International Driving Document FAQ
Is this an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
No. An IDP is issued under the 1949 or 1968 road-traffic conventions by an organisation your government authorises, such as AAA or AATA in the United States. Our International Driving Document is a private translation of your licence. Where a country requires an IDP, you need the official one.
Who can order?
Anyone aged 18 or over with a valid, full driving licence. Learner and provisional licences can’t be translated, and the document is only valid together with your original licence.
How fast will I get it?
The PDF arrives by email within 24 hours of approving your application. The printed booklet ships the next business day: 5 to 10 business days by standard post, or 2 to 5 with express shipping.
How long is it valid?
For the 1, 2 or 3 years you choose, and never beyond the expiry date of your own licence.
Can I use it to rent a car?
Many rental companies ask for a translation when your licence isn’t in the local language or Latin script. Policies differ by company and branch, so check your rental terms. In countries that require an official IDP, rental desks will ask for that instead.
Where won’t it help?
Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and mainland China only accept official permits or local licences. Our country guides show what each destination expects.
What do I need to apply?
Your valid licence, a phone or computer to photograph both sides of it, a recent face photo and your signature, which you can draw on screen.
What if something on my document is wrong?
Tell us and we’ll correct and reissue it free, including a new booklet if needed.
Can I get a refund?
Yes, in full, at any time before your document is issued. After that, we refund if we can’t verify your application or if we made an error we can’t correct.
How do you handle my data?
Uploads travel over an encrypted connection and are stored encrypted. We use them only to make your document and delete licence images after 90 days. Details are in our privacy policy.