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World Driving Permit

🇵🇭 Do you need an IDP to drive in Philippines?

Depends on your licence· the 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 7 Jun 2026

Key facts

IDP validity
Up to 3 years, or until your licence expires
Driving side
Right-hand

Short answer

It depends on the licence you hold — Philippines accepts some foreign licences directly while others require an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Confirm the rule for your specific licence country before you travel. 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 Philippines: the rule explained

Foreign licenses in English are valid in the Philippines for up to 90 days from arrival. Licenses not in English must be accompanied by an official English translation; an IDP also satisfies this. After 90 days, convert to a Philippine (LTO) license.

Renting a car in Philippines

Rental and ride platforms check the license language — non-English licenses need the translation or IDP at pickup.

What to carry when driving in Philippines

  • 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
  • Official English translation or IDP if your license is not in English
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Check your exact trip

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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.

Philippines: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Philippines?
It depends on the licence you hold — Philippines accepts some foreign licences directly while others require an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Confirm the rule for your specific licence country before you travel. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required. Foreign licenses in English are valid in the Philippines for up to 90 days from arrival. Licenses not in English must be accompanied by an official English translation; an IDP also satisfies this. After 90 days, convert to a Philippine (LTO) license.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Philippines?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Philippines read your licence, but where Philippines 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 Philippines?
Rental and ride platforms check the license language — non-English licenses need the translation or IDP at pickup.
Which IDP convention does Philippines use?
Philippines 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 Philippines?
Because Philippines 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 Philippines from your country

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Requirements for other countries