🇳🇱 Do you need an IDP to drive in Netherlands?

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

Short answer

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

Driving in Netherlands: the rule explained

EU/EEA licences are fully valid in the Netherlands. Tourists from other countries may drive on their foreign licence during a short visit, but the Dutch vehicle authority (RDW) advises obtaining an International Driving Permit if the licence categories or text do not follow the standard (Vienna Convention) format. A non-Latin-script licence should be carried together with an IDP or an official translation.

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

Renting a car in Netherlands

Dutch rental companies ask for the home licence and passport; for non-EU or non-Latin-script licences they commonly require an IDP at the counter.

Motorcycles & scooters: An IDP covers the same motorcycle categories listed on your national licence.

What to carry when driving in Netherlands

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 if your licence uses non-standard category codes

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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.

Netherlands: frequently asked questions

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

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Netherlands, even where it is not always strictly enforced. Carry it alongside your original national licence. EU/EEA licences are fully valid in the Netherlands. Tourists from other countries may drive on their foreign licence during a short visit, but the Dutch vehicle authority (RDW) advises obtaining an International Driving Permit if the licence categories or text do not follow the standard (Vienna Convention) format. A non-Latin-script licence should be carried together with an IDP or an official translation.

Is a translated driving licence accepted in Netherlands?

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

Dutch rental companies ask for the home licence and passport; for non-EU or non-Latin-script licences they commonly require an IDP at the counter.

Which IDP convention does Netherlands use?

Netherlands 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

RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority) — driving with a 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.