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World Driving Permit

🇲🇰 Do you need an IDP to drive in North Macedonia?

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 North Macedonia, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, North Macedonia 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 North Macedonia: the rule explained

North Macedonia is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention and permits temporary visitors to drive on a valid national licence during a short stay. An IDP (1968 model) is recommended, especially for non-Latin-script licences, and is typically requested by rental companies. Carry the IDP alongside your home licence.

Renting a car in North Macedonia

Rental firms generally require a national licence plus IDP, with minimum age 21 and licence held at least two years.

Motorcycles & scooters: Ensure the motorcycle category is shown on your licence and IDP.

What to carry when driving in North Macedonia

  • 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
  • Green Card / vehicle insurance proof
  • Passport
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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.

North Macedonia: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in North Macedonia?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in North Macedonia, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, North Macedonia 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. North Macedonia is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention and permits temporary visitors to drive on a valid national licence during a short stay. An IDP (1968 model) is recommended, especially for non-Latin-script licences, and is typically requested by rental companies. Carry the IDP alongside your home licence.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in North Macedonia?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in North Macedonia read your licence, but where North Macedonia 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 North Macedonia?
Rental firms generally require a national licence plus IDP, with minimum age 21 and licence held at least two years.
Which IDP convention does North Macedonia use?
North Macedonia 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 North Macedonia?
Because North Macedonia 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 North Macedonia from your country

Requirements for other countries