International Driving Permit for France
International Driving Permit for France: IDP recommended for foreign visitors. Driving side, minimum age, and how to get your IDP for France online in minutes.
Do you need an IDP to drive in France?
EU/EEA licences need no IDP. Non-EU visitors should carry an IDP (required if your licence is not in the Latin alphabet). 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 France
- Your valid national driver's licence
- Your International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Your passport and rental documents
How to get your IDP for France
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 France recognises
France is party to both the 1949 Geneva and the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, so an International Driving Permit issued under either treaty is recognised there.
Treaty status per the United Nations treaty depositary: 1949 Geneva Convention · 1968 Vienna Convention
Driving on the Right-hand side in France
France 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 France is 18. Rental companies routinely set their own, higher minimum and often add a young-driver surcharge below 25.
Driving to France soon?
Get your digital International Driving Permit in minutes and drive worry-free.
Get my IDP →Common questions about driving in France
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in France?
IDP recommended for foreign visitors. EU/EEA licences need no IDP. Non-EU visitors should carry an IDP (required if your licence is not in the Latin alphabet).
Which side of the road does France drive on?
France 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 France?
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 Europe 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ukraine | IDP recommended | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| Italy | IDP required | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| Germany | IDP required | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| Greece | IDP required | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| United Kingdom | IDP recommended | Left-hand side | 17+ |
Further reading on driving in France
- International Driving Permit France: Your Complete GuideLearn everything about the international driving permit france requirements, validity, and how to apply before your road
- Does France Require an International Driver's License?Does France require an international driver's license? Learn about the rules and get your International Driving Permit t
- Do You Need International Driver's License in France?Discover if you need an international driver's license in France and learn how to get one, ensuring a smooth drive abroa
- Do You Need an International Driver's License in France?Discover if you need an international driver's license in France and learn how to get one, ensuring a smooth driving exp
Other countries
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 France before you travel.