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Driving in United Kingdom with a foreign licence

Driving in United Kingdom: IDP recommended for foreign visitors — driving side, minimum age and how to get your International Driving Permit online.

IDP status
IDP recommended
Drives on
Left-hand side
Convention
Geneva 1949 & Vienna 1968
Min. age
17+

Do you need an IDP to drive in United Kingdom?

Many foreign licences are accepted for short visits; an IDP is recommended for licences from non-convention countries. 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 United Kingdom

How to get your IDP for United Kingdom

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.

Driving to United Kingdom soon?

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

Get my IDP →

Other countries

ItalyFranceSpainGermanyIreland

Read more in our travel guides.

Driving rules change and can vary by region and nationality. Always confirm the current requirements with the official transport authority or embassy of United Kingdom before you travel.