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World Driving Permit

🇮🇶 Do you need an IDP to drive in Iraq?

IDP required· 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 18 Jun 2026

Short answer

Yes — to drive in Iraq 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 Iraq: the rule explained

The UK FCDO states you must carry both the 1968 version of the International Driving Permit and your national driving licence in the car when driving in Iraq. Non-residents may use a foreign licence with an IDP for a limited initial period. The FCDO advises against all travel to most of Iraq, so driving carries serious safety risk.

Renting a car in Iraq

Carry your national licence and a 1968 IDP together; the IDP must be obtained in your home country before arrival.

Motorcycles & scooters: Same documentation applies to motorcycles, but fake checkpoints and carjacking risk make road travel hazardous.

What to carry when driving in Iraq

  • 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
  • 1968 IDP obtained before travel
  • Check current FCDO advisory before any road travel

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.

Iraq: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Iraq?
Yes — to drive in Iraq 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. The UK FCDO states you must carry both the 1968 version of the International Driving Permit and your national driving licence in the car when driving in Iraq. Non-residents may use a foreign licence with an IDP for a limited initial period. The FCDO advises against all travel to most of Iraq, so driving carries serious safety risk.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Iraq?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Iraq 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 Iraq?
Carry your national licence and a 1968 IDP together; the IDP must be obtained in your home country before arrival.
Which IDP convention does Iraq use?
Iraq 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

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

Requirements for other countries