An International Driving Permit (IDP) or International Driving Licence (IDL) offers as a translation and proof that you hold a valid drivers licence in your home country, at the date of issue of the IDP. You can then use this permit to drive in another contry where IDP's are accepted. Once obtained, your pemrit must be carried with your valid domestic driver licence at all times where you are behind the drivers wheel for it to be valid. It is a very useful travel document and is required for many countries when hiring a vehicle.
An IDP can also be useful to those travelling overseas as it can be used as form of identification to identify yourself as a tourist in a foreign country. For non-English drivers licence holders, an international drivers licence is required for all countries worldwide. Before travelling it would be extremely beneficial to research the country you intend on travelling to and their local driving laws and please note that there is a chance you can get fined by the local police if you do not have a valid international driving permit whilst travelling.
Please also note the main driver must always present a physical driver's licence at time of collection. Digital licences are not accepted for any rentals. If you require an international driver’s licence for your rental, this too must be a physical licence. Digital international licences are not accepted.
For the current list of countries which require an International Driving Permit, visit the New Zealand Automobile Association website for up to date information.
If I have an IDP, do I still have to take my New Zealand drivers licence when I go overseas?
Yes, your IDP is not a stand-alone document or a substitute for a valid driving licence. Therefore, you MUST carry your New Zealand licence with you along with your IDP at ALL times.
How long is my IDP valid for?
Your IDP is valid for 12 months from the date of issue or the expiry of your New Zealand licence (whichever occurs first).
Do I have to have my full licence to get an IDP?
Yes, an IDP can be issued to any full New Zealand Drivers Licence holders aged 18 years and older. However, those holding a learners permit are unable to obtain an IDP. We recommend checking with local authorities in the country you plan to drive as most locations have a minimum rental age of 21 and require a full drivers license to be able to hire, so if a driver below 21 receives an IDP, they may not be permitted to drive. If you require further information, contact us.
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