International Driving Permits

In Australia, the Government appointed the Australian Automobile Association as the only authority to issue permits. As a member of the AAA, the RACV issues IDPs through RACV Shops.

Please be advised that although it is not mandatory to have an
International Drivers Licence to rent a car with Europeshoppe.com.au
in Europe it is recommended for driving in Europe in the event the renter
is stopped by the police. The International Drivers licence
translates the licence from English to other languages.

Where will I need an IDP?

There are three possible categories:

IDP required - You will need your Australian Drivers Licence and an IDP to drive in these countries.
IDP recommended - Although certain countries don't specifically ask for IDP's we recommend you take one.
IDP not required - Your Australian Drivers Licence is sufficient for driving in these countries.

See below for IDP requirements of each country:

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How much does an IDP cost?

An IDP costs $27 each. If an IDP is required through the mail postage fees will apply (refer to attached application form).

How to apply for an IDP?

To obtain an IDP you can visit your nearest RACV Shop with your current Australian Drivers Licence and a recent passport size photo.

If applying for an IDP outside of Australia print out the IDP application form provided and enclose a clear copy of your current Australian Drivers Licence (both front and back), a recent passport size photo and payment including postage fees. Another option is to send your application to a family member or friend who can arrange the IDP on your behalf and send it back to you.

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How does an IDP work for you?

International Driving Permits (IDP) entitle the holder to drive motor vehicles specified in the IDP and in all counteracting countries without further examination.

An IDP is valid for 12 months from the date of issue unless the holder's domestic driving licence expires or is revoked in the meantime.

It in no way diminishes the obligation of the holder to conform strictly to the laws and regulation relating to residence or the exercise of a profession which are in force in each country visited.

A person may apply for a further permit. Such applications must be accompanied by the applicant's current Australian Driving Licence or photocopy of, and a passport size photograph colour or black and white (photocopy/facsimile not acceptable) and the fee applicable at the time.

The holder of an IDP should be advised to carry their current domestic driving licence while overseas.

SPECIAL NOTE: IDPs may NOT be issued to persons under 18 years of age regardless of whether they hold a national driving licence. In addition, IDPs cannot be issued to holders of Learner Permits Licences or other limited/restricted use licences, issued under the directive of a State Court of Law.

There is no upper age limit for the use of IDPs.

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Contact us

Victoria:
Call RACV on 13 19 55 or from overseas +61 3 9790 2211. Or fax RACV at (03) 9790 2628.

For more information on International Driving Permits, contact the automobile club in your state or territory. Refer to the Reciprocal automobile clubs table for the contact details.

Queensland:
RACQ Ltd.(Royal Automobile Club of Queensland Limited)
Address: 300 St Pauls Terrace
Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
Tel: (07) 3361 2829
Fax: (07) 3854 1352

New South Whales:
NRMA City Branch
Address: Touring Counter
74-76 King Street
Sydney, NSW 2000

Tasmania:
RACT(Royal Automobile Club of Tasmania Limited)

South Australia:
RAA(Royal Automobile Association of South Australia, Inc)
Tel: (08) 8202 4600

Northern Territory:
AANT(Automobile Association of Northern Territory Inc)
Tel: (08) 8981 3837

Western Territory:
RAC(Royal Automobile Club of Western Australia (Incorporated)
Tel: (08) 9421 4444

Download an IDP application form

Download an IDP application form here. (It may take a few moments)