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World Driving Permit

🇷🇸 Do you need an IDP to drive in Serbia?

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

Serbia is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention and recognises a valid foreign national driving licence during a temporary tourist stay. An International Driving Permit is not strictly mandated by law for short visits but is commonly expected, especially for non-EU or non-Latin-script licences. A foreign licence used with an IDP is generally treated as valid for up to six months.

Exemption: EU/EEA national licences are recognised for the temporary stay; non-EU visitors are advised to carry an IDP.

Renting a car in Serbia

Most Serbian rental companies request an IDP alongside the home licence, and many Belgrade agencies ask for one even from EU drivers as a precaution.

Motorcycles & scooters: Carry the correct motorcycle category endorsement on your licence and IDP, as it must match the vehicle class rented.

What to carry when driving in Serbia

  • 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 if licence is non-EU or non-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.

Serbia: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Serbia?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Serbia, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Serbia 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. Serbia is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention and recognises a valid foreign national driving licence during a temporary tourist stay. An International Driving Permit is not strictly mandated by law for short visits but is commonly expected, especially for non-EU or non-Latin-script licences. A foreign licence used with an IDP is generally treated as valid for up to six months.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Serbia?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Serbia read your licence, but where Serbia 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 Serbia?
Most Serbian rental companies request an IDP alongside the home licence, and many Belgrade agencies ask for one even from EU drivers as a precaution.
Which IDP convention does Serbia use?
Serbia 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 Serbia?
Because Serbia 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 Serbia from your country

Requirements for other countries