Do You Need an International Driver’s License in Italy?

Do You Really Need an International Driver’s License in Italy?

Here’s your honest and simple answer: Most non-EU/EEA travelers will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive legally in Italy, along with your valid home country driver’s license. This is the main requirement laid out in Article 135 of the Italian Highway Code. If your license is not written in Italian (for example, it’s only in English or another language), you’ll need an official IDP or a certified Italian translation. For most tourists from the US, Canada, Australia, UK, and other non-EU countries, this means you can’t just show up with your regular license. Rental car companies often want to see your IDP too.

Why Is an International Driving Permit (IDP) Needed in Italy?

Italy’s rules aren’t arbitrary, they help keep the roads safe for everyone. The Italian government, with input from the Automobile Club d’Italia, has put clear rules in place for visitors. Here’s why you need an IDP or certified translation:

• Language barrier: Italian police and car rental agencies need to quickly and easily verify your license. If your license isn’t in Italian, or you don’t have an official translation, you could face problems if stopped or in an accident.
• Legal protection: If you get pulled over or have an accident and can’t show the proper paperwork, you may be fined and your insurance might not cover you.
• Rental car companies: Most international rental companies in Italy will ask for both your driver’s license and your IDP before giving you the keys.

The short version: Don’t take chances. It’s worth the small extra step to get an IDP before your trip, giving you peace of mind so you can just enjoy your Italian travels.

What is an International Driving Permit? (Clearing Up the Name Confusion)

Some travelers get tripped up on the name. You might see “international driver’s license” on the web, but the real, official name is International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP is not a standalone license; it’s simply a translation of your current driver’s license and shows that you are legally allowed to drive in your home country. It’s recognized worldwide and is connected to the 1949 and 1968 International Conventions on Road Traffic. Here’s what you should know:

• The IDP must always be shown with your original, valid driver’s license from your home country.
• It’s not valid by itself, you can’t drive with only the IDP in Italy.
• The IDP has translations into multiple languages, including Italian.

So, keep both documents with you every time you drive in Italy.

What Are the Official Rules for Foreign Drivers in Italy?

Key Legal Basis: Article 135 of the Italian Highway Code

According to Italian law, non-EU/EEA driving licenses must be accompanied by an International Driving Permit, or by an official Italian translation, to legally drive in Italy. The Italian Highway Code (Codice della Strada) spells this out in Article 135, and the Italy tourism portal echoes this guidance for visitors:

• If you’re visiting for up to 12 months as a tourist (not a resident), you must have an IDP unless your license is in Italian, or you have a certified Italian translation.
• Visitors from some countries with special agreements may have different rules, but if your license is not in Italian, police will want to see one of the above anyway.

The bottom line: For short visits as a tourist, always have your IDP plus your valid home license.

If You Move to Italy: Stricter Rules Apply for Residents

The requirements get even stricter if you decide to settle in Italy. Once you take up legal residence, using an IDP or foreign license is only allowed for a short transition period (usually 12 months). After that, you need to convert your license to an Italian one, depending on your home country and the agreements in place. But for most travelers and tourists, this stricter law does not apply.

Which Countries Need an IDP to Drive in Italy? Can I Use My Own License?

Common Scenarios for Foreign Travelers

Let’s break it down by country, based on the language and agreements:

• US, Canada, Australia, and most non-EU/EEA countries: You must have an International Driving Permit (or a sworn Italian translation) with your valid home license.
• UK drivers: You need an IDP if your license is not in Italian. Since most UK licenses are only in English, police and rental companies usually require an IDP as backup, unless you are using a certified Italian translation.
• EU / EEA countries (including Switzerland): You can use your home country license without an IDP, as long as it’s issued in the Latin alphabet and is valid.
• Non-EU licenses in non-Latin alphabets (for example, in Arabic, Cyrillic, Japanese, or Chinese): IDP is required, or a certified translation into Italian.

