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World Driving Permit

🇺🇦 Do you need an IDP to drive in Ukraine?

Depends on your licence· 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 17 Jun 2026

Short answer

It depends on the country that issued your licence — Ukraine accepts some foreign licences directly while others require an International Driving Permit (IDP). Confirm the rule for your specific licence before you travel.

Driving in Ukraine: the rule explained

Ukraine is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention and recognises compliant foreign national licences, so a national licence meeting the Convention's standards is generally accepted for short tourist driving. However, the U.S. State Department notes that U.S. licences do not meet the 1968 Convention category standards, so holders of such licences need an International Driving Permit or a Ukrainian licence. Ukraine remains under a travel advisory due to the ongoing conflict.

Exemption: Licences compliant with the 1968 Vienna Convention are accepted; U.S. licences are explicitly not accepted on their own and require an IDP.

Renting a car in Ukraine

Rental companies may require an IDP even where a national licence is technically recognised; verify with the provider. Travel-advisory conditions can limit rental availability and routes.

Motorcycles & scooters: Ensure the motorcycle category is shown on both the national licence and any IDP.

What to carry when driving in Ukraine

  • 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 required for U.S. and other non-1968-compliant licences

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.

Ukraine: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Ukraine?
It depends on the country that issued your licence — Ukraine accepts some foreign licences directly while others require an International Driving Permit (IDP). Confirm the rule for your specific licence before you travel. Ukraine is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention and recognises compliant foreign national licences, so a national licence meeting the Convention's standards is generally accepted for short tourist driving. However, the U.S. State Department notes that U.S. licences do not meet the 1968 Convention category standards, so holders of such licences need an International Driving Permit or a Ukrainian licence. Ukraine remains under a travel advisory due to the ongoing conflict.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Ukraine?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Ukraine read your licence, but it does not replace an IDP where one is legally required. Always carry your original national licence with it.
What do I need to rent a car in Ukraine?
Rental companies may require an IDP even where a national licence is technically recognised; verify with the provider. Travel-advisory conditions can limit rental availability and routes.
Which IDP convention does Ukraine use?
Ukraine 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.

Official sources

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

Requirements for other countries