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World Driving Permit

🇨🇾 Do you need an IDP to drive in Cyprus?

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

Key facts

IDP validity
Up to 3 years, or until your licence expires
Driving side
Left-hand
Minimum driving age
18+ years

Short answer

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

EU/EEA licences are fully valid in Cyprus. Any visitor holding a valid foreign licence may drive during a short stay, but non-EU drivers are advised to carry an International Driving Permit, particularly if the licence is not in English or Greek. Cyprus drives on the LEFT, so an IDP helps rental and police checks go smoothly.

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

Renting a car in Cyprus

Cyprus rental desks usually accept an EU/UK licence with passport; for other nationalities they often ask for an IDP, and drivers must typically be 21+ and have held the licence for one year.

Motorcycles & scooters: The IDP covers the motorcycle categories listed on your home licence.

What to carry when driving in Cyprus

  • 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 is not in English or Greek
  • Remember Cyprus drives on the left
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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.

Cyprus: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Cyprus?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Cyprus, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Cyprus 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. EU/EEA licences are fully valid in Cyprus. Any visitor holding a valid foreign licence may drive during a short stay, but non-EU drivers are advised to carry an International Driving Permit, particularly if the licence is not in English or Greek. Cyprus drives on the LEFT, so an IDP helps rental and police checks go smoothly.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Cyprus?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Cyprus read your licence, but where Cyprus 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 Cyprus?
Cyprus rental desks usually accept an EU/UK licence with passport; for other nationalities they often ask for an IDP, and drivers must typically be 21+ and have held the licence for one year.
Which IDP convention does Cyprus use?
Cyprus 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 Cyprus?
Because Cyprus 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.
What is the minimum age to drive in Cyprus?
Visitors generally need to be at least 18 to drive in Cyprus; car-rental companies often set a higher minimum age and add a young-driver surcharge. Always confirm the age terms with your specific rental provider.

Official sources

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

Driving to Cyprus from your country

Requirements for other countries