Before You Drive in Italy: Your Essential Checklist

Don’t want to get stuck at the car rental counter or face a roadside police stop unprepared? Here’s what you need before starting that Italian driving adventure:

Item	Required?	Notes
Valid home country driver’s license	Yes	Always keep original with you
International Driving Permit (IDP)	Yes, for most non-EU/EEA visitors	Obtain from your home country before you travel
Certified Italian translation (if IDP not available)	Optional / only if no IDP	Must be approved (e.g., by consulate)
Passport	Recommended	Good for ID and required at rental counters
Credit card	Essential for car rentals	Most agencies will not accept debit cards

How and Where Do You Get an International Driving Permit?

Step-by-Step Guide

Getting an IDP is much easier than most people expect. Here’s how to do it safely:

• Contact the official automobile association in your home country. For example:
  • US: American Automobile Association (AAA) or American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), not online-only companies
  • UK: Post Office branches or the RAC
  • Australia: Your state or territory motoring association
  • Canada: Canadian Automobile Association (CAA)
• Fill out a short application. You’ll need:
  • Your valid driver’s license
  • Passport-sized photos (usually 2)
  • Small fee (varies by country but usually under $30 USD/equivalent)
• Processing time is usually quick, often same day or within a few days when applying in person.

Warning: Do not buy so-called “International Driver’s Licenses” from unofficial websites. These are not recognized in Italy and are illegal. Always use your country’s official providers.

Renting a Car in Italy: What Will Companies Ask For?

Rental Requirements in Practice

Most rental car companies in Italy, such as Avis, Hertz, Europcar, and Sixt, have strict policies about foreign drivers. Typically, at the rental counter, you’ll be asked to show:

• Your original, valid driver’s license from home
• Your International Driving Permit (IDP)
• Your passport for identity confirmation
• A credit card in your name

If you can’t provide the IDP when asked, most companies will refuse to let you drive away. Even if you have a printed copy or an unofficial version, it almost never works. Having the IDP is not just about obeying the law, but also about making sure you don’t get turned away at the counter after a long flight. Make sure to book your rental from an official platform, visit the Avis official website, Hertz official website, or the Europcar official website for details and bookings.

What Happens If You Drive Without an IDP in Italy?

You might think, “I’ll just risk it; how bad can it be?” While you might get away with it for a day or two, it’s really not worth the hassle or cost. The risks include:

• Police fines if you are stopped and can’t show the right documents (often costly and immediate)
• Potential for your car to be impounded if there’s a serious issue
• No legal cover from insurance in case of an accident or claim
• Major difficulties or refusal at rental car counters

The peace of mind is worth the small time and effort of securing the right permit before your trip.

Driving in Italy: Must-Know Practical Tips for Tourists

Simple Rules to Remember

Italian roads are famous for both their beauty and their tricky local driving style. Know these basics:

• Drive on the right-hand side of the road (like in the US/Canada, opposite to the UK/Australia)
• City ZTL zones (Zona Traffico Limitato) restrict non-resident car access, watch for signs, as fines are easily issued by camera
• Always wear seat belts and obey posted speed limits
• Don’t use your phone while driving, unless hands-free
• GPS and navigation: A good map or GPS is essential, Italy’s signage can be confusing
• Refueling (“benzina” is gasoline, “diesel” is diesel, know what your car takes!)
• Automatic cars are less common and usually more expensive; if you want one, book far in advance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What You Need for the Road in Italy

Here’s what you should always bring if you plan to drive in Italy as a tourist:

• Valid driver’s license from your home country
• Official International Driving Permit (IDP)
• Passport
• Credit card for car rental

It’s simple, prepare ahead, and an Italian road trip is one of the best ways to explore the country’s hidden gems, coastlines, and wineries. Don’t forget to browse unique Italian travel essentials at the Italy on Foot Store as you plan your perfect getaway.

Buon viaggio, happy travels through Italy!