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World Driving Permit

🇵🇾 Do you need an IDP to drive in Paraguay?

IDP recommended· the 1949 Geneva Convention· Last reviewed 18 Jun 2026

Key facts

IDP validity
1 year from issue

Short answer

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

Paraguay recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP (valid one year) and does not accept the 1968 Vienna model, so travellers should carry the 1949-format permit. An IDP is recommended alongside the national licence and is commonly required by rental companies and at checkpoints. Carry your home licence at all times.

Renting a car in Paraguay

Rental agencies typically require a national licence plus a 1949 IDP, a credit card and minimum age (usually 21-25).

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

What to carry when driving in Paraguay

  • 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
  • Use the 1949 Geneva IDP, not the 1968 model
  • 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.

Paraguay: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Paraguay?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Paraguay, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Paraguay 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. Paraguay recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP (valid one year) and does not accept the 1968 Vienna model, so travellers should carry the 1949-format permit. An IDP is recommended alongside the national licence and is commonly required by rental companies and at checkpoints. Carry your home licence at all times.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Paraguay?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Paraguay read your licence, but where Paraguay 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 Paraguay?
Rental agencies typically require a national licence plus a 1949 IDP, a credit card and minimum age (usually 21-25).
Which IDP convention does Paraguay use?
Paraguay 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 Paraguay?
Because Paraguay 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.

Official sources

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

Driving to Paraguay from your country

Requirements for other countries