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World Driving Permit

🇮🇸 Do you need an IDP to drive in Iceland?

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
Right-hand
Minimum driving age
17+ years

Short answer

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

EU/EEA licences are fully valid in Iceland. Tourists may drive on a valid foreign licence with a photo and expiry date provided it is printed in Latin characters. If the licence is not in Latin script, an International Driving Permit (or official translation) must be carried alongside the original licence.

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

Renting a car in Iceland

Icelandic rental companies require a licence held for at least one year, plus a passport and credit card; they ask for an IDP when the licence is non-Latin script.

Motorcycles & scooters: Standard licence/IDP rules apply to any motorcycle category shown on the licence.

What to carry when driving in Iceland

  • 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 Latin characters
  • Licence held at least one year (rental rule)
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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.

Iceland: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Iceland?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Iceland, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Iceland 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 Iceland. Tourists may drive on a valid foreign licence with a photo and expiry date provided it is printed in Latin characters. If the licence is not in Latin script, an International Driving Permit (or official translation) must be carried alongside the original licence.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Iceland?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Iceland read your licence, but where Iceland 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 Iceland?
Icelandic rental companies require a licence held for at least one year, plus a passport and credit card; they ask for an IDP when the licence is non-Latin script.
Which IDP convention does Iceland use?
Iceland 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 Iceland?
Because Iceland 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 Iceland?
Visitors generally need to be at least 17 to drive in Iceland; 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 Iceland from your country

In-depth driving guides

Real-world driving and IDP guides for popular trips:

Requirements for other countries