Driving in the United Kingdom — Do You Need an International Driving Permit?
Everything visitors need to know before driving in the United Kingdom — IDP requirements, car rental policies, and updated road laws for 2025.
Apply for Your International Driving Permit✅ Trusted by over 120,000 travelers · Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot
IDP Requirements in the United Kingdom
Driving in the United Kingdom as a visitor requires you to carry a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license was issued outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland. The IDP translates your national license into English, helping UK police and rental agencies verify its validity. Travelers from the USA, Canada, Asia, and the Middle East are strongly advised to obtain one before arrival.
Accepted Licenses
Licenses issued in the EU or EEA are accepted for temporary stays. Non-European licenses are valid for up to 12 months, provided they are in English or accompanied by an IDP. The UK recognizes the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP, which is required by most car rental companies, including Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise.
Driving Rules & Road Laws
The UK drives on the left-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the right. All passengers must wear seatbelts. Using a phone while driving is illegal unless it’s fully hands-free. Speed limits are 30 mph (48 km/h) in cities, 60 mph (97 km/h) on single carriageways, and 70 mph (113 km/h) on motorways. Strict enforcement with speed cameras is common across the country.
Car Rental Requirements
To rent a vehicle in the United Kingdom, you’ll need your valid driver’s license, a matching IDP if required, a passport, and a credit card in the driver’s name. Minimum age varies between 21 and 25 years, depending on the rental company. Insurance is mandatory and typically includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP). Always check local fuel and mileage policies before driving off.
Local Driving Tips
Roundabouts are a defining feature of UK roads — always give way to vehicles approaching from your right. Avoid driving in congested urban zones like central London during peak hours to bypass congestion charges. Use motorway service areas for safe rest stops, keep your IDP handy for verification, and always respect pedestrian crossings. For rural routes, be cautious of narrow lanes and wildlife crossings.
Get Ready to Drive in the United Kingdom
Apply for your IDP today and drive confidently across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Fast approval and global acceptance in 150+ countries.
Check Your IDP Eligibility
Instant eligibility check — no signup required.
190+ Countries
Instant Delivery
Secure Checkout
Frequently Asked Questions — Driving in the United Kingdom
Everything you need to know before driving as a visitor in the United Kingdom.
Do I need an International Driving Permit in the UK?
If your driver’s license was issued in the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you can drive in the UK without an IDP. Drivers from outside these regions (such as the USA, Canada, or Asia) are often required to carry an IDP for short visits.
Which IDP format is accepted in the UK?
The United Kingdom recognizes the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP. It must be presented alongside your valid national driver’s license.
How long can I drive in the UK with a foreign license?
Visitors can usually drive for up to 12 months using their foreign license and IDP. After that, a UK license is required for residents.
Can I rent a car in the UK without an IDP?
Most major rental agencies such as Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise require an IDP if your license is not in English or Roman characters. Always confirm requirements before booking.
Is driving in the UK difficult for foreigners?
Traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road. Roundabouts and narrow lanes are common, so drive cautiously and obey local speed limits — typically 30 mph in cities and 70 mph on motorways.