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World Driving Permit

🇨🇺 Do you need an IDP to drive in Cuba?

IDP recommended· the 1949 Geneva Convention· Last reviewed 18 Jun 2026

Key facts

IDP validity
1 year from issue

Short answer

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Cuba, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Cuba follows the 1949 Geneva 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 Cuba: the rule explained

The FCDO states you can drive in Cuba on a UK (foreign) licence for up to 6 months, after which a driving test and Cuban licence are required. An IDP is not strictly mandated by the FCDO but is recommended and some rental policies request one. Cuba honours the 1949 Geneva Convention.

Renting a car in Cuba

Rentals are through state-controlled agencies (Cubacar, Havanautos, Rex); insurance must be bought at the government rental desk, renters are usually 21+ with a credit card and passport, and fuel shortages can make self-drive difficult.

Motorcycles & scooters: Scooters/motorcycles can be hired but check vehicle condition and wear a helmet.

What to carry when driving in Cuba

  • 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
  • Passport and tourist card/visa for entry
  • Budget for mandatory rental-desk insurance and possible fuel shortages
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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.

Cuba: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Cuba?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Cuba, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Cuba follows the 1949 Geneva 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. The FCDO states you can drive in Cuba on a UK (foreign) licence for up to 6 months, after which a driving test and Cuban licence are required. An IDP is not strictly mandated by the FCDO but is recommended and some rental policies request one. Cuba honours the 1949 Geneva Convention.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Cuba?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Cuba read your licence, but where Cuba requires an IDP it must be one issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. Always carry your original national licence with it.
What do I need to rent a car in Cuba?
Rentals are through state-controlled agencies (Cubacar, Havanautos, Rex); insurance must be bought at the government rental desk, renters are usually 21+ with a credit card and passport, and fuel shortages can make self-drive difficult.
Which IDP convention does Cuba use?
Cuba 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.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid in Cuba?
Because Cuba follows the 1949 Geneva Convention, an IDP is valid for one year from its date of issue. 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 Cuba from your country

Requirements for other countries