Driving in Germany with a foreign licence
Driving in Germany: IDP required for foreign visitors — driving side, minimum age and how to get your International Driving Permit online.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Germany?
Non-EU/EEA visitors must hold an IDP alongside their national licence (valid up to 6 months). 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 Germany
- Your valid national driver's licence
- Your International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Your passport and rental documents
How to get your IDP for Germany
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 Germany soon?
Get your digital International Driving Permit in minutes and drive worry-free.
Get my IDP →Other countries
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 Germany before you travel.