You need your US driver's license, not an international one, but Greece requires a certified English translation
Greece accepts your valid US driver's license as your primary driving document. You do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car or drive legally there. However, Greek law requires that your license be accompanied by an official English translation — not a photocopy or a translation you make yourself. Without this translation, police can fine you or refuse to let you drive, even though your US license is valid.
The translation must be certified by a notary or an official translator. Some car rental companies will accept a translation done by their own staff at pickup, but this varies by company and location. The safest approach is to have the translation completed before you leave the United States.
Key Takeaways
- Your US driver's license is legal in Greece, but Greek authorities require an official English translation to accompany it at all times while driving.
- An International Driving Permit is optional in Greece and not required, though some travelers carry one as backup documentation.
- The translation must be certified by a notary public or professional translator — a DIY translation or photocopy will not satisfy Greek police.
- Most car rental companies in Greece will ask to see both your US license and its translation before handing over keys.
- If you forget the translation, some rental agencies can provide one on the spot, but this is not may provide and may delay your pