🇨🇱 Do you need an IDP to drive in Chile?

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

Short answer

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

Driving in Chile: the rule explained

Chile is a party to the 1949 Geneva Convention (not the 1968 Vienna Convention), so the Geneva-format IDP is the recognised international document. Tourists can generally drive and rent on a valid home licence, and police usually accept national licences, but an IDP or certified Spanish translation is strongly recommended to avoid insurance complications in the event of a claim.

Renting a car in Chile

Rental firms require a valid passport/ID, the original home licence and a credit card; many request an IDP or Spanish translation when the licence is not in Spanish. Minimum age is generally 21.

Motorcycles & scooters: For renting a motorcycle, ensure the motorcycle class is shown on the licence/IDP.

What to carry when driving in Chile

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 IDP or certified Spanish translation together with the original licence for insurance validity

Check your exact trip

Get a tailored answer for your licence country, dates and vehicle.

Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Chile: frequently asked questions

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

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Chile, even where it is not always strictly enforced. Carry it alongside your original national licence. Chile is a party to the 1949 Geneva Convention (not the 1968 Vienna Convention), so the Geneva-format IDP is the recognised international document. Tourists can generally drive and rent on a valid home licence, and police usually accept national licences, but an IDP or certified Spanish translation is strongly recommended to avoid insurance complications in the event of a claim.

Is a translated driving licence accepted in Chile?

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

Rental firms require a valid passport/ID, the original home licence and a credit card; many request an IDP or Spanish translation when the licence is not in Spanish. Minimum age is generally 21.

Which IDP convention does Chile use?

Chile 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. Embassy in Chile — driving in Chile

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.