Skip to content
World Driving Permit

🇲🇪 Do you need an IDP to drive in Montenegro?

IDP recommended· the 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 17 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 Montenegro, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Montenegro 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 Montenegro: the rule explained

Montenegro is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention and recognises a valid foreign national licence for tourist driving. An IDP is not legally required where the licence is in Latin or Cyrillic script, but is needed if the licence uses another script. Some rental companies require an IDP for non-EU/EEA licences regardless of script.

Exemption: Latin/Cyrillic-script licences do not legally require an IDP; some rental firms still require one for non-EU/EEA drivers.

Renting a car in Montenegro

Many rental agencies list an IDP as a requirement for non-EU/EEA drivers, and smaller providers may ask for one even when not strictly enforced.

Motorcycles & scooters: Ensure the motorcycle category is endorsed on the licence and any IDP before renting.

What to carry when driving in Montenegro

  • 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 recommended for non-Latin/Cyrillic-script licences
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.

Montenegro: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Montenegro?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Montenegro, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Montenegro 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. Montenegro is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention and recognises a valid foreign national licence for tourist driving. An IDP is not legally required where the licence is in Latin or Cyrillic script, but is needed if the licence uses another script. Some rental companies require an IDP for non-EU/EEA licences regardless of script.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Montenegro?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Montenegro read your licence, but where Montenegro 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 Montenegro?
Many rental agencies list an IDP as a requirement for non-EU/EEA drivers, and smaller providers may ask for one even when not strictly enforced.
Which IDP convention does Montenegro use?
Montenegro 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 Montenegro?
Because Montenegro 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 Montenegro from your country

Requirements for other countries