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World Driving Permit

🇦🇿 Do you need an IDP to drive in Azerbaijan?

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

Key facts

IDP validity
Up to 3 years, or until your licence expires

Short answer

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Azerbaijan, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Azerbaijan follows the 1968 Vienna Convention. Carry it alongside your original national licence. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required.

Driving in Azerbaijan: the rule explained

Azerbaijan is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention and a valid foreign national licence is generally sufficient for short tourist stays. The U.S. State Department notes that foreigners residing more than 30 days must obtain a local licence through ASAN Xidmet, which implies short-stay visitors may drive on their foreign licence. An IDP is recommended, particularly where the licence is not in Latin or Azerbaijani script.

Exemption: Foreigners residing more than 30 days must obtain a local Azerbaijani licence via ASAN Xidmet.

Renting a car in Azerbaijan

Rental requirements are flexible; an IDP is not always demanded but having one streamlines pickup and is sometimes required for less-common-language licences.

Motorcycles & scooters: Confirm the motorcycle category is shown on the licence and any IDP before renting.

What to carry when driving in Azerbaijan

  • 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 recommended for non-Latin-script licences
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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.

Azerbaijan: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Azerbaijan?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Azerbaijan, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Azerbaijan follows the 1968 Vienna Convention. Carry it alongside your original national licence. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required. Azerbaijan is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention and a valid foreign national licence is generally sufficient for short tourist stays. The U.S. State Department notes that foreigners residing more than 30 days must obtain a local licence through ASAN Xidmet, which implies short-stay visitors may drive on their foreign licence. An IDP is recommended, particularly where the licence is not in Latin or Azerbaijani script.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Azerbaijan?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Azerbaijan read your licence, but where Azerbaijan requires an IDP it must be one issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Always carry your original national licence with it.
What do I need to rent a car in Azerbaijan?
Rental requirements are flexible; an IDP is not always demanded but having one streamlines pickup and is sometimes required for less-common-language licences.
Which IDP convention does Azerbaijan use?
Azerbaijan 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.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid in Azerbaijan?
Because Azerbaijan follows the 1968 Vienna Convention, an IDP is valid for up to three years, or until your national licence expires — whichever comes first. The permit is only valid alongside your original national licence, and it cannot be renewed — you apply for a new one from your home country's authorised issuer when it lapses.

Official sources

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

Driving to Azerbaijan from your country

Requirements for other countries