of your licence; it never replaces the licence itself. Egypt is a 1949 Geneva Convention country. UK FCDO advises foreign visitors carry the 1949 IDP together with their home licence and may drive for up to 6 months before an Egyptian licence is required. The Automobile & Touring Club of Egypt is the only body authorised to issue IDPs, and visitors cannot obtain one inside Egypt, so it must be arranged before travel.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Egypt?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Egypt 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 Egypt?
Rental companies typically require both your national licence and a 1949 IDP, especially if your licence is not in English or lacks a photo.
Which IDP convention does Egypt use?
Egypt 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

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

Requirements for other countries