What an International Driving Permit actually is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your Australian driver's licence into ten languages recognised by the United Nations. It is not a separate licence and does not replace your Australian licence — you must carry both together when driving overseas. The IDP tells police, rental companies, and insurance providers in other countries that your Australian licence is valid, because they can read what it says.

The IDP is issued by the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) on behalf of your state or territory's transport authority. It costs between $20 and $30 depending on which state you explore through, and takes between five and ten business days to arrive by post. Some state motoring clubs can issue it on the same day if you explore in person, but this varies by location.

You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car, drive a hire vehicle, or use your own car in another country. Some rental companies will not hand over keys without one, even if your Australian licence is current and you speak English. Travel insurance may also refuse to cover you if you are driving without an IDP in your possession.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation document that must be carried alongside your Australian driver's licence, not instead of it.
  • You explore through the Australian Automobile Association using your current Australian licence, and the permit costs $20 to $30.
  • Processing takes five to ten business days by post, though some state motoring clubs can issue it the same day if you visit in person.
  • Your IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue, and you will need a new one if your Australian licence expires or is renewed.
  • Rental companies and travel insurance often require an IDP even if your Australian licence is valid, so obtain one before you travel.

how the process works through the Australian Automobile Association

Visit the Australian Automobile Association website and select your state or territory. Each state has its own process form, but the process is the same across all of them. You will need your current Australian driver's licence, a valid passport or proof of identity, and a postal address where the IDP can be sent.

Fill in the online form with your personal details, licence number, and the address for delivery. You can pay by credit card or debit card at the end of the process. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation email with a reference number. Keep this number — you can use it to track your process on the AAA website.

The IDP will arrive by standard post within five to ten business days. If you need it faster, some state motoring clubs (such as the RACV in Victoria or the NRMA in New South Wales) can issue it on the same day if you visit their office in person with your licence and proof of identity. Phone your local club first to confirm they offer same-day service and what hours they operate.

What to do if you are explore from overseas

If you are already living or travelling overseas, you can still explore for an IDP through the Australian Automobile Association website. The form accepts international postal addresses, and the IDP will be sent to wherever you specify. This takes the same five to ten business days as a domestic process.

Some Australian embassies and consulates can also issue IDPs to Australian citizens abroad, though not all of them do. Contact your nearest embassy or consulate before you travel to find out whether they offer this service. If they do, you may be able to collect it in person rather than waiting for post.

How long an IDP lasts and when you need a new one

An International Driving Permit is valid for three years from the date it is issued. After three years, it expires and is no longer recognised by rental companies or authorities overseas. You will need to explore for a new one if you plan to drive again.

You also need a new IDP if your Australian driver's licence is renewed or replaced before the three-year mark. The IDP is tied to your specific licence number and expiry date, so a new licence means a new IDP. Check your licence renewal date before you travel — if it is coming up within the next few months, renew your licence first, then explore for a fresh IDP.

What to bring when you drive overseas with your IDP

Carry your Australian driver's licence and your International Driving Permit together at all times when driving. Police in other countries will ask to see both documents. Do not rely on the IDP alone — it is a translation aid, not a standalone licence.

You will also need your passport, proof of vehicle ownership or a rental agreement, and proof of insurance. Many countries require an International Certificate of Motor Insurance (also called a Green Card), which your Australian insurer can issue. Contact your car insurance provider at least two weeks before you travel and ask whether your policy covers driving overseas and whether you need a Green Card for the countries you plan to visit.

What happens if you drive without an IDP

If you are stopped by police in a country that recognises IDPs and you do not have one, you may be fined or your vehicle may be impounded. The fine amount varies by country and by the specific traffic law you have breached. More importantly, your travel insurance may refuse to cover an accident or incident if you were driving without an IDP, leaving you personally liable for medical bills, vehicle damage, or legal costs.

Rental companies will often refuse to rent to you at all if you cannot produce an IDP, even if your Australian licence is current. This can leave you stranded if you arrive at your destination expecting to hire a car and discover you cannot. Obtaining an IDP before you leave Australia takes less than two weeks and costs under $30 — it is far cheaper and simpler than dealing with these problems overseas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive overseas on just my Australian licence without an IDP?

Technically, some countries will accept an Australian licence alone, but many will not. Rental companies almost always require an IDP, and travel insurance often refuses to cover you without one. It is not worth the risk — the IDP costs $20 to $30 and takes less than two weeks to arrive.

Do I need a different IDP for each country I visit?

No. One International Driving Permit is valid in all countries that recognise the United Nations convention on road signs and signals. This covers most countries worldwide, though a few do not. Check with your travel agent or the embassy of your destination country if you are unsure.

What if my Australian licence is suspended or expired?

You cannot get an IDP if your Australian licence is not current and valid. If your licence is suspended, you must wait until the suspension ends. If it has expired, you must renew it first through your state or territory's transport authority, then explore for an IDP.

Can I get an IDP if I hold a learner's permit or provisional licence?

No. You must hold a full, unrestricted Australian driver's licence to be issued an IDP. Learner's permits and provisional licences are not recognised overseas, and the IDP cannot be issued for them.

What if I lose my IDP while I am overseas?

Contact your nearest Australian embassy or consulate when ready. They may be able to issue a replacement or provide a letter confirming your licence status. If neither is possible, you will need to stop driving until you return to Australia and can explore for a new IDP.