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World Driving Permit

🇪🇬 Do you need an IDP to drive in Egypt?

IDP required· the 1949 Geneva Convention· Last reviewed 17 Jun 2026

Key facts

IDP validity
1 year from issue
Driving side
Right-hand
Minimum driving age
18+ years

Short answer

Yes — to drive in Egypt you generally need an International Driving Permit (IDP), carried together with your original national driving licence. Egypt recognises IDPs issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention, so yours must come from your own country's authorised issuer under that convention. 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 Egypt: the rule explained

Egypt is a 1949 Geneva Convention country. UK FCDO advises foreign visitors carry the 1949 IDP together with their home licence and may drive for up to 6 months before an Egyptian licence is required. The Automobile & Touring Club of Egypt is the only body authorised to issue IDPs, and visitors cannot obtain one inside Egypt, so it must be arranged before travel.

Renting a car in Egypt

Rental companies typically require both your national licence and a 1949 IDP, especially if your licence is not in English or lacks a photo.

Motorcycles & scooters: The same IDP plus national licence requirement applies to renting and riding motorcycles.

What to carry when driving in Egypt

  • 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
  • Carry the 1949 IDP alongside your home licence at all times
  • Obtain the IDP in your home country before arrival
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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.

Egypt: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Egypt?
Yes — to drive in Egypt you generally need an International Driving Permit (IDP), carried together with your original national driving licence. Egypt recognises IDPs issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention, so yours must come from your own country's authorised issuer under that convention. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required. Egypt is a 1949 Geneva Convention country. UK FCDO advises foreign visitors carry the 1949 IDP together with their home licence and may drive for up to 6 months before an Egyptian licence is required. The Automobile & Touring Club of Egypt is the only body authorised to issue IDPs, and visitors cannot obtain one inside Egypt, so it must be arranged before travel.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Egypt?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Egypt read your licence, but where Egypt 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 Egypt?
Rental companies typically require both your national licence and a 1949 IDP, especially if your licence is not in English or lacks a photo.
Which IDP convention does Egypt use?
Egypt 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 Egypt?
Because Egypt 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.
What is the minimum age to drive in Egypt?
Visitors generally need to be at least 18 to drive in Egypt; 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 Egypt from your country

Requirements for other countries