🇱🇻 Do you need an IDP to drive in Latvia?

IDP recommended· 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 17 Jun 2026

Short answer

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

Driving in Latvia: the rule explained

Latvia is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention and recognises foreign driving licences that comply with it. A non-EU visitor may drive in Latvia for up to 1 year from arrival on a valid home licence, but an International Driving Permit is strongly recommended — especially if the licence is not in Latin script — to satisfy police and rental desks.

Exemption: Licences issued by an EU member state, an EFTA/EEA state, or the United Kingdom are fully valid in Latvia until the licence's own expiry date.

Renting a car in Latvia

Many Latvian rental agencies, particularly at Riga airport and major cities, ask for an IDP alongside your national licence, especially for non-Latin-script or non-EU licences.

Motorcycles & scooters: The same rules apply to motorcycles: carry your home licence with the correct category plus an IDP or certified translation if your licence is not in Latin script.

What to carry when driving in Latvia

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
IDP (1968 Vienna model) or certified translation if your home licence is not in Latin script
Valid only for up to 1 year from arrival on a non-EU licence

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.

Latvia: frequently asked questions

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

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Latvia, even where it is not always strictly enforced. Carry it alongside your original national licence. Latvia is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention and recognises foreign driving licences that comply with it. A non-EU visitor may drive in Latvia for up to 1 year from arrival on a valid home licence, but an International Driving Permit is strongly recommended — especially if the licence is not in Latin script — to satisfy police and rental desks.

Is a translated driving licence accepted in Latvia?

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

Many Latvian rental agencies, particularly at Riga airport and major cities, ask for an IDP alongside your national licence, especially for non-Latin-script or non-EU licences.

Which IDP convention does Latvia use?

Latvia recognises IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Make sure your IDP is issued by your own country's authorised issuer under the matching convention.

Official sources

CSDD (Road Traffic Safety Directorate) — use of foreign driving licence

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.