Skip to content
World Driving Permit

🇸🇾 Do you need an IDP to drive in Syria?

Depends on your licence· 1949 Geneva Convention· Last reviewed 18 Jun 2026

Short answer

It depends on the country that issued your licence — Syria 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 Syria: the rule explained

Syria acceded to the 1949 Geneva Convention (1953), so the 1949-format IDP is the recognised document and a certified Arabic translation helps at checkpoints. However, the UK FCDO advises against all travel to Syria due to unpredictable security and terrorism threats. Tourist self-drive is not a realistic scenario.

Renting a car in Syria

Normal tourist self-drive rental is not viable under current conditions; any road travel should follow security advice.

What to carry when driving in Syria

  • 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
  • Do not travel for tourism
  • Carry passport and documents at checkpoints

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.

Syria: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Syria?
It depends on the country that issued your licence — Syria accepts some foreign licences directly while others require an International Driving Permit (IDP). Confirm the rule for your specific licence before you travel. Syria acceded to the 1949 Geneva Convention (1953), so the 1949-format IDP is the recognised document and a certified Arabic translation helps at checkpoints. However, the UK FCDO advises against all travel to Syria due to unpredictable security and terrorism threats. Tourist self-drive is not a realistic scenario.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Syria?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Syria 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 Syria?
Normal tourist self-drive rental is not viable under current conditions; any road travel should follow security advice.
Which IDP convention does Syria use?
Syria 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.

Official sources

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

Requirements for other countries