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International Driving Permit for Iraq

International Driving Permit for Iraq: IDP recommended for foreign visitors. Driving side, minimum age, and how to get your IDP for Iraq online in minutes.

IDP status
IDP recommended
Drives on
Right-hand side
Convention
Geneva 1949
Min. age
18+

Do you need an IDP to drive in Iraq?

An IDP is recommended as an official translation of your licence. An International Driving Permit is an official translation of your national driver's licence into multiple languages — it never replaces your home licence, so always carry both, along with your passport.

What to carry when driving in Iraq

How to get your IDP for Iraq

You don't need to visit an office. Get your International Driving Permit online with International DL in minutes — we translate your licence into the official UN-convention languages and issue your IDP digitally, ready before you fly.

Which permit Iraq recognises

Iraq is party to the 1949 Geneva Convention. A permit issued under that treaty is the one recognised there; a Vienna-only permit may not be accepted.

Treaty status per the United Nations treaty depositary: 1949 Geneva Convention · 1968 Vienna Convention

Driving on the Right-hand side in Iraq

Iraq drives on the RIGHT. If you normally drive on the left, allow time to adjust — roundabouts, junctions and overtaking all run the opposite way, and most rental cars will have the gear shift on your right.

The legal minimum driving age in Iraq is 18. Rental companies routinely set their own, higher minimum and often add a young-driver surcharge below 25.

Driving to Iraq soon?

Get your digital International Driving Permit in minutes and drive worry-free.

Get my IDP →

Common questions about driving in Iraq

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Iraq?

IDP recommended for foreign visitors. An IDP is recommended as an official translation of your licence.

Which side of the road does Iraq drive on?

Iraq drives on the Right-hand side of the road.

How long is an International Driving Permit valid?

An IDP is valid for 1–3 years from the date of issue, depending on the plan you choose, and only while your national licence remains valid.

How fast can I get an IDP for Iraq?

You can get a digital International Driving Permit from International DL online in minutes — apply, and we issue your IDP without a trip to an office.

How Middle East compares

Requirements change at the border. If your trip crosses into a neighbouring country, check it before you drive.

Country IDP Drives on Min. age
Jordan IDP recommended Right-hand side 18+
Kuwait IDP recommended Right-hand side 18+
Lebanon IDP recommended Right-hand side 18+
United Arab Emirates IDP required Right-hand side 18+
Saudi Arabia IDP required Right-hand side 18+

Other countries

JordanKuwaitLebanonUnited Arab EmiratesSaudi Arabia

Read more in our travel guides.

Checked August 29, 2026. Driving rules change and can vary by region and nationality. Always confirm the current requirements with the official transport authority or embassy of Iraq before you travel.