Trusted by thousands of clients from
Complete Guide to Obtaining Your IDP Driving Licence
If you’re planning to drive abroad, it’s essential to have the correct documentation. Depending on the country you’re visiting, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) when driving a car or motorbike. This guide will provide a complete overview of how to obtain your IDP driving licence.
Key Takeaways
- An IDP driving licence is necessary for UK residents who plan to drive abroad.
- Applying for an IDP driving licence is a straightforward process, but you’ll need to provide the necessary documentation.
- Renewing or extending your IDP driving licence is also possible if required.
What is an IDP Driving Licence?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a legal document that allows UK residents to drive in countries where a UK licence alone is not sufficient. It is recognized in over 140 countries and is available in several languages. An IDP validates your existing driving licence and provides a translation of your details for foreign authorities.
The IDP is not a standalone licence, and it must be accompanied by your UK driving licence while driving abroad. It is important to note that the IDP does not replace your licence or the need to carry it. You must still have your UK driving licence with you at all times as proof of your entitlement to drive.
If you need to drive abroad, it is essential to apply for an IDP well in advance of your trip. The process is straightforward, and the permit is valid for 12 months from the date of issue.
Who Needs an IDP Driving Licence?
An IDP driving licence is required by UK residents who wish to drive in foreign countries where their UK driving licence is not recognized. It is also a legal requirement for non-UK residents who intend to drive in the UK with a non-UK driving licence.
If you hold a UK driving licence, you may need an IDP driving licence if you plan to drive in a country that requires one. The requirements vary depending on the country you are visiting, so it’s important to check before you travel.
When is an IDP Driving Licence Required?
An IDP driving licence is required for driving in countries that are not party to the Geneva Convention on Road Traffic or the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, which established the standards for international driving permits.
The IDP driving licence is also required for driving in countries that have signed the conventions but do not recognize foreign driving licences or have additional driving requirements beyond those established by the conventions.
It’s worth noting that an IDP driving licence is not a replacement for a UK driving licence. You must hold a valid UK driving licence in addition to the IDP driving licence to legally drive in the UK.
How to Apply for an IDP Driving Licence
Obtaining an IDP driving licence is a simple process for UK residents who hold a full driving licence. Follow these step-by-step instructions to apply for your IDP driving licence:
- Gather the required documents, including a valid UK driving licence, a passport-sized photo, and your National Insurance number.
- Complete the IDP application form, which can be downloaded from the Post Office website or collected in-store.
- Bring the completed application form, your UK driving licence, photo, and a fee of £5.50 to your local Post Office branch.
- Submit your application and wait for your IDP driving licence to be processed. The processing time may vary depending on demand.
- Once your IDP driving licence has been processed, it will be sent to you by mail. Make sure to sign the licence and carry it with you while driving abroad.
Please note that you cannot apply for an IDP driving licence more than three months before your planned travel date. Additionally, your IDP driving licence is only valid for one year from the date of issue, so make sure to renew it before it expires if necessary.
How to Apply for an IDP Driving Licence if You Have a Provisional Licence
If you hold a provisional driving licence, you must first pass your driving test and obtain a full UK driving licence before applying for an IDP driving licence. Once you have your full licence, you can follow the same application process outlined above.
Documents and Requirements for IDP Driving Licence Application
To ensure a successful IDP driving licence application, you must provide the right documents and fulfill certain requirements. Here’s what you need to know:
Documents Required for IDP Driving Licence Application
When applying for an IDP driving licence, you must provide the following documents:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Full UK driving licence | You must have a full UK driving licence that is valid for at least three months after the date of your application. If your licence has been recently renewed, you may need to provide your old licence and the renewal confirmation. |
| Passport-sized photograph | You must provide a recent passport-sized photograph that meets the DVLA’s photo requirements. |
| Completed IDP application form | You can download the IDP application form from the Post Office website or get a copy from your local branch. Make sure to fill in all the required information accurately. |
If you are applying by post, you will also need to provide a pre-paid Royal Mail Special Delivery envelope for the return of your IDP driving licence.
Requirements for IDP Driving Licence Application
In addition to the necessary documents, there are certain requirements you must meet in order to apply for an IDP driving licence:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must hold a full UK driving licence.
- You must be a resident of Great Britain or Northern Ireland.
- You must have held your UK driving licence for at least 12 months.
- You must not be disqualified from driving or have your licence suspended.
It’s important to note that IDP driving licences are only valid for one year from the date of issue, so you’ll need to renew it if you plan on driving abroad after that period.
IDP Driving Licence Fees and Processing Time
It is important to note that there is a fee associated with obtaining an IDP driving licence. The current fee for a standard IDP driving licence is £5.50. However, it is essential to verify the amount payable on the official government website before making any payments.
The processing time for an IDP driving licence application is usually three to five working days, but it may take up to ten working days during peak periods or if additional verification is necessary. It is best to apply well in advance of your planned travel date to ensure that you receive your IDP driving licence on time.
If you require your IDP driving licence urgently, you can use the Post Office’s check and send service. This service guarantees that your application will be processed within one working day of receipt by the DVLA and dispatched to you by first-class post. The current fee for this service is £16.50 plus the standard IDP driving licence fee.
| Fees | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| £5.50 | 3-5 working days |
| £16.50 + £5.50 (standard fee) | 1 working day (Post Office check and send service) |
It is important to note that these fees and processing times are subject to change, so we recommend verifying the information on the official government website before beginning the application process.
Driving in the UK with an IDP Driving Licence
Once you have obtained your International Driving Permit (IDP) driving licence, you may be wondering what the rules and regulations are for driving in the UK. Here’s what you need to know.
Validity of IDP Driving Licence in the UK
If you are a UK resident and planning to drive in the UK, you must have a valid UK driving licence along with an IDP driving licence. The IDP driving licence only serves as a translation of your existing driving licence, and is not a substitute for it. Your IDP driving licence is only valid if you have a valid driving licence from your home country.
It is important to note that the IDP driving licence is only valid for a maximum of 12 months. If you plan to continue driving in the UK beyond that time, you must apply for a UK driving licence.
Driving Restrictions with IDP Driving Licence
While driving in the UK with your IDP driving licence, you are required to follow the same rules and regulations as any other driver. The IDP driving licence does not exempt you from any traffic laws or regulations.
If your existing driving licence has any driving restrictions, such as automatic transmission only, those restrictions will also apply to your IDP driving licence in the UK.
Insurance and IDP Driving Licence
It is important to ensure that your insurance policy covers you for driving with an IDP driving licence in the UK. Some insurance policies may require you to obtain a UK driving licence within a certain time period. Check with your insurance provider to confirm what coverage is provided with your IDP driving licence.
Additionally, if you plan to rent a car in the UK, make sure that the rental company accepts an IDP driving licence as a valid form of identification.
Renewing or Extending Your IDP Driving Licence
If you are planning on driving abroad, it’s important to ensure that your International Driving Permit (IDP) is valid and up to date. IDPs are valid for one year and can be renewed or extended depending on your specific requirements.
Renewing Your IDP Driving Licence
If your IDP is due to expire or has already expired, you can renew it by following the same application process as when you initially applied for your IDP. This means completing an application form, providing the necessary documents and paying the required fee. The process is typically straightforward and can be completed online or by post.
It’s important to note that you are only able to renew your IDP within three months of its expiry date. If it has been expired for more than three months, you will need to apply for a new IDP instead.
Extending Your IDP Driving Licence
If you wish to extend your IDP beyond its one-year validity period, you may be able to do so depending on the requirements of the country you are travelling to. In some cases, an extended IDP may be required for stays longer than one year.
To extend your IDP, you will need to follow the same application process as when you initially applied for your IDP. This means completing an application form, providing the necessary documents and paying the required fee. It’s important to research the specific requirements for the country you will be travelling to in order to determine whether an extended IDP is necessary.
It’s worth noting that not all countries accept extended IDPs, so it’s important to check with the relevant authorities before applying for an extension.
Overall, renewing or extending your IDP is a straightforward process as long as you meet the necessary requirements. By ensuring that your IDP is valid and up to date, you can enjoy safe and legal driving when travelling abroad.
IDP Driving Licence FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about acquiring and using an IDP driving licence in the United Kingdom.
Who is eligible for an IDP driving licence?
If you possess a valid UK driving licence and are planning to drive in a foreign country that requires an International Driving Permit, then you are eligible to apply for an IDP driving licence.
How long is an IDP driving licence valid for?
An IDP driving licence is valid for 12 months from the date of issue.
What documents do I need to provide when applying for an IDP driving licence?
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Passport-sized photograph | One recent photograph that follows the UK passport photo rules. |
| Valid UK driving licence | You must have a valid UK driving licence with at least 3 months of validity remaining. |
| Proof of address | This must be an original document and dated within 3 months of application date. |
Note: You can apply for an IDP driving licence up to 3 months before you travel.
Can I use an IDP driving licence to drive in the UK?
No, an IDP driving licence is only valid when driving abroad and is not valid for driving within the UK.
How much does an IDP driving licence cost?
The cost for an IDP driving licence is £5.50 and it can be obtained from the Post Office.
How long does it take to receive an IDP driving licence?
You should receive your IDP driving licence within 5 to 7 working days from the date of application.
Can I renew my IDP driving licence?
Yes, you can renew your IDP driving licence by applying for a new one before the expiration date of your current licence. However, you must provide a new photograph and reapply with all the necessary documents.
Can I extend my IDP driving licence?
No, you cannot extend the validity period of your IDP driving licence. If you require an IDP driving licence beyond the 12-month validity period, you must apply for a new one.
What happens if I lose my IDP driving licence?
If you lose your IDP driving licence while travelling abroad, you can apply for a replacement at a local consulate or embassy in the country you are visiting. If you lose your IDP driving licence in the UK, you can apply for a replacement at the Post Office.
Conclusion
In conclusion, obtaining an International Driving Permit is essential for UK residents planning to drive in countries not covered by their UK driving licence. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of the steps involved in obtaining an IDP driving licence, from understanding what it is and who needs it to the application process and renewal procedures. It is important to note that the application process may vary depending on the region and country you are travelling to, so it is recommended to check the specific requirements beforehand. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that all necessary documents and fees are submitted within the required timeframe to avoid delays or rejection of the application. Driving with an IDP driving licence in the UK follows the same rules and regulations as driving with a UK driving licence. However, it is important to be aware of the expiration date of your IDP driving licence and to renew or extend it when necessary. Overall, obtaining an IDP driving licence is a straightforward process that can provide peace of mind for UK residents planning to drive abroad. With the information provided in this guide, you should be well-equipped to obtain your own IDP driving licence and enjoy safe and legal driving in the countries you plan to visit.
FAQ
Q: What is an IDP Driving Licence?
A: An IDP driving licence, also known as an International Driving Permit, is an official document that allows UK residents to drive in foreign countries where the UK driving licence alone may not be recognized.
Q: Who needs an IDP Driving Licence?
A: UK residents who plan to drive in foreign countries that require an IDP driving licence, such as many countries outside of the EU, will need to obtain one.
Q: How to apply for an IDP Driving Licence?
A: To apply for an IDP driving licence, you can visit your local post office and complete an application form. You will also need to provide a valid UK driving licence, passport-sized photographs, and the relevant application fee.
Q: What documents and requirements are needed for an IDP Driving Licence application?
A: When applying for an IDP driving licence, you will need to submit your valid UK driving licence, two passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, proof of identity and address, and the appropriate application fee.
Q: What are the IDP Driving Licence fees and processing time?
A: The current fee for an IDP driving licence is £5.50. The processing time can vary, but it is usually around 5-10 working days.
Q: Can I drive in the UK with an IDP Driving Licence?
A: No, an IDP driving licence is only valid for driving in foreign countries. If you are a UK resident, you must have a valid UK driving licence to drive in the UK.
Q: How do I renew or extend my IDP Driving Licence?
A: To renew or extend your IDP driving licence, you will need to complete a new application and provide the required documents and fees. It is recommended to start the renewal or extension process at least three months before your current IDP driving licence expires.
Q: What are some common IDP Driving Licence FAQs?
A: Some common IDP driving licence FAQs include: How long is an IDP driving licence valid for? Can I use an IDP driving licence in all countries? Can I apply for an IDP driving licence online?