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World Driving Permit

🇺🇾 Do you need an IDP to drive in Uruguay?

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

Uruguay drives on the right. The UK FCDO confirms visitors can use a home (UK photocard) driving licence to drive in Uruguay for the first 90 days after arrival; a Uruguayan licence is needed after that. Holders of older paper licences need an IDP. A certified Spanish translation can help at police checks if the home licence is not in a Roman-alphabet/Latin format.

Exemption: Home photocard licence accepted for tourist stays up to 90 days.

Renting a car in Uruguay

Car hire companies typically require at least 2 years' driving experience and may ask for an IDP in addition to the home licence.

Motorcycles & scooters: A valid motorcycle category on the home licence (or IDP) is required to rent or ride a motorcycle.

What to carry when driving in Uruguay

  • 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 a photocard licence or carry an IDP if you hold a paper licence
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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.

Uruguay: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Uruguay?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Uruguay, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Uruguay 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. Uruguay drives on the right. The UK FCDO confirms visitors can use a home (UK photocard) driving licence to drive in Uruguay for the first 90 days after arrival; a Uruguayan licence is needed after that. Holders of older paper licences need an IDP. A certified Spanish translation can help at police checks if the home licence is not in a Roman-alphabet/Latin format.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Uruguay?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Uruguay read your licence, but where Uruguay 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 Uruguay?
Car hire companies typically require at least 2 years' driving experience and may ask for an IDP in addition to the home licence.
Which IDP convention does Uruguay use?
Uruguay 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 Uruguay?
Because Uruguay 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 Uruguay from your country

Requirements for other countries