Skip to content
World Driving Permit

🇲🇹 Do you need an IDP to drive in Malta?

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

Key facts

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

Short answer

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

EU licences are fully recognised in Malta. A non-EU visitor may drive on a valid foreign licence for up to twelve months from last entry, but an International Driving Permit is recommended (and effectively needed) if the home licence is not in English or is from a country not party to the Geneva Convention. Malta drives on the LEFT.

Exemption: EU-issued licences are fully recognised in Malta and need no IDP.

Renting a car in Malta

Maltese rental companies check the home licence plus passport and may require an IDP for non-EU or non-English licences.

Motorcycles & scooters: The IDP covers any motorcycle category endorsed on your national licence.

What to carry when driving in Malta

  • 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
  • Remember Malta drives on the left
Print / save this checklist (PDF)

Check your exact trip

Get a tailored answer for your licence country, dates and vehicle.

Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Malta: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Malta?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Malta, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Malta 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. EU licences are fully recognised in Malta. A non-EU visitor may drive on a valid foreign licence for up to twelve months from last entry, but an International Driving Permit is recommended (and effectively needed) if the home licence is not in English or is from a country not party to the Geneva Convention. Malta drives on the LEFT.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Malta?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Malta read your licence, but where Malta 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 Malta?
Maltese rental companies check the home licence plus passport and may require an IDP for non-EU or non-English licences.
Which IDP convention does Malta use?
Malta 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 Malta?
Because Malta 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 Malta?
Visitors generally need to be at least 18 to drive in Malta; 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 Malta from your country

Requirements for other countries