International Driving Permit for Italy
International Driving Permit for Italy: IDP required for foreign visitors. Driving side, minimum age, and how to get your IDP for Italy online in minutes.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Italy?
Non-EU/EEA visitors must carry an IDP with their national licence. EU/EEA licences are accepted on their own. 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 Italy
- Your valid national driver's licence
- Your International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Your passport and rental documents
How to get your IDP for Italy
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 Italy recognises
Italy 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 Italy
Italy 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 Italy is 18. Rental companies routinely set their own, higher minimum and often add a young-driver surcharge below 25.
Driving to Italy soon?
Get your digital International Driving Permit in minutes and drive worry-free.
Get my IDP →Common questions about driving in Italy
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Italy?
IDP required for foreign visitors. Non-EU/EEA visitors must carry an IDP with their national licence. EU/EEA licences are accepted on their own.
Which side of the road does Italy drive on?
Italy 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 Italy?
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belarus | IDP recommended | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| Albania | IDP recommended | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| Andorra | IDP recommended | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| Bosnia & Herzegovina | IDP recommended | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| Bulgaria | IDP recommended | Right-hand side | 18+ |
Further reading on driving in Italy
- Your Guide to an International Driving Permit Italy – FastLearn everything about the international driving permit italy: requirements, validity, and how to apply. Get your permit
- Avis Car Rental Italy: Driving Abroad Made EasyDiscover Avis car rental Italy and learn how to drive abroad with an International Driving Permit, get yours now and exp
- Do I Need International Driver's License in Italy?Find out if you need an international driver's license in Italy and learn how to get one, discover the requirements and
- Do I Need an International License to Drive in Italy?Discover if you need an international license to drive in Italy and learn how to get one, get your International Driving
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 Italy before you travel.