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World Driving Permit

🇲🇨 Do you need an IDP to drive in Monaco?

IDP recommended· the 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 18 Jun 2026

Key facts

IDP validity
Up to 3 years, or until your licence expires

Short answer

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

Monaco mirrors French/EU driving rules: EU/EEA licences are accepted directly, and a foreign licence may be used for short tourist stays. Monaco's official Princely Government guidance recommends carrying an IDP in addition to the national licence when driving abroad, and an IDP/certified translation helps for non-French, non-Latin-script licences. Stays over 185 days as a resident require a licence exchange.

Exemption: EU/EEA and Swiss licences are recognised directly, mirroring French rules.

Renting a car in Monaco

Cars are typically hired in neighbouring France; rental firms accept EU licences and may require an IDP for non-EU licences.

Motorcycles & scooters: A category-A licence is required for motorcycles, which are widely used on the Principality's roads.

What to carry when driving in Monaco

  • 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 licence not in French/Latin script
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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.

Monaco: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Monaco?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Monaco, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Monaco 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. Monaco mirrors French/EU driving rules: EU/EEA licences are accepted directly, and a foreign licence may be used for short tourist stays. Monaco's official Princely Government guidance recommends carrying an IDP in addition to the national licence when driving abroad, and an IDP/certified translation helps for non-French, non-Latin-script licences. Stays over 185 days as a resident require a licence exchange.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Monaco?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Monaco read your licence, but where Monaco 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 Monaco?
Cars are typically hired in neighbouring France; rental firms accept EU licences and may require an IDP for non-EU licences.
Which IDP convention does Monaco use?
Monaco 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 Monaco?
Because Monaco 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.

Official sources

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

Driving to Monaco from your country

Requirements for other countries