🇩🇪 Do you need an IDP to drive in Germany?

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

Short answer

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

Driving in Germany: the rule explained

EU/EEA licences are fully valid in Germany without any permit. Visitors from non-EU/EEA countries may drive on a valid home licence for short stays, but German law requires that a non-EU/EEA licence be accompanied by a recognised translation or an International Driving Permit if the licence is not in German or does not conform to the 1968 Vienna Convention. Germany recognises the 1968 (and 1949) IDP; an IDP needs no separate translation.

Exemption: EU/EEA-issued licences are fully recognised in Germany and need no IDP or translation.

Renting a car in Germany

German rental desks check the physical licence plus passport, and for non-Latin-script or non-EU licences they typically ask for an IDP or certified translation before releasing the car.

Motorcycles & scooters: The same licence/IDP rules apply to motorcycle categories shown on your licence.

What to carry when driving in Germany

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
Certified translation if your licence is non-Latin script and you have no IDP

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.

Germany: frequently asked questions

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

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Germany, even where it is not always strictly enforced. Carry it alongside your original national licence. EU/EEA licences are fully valid in Germany without any permit. Visitors from non-EU/EEA countries may drive on a valid home licence for short stays, but German law requires that a non-EU/EEA licence be accompanied by a recognised translation or an International Driving Permit if the licence is not in German or does not conform to the 1968 Vienna Convention. Germany recognises the 1968 (and 1949) IDP; an IDP needs no separate translation.

Is a translated driving licence accepted in Germany?

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

German rental desks check the physical licence plus passport, and for non-Latin-script or non-EU licences they typically ask for an IDP or certified translation before releasing the car.

Which IDP convention does Germany use?

Germany 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

Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) — validity of foreign driving licences in Germany

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.