Planning to drive while visiting the UK? You’re not alone. But figuring out if your license is valid, if you need an International Driving Permit (IDP), and how long you can legally drive can feel like a headache waiting to happen.
Good news: you can skip the confusion and get what you need in just 8 minutes with the International Drivers Association. We make things quick, official, and hassle-free—so you can hit the road, not the paperwork.
Whether you’re flying into London or road-tripping across the Highlands, here’s what every visitor needs to know.
Here’s the Shortcut
You don’t need to figure all this out the hard way.
The International Drivers Association helps travellers like you drive in the UK without the paperwork headache.
✅ If you’re visiting for less than 12 months
✅ If you want to rent a car without drama
✅ If your licence isn’t in English
An IDP is your safest bet—and we’ll get it sorted in 8 minutes flat. Get Your International Driving Permit Now
“40% of car rental rejections for foreign visitors are due to missing IDPs.” – Source: UK rental industry insights, 2024.
Can I Drive in the UK with My Foreign Licence?
Yes, you can – but for how long and under what conditions depends on where your licence was issued. EU/EEA drivers generally have the easiest ride. Visitors from most other countries can drive for up to 12 months, but some may need extra steps.
Let’s break it down:
- EU/EEA licence? You’re good until it expires or you turn 70.
- From a designated country like Australia, Canada, or Japan? You’ve got 12 months. If you move here, you can swap it for a UK licence—no test needed.
- From anywhere else? You can drive for 12 months, but after that, you’ll need to pass a UK test.
Do I Need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
If your licence isn’t in English or doesn’t have a photo, yes—you’ll likely need an IDP. Even if it’s not legally required, car rental companies might insist on it.
Most UK police officers speak English—but your licence might not. An IDP helps avoid awkward roadside chats or rental desk rejections.
Here’s the quick rule of thumb:
- Licence in English with photo? You’re probably fine.
- Not in English? Get an IDP.
- Want to rent a car without the drama? Definitely get an IDP.
How Do I Get an IDP?
You can get one online in 8 minutes through International Drivers Association.
No queues. No confusing forms. No trips to the embassy. Just upload your licence, photo, and info—we’ll do the rest.
- Valid in 150+ countries
- Backed by UN conventions
- PDF copy in minutes, printed version shipped worldwide
What Happens If I Stay Longer Than 12 Months?
After 12 months, non-EU/EEA visitors need to either exchange their licence (if allowed) or pass the UK driving test.
The clock starts ticking the day you arrive—not every time you re-enter. If you stay beyond that, driving without the right licence means fines, court visits, and invalid insurance.
For residents from:
- Designated countries – You can exchange within 5 years, but you must do it before the 12-month mark to keep driving.
- Other countries – You’ll need to apply for a provisional licence and pass theory and practical tests.
What Are the Driving Rules I Should Know?
Here are the key things you’ll need to remember when driving in the UK:
- Drive on the left. Always.
- Roundabouts flow clockwise. Give way to the right.
- Follow speed limits:
- 30mph in towns
- 60mph on single carriageways
- 70mph on dual carriageways/motorways
- No phones in hand. Not even to check the map.
- Seat belts are a must—for everyone.
- Watch out for pedestrians. You’re expected to stop at crossings—even if they haven’t stepped off the curb yet.
“Quick Guide: UK Driving Dos and Don’ts”
Can I Rent a Car Without an IDP?
Technically, maybe. But rental companies make their own rules.
If your licence isn’t in English or doesn’t have a photo, they might turn you away without an IDP.
Even if everything looks okay, some companies just ask for it anyway.
So if you want to avoid awkward “sorry, can’t give you the car” moments at the desk—just bring the IDP. It’s cheap insurance against a ruined trip.
“I flew into Heathrow, had a car booked, but the guy behind the counter said no IDP, no keys. Luckily I found IDA online and got it done same day.” – Daniel, visitor from Argentina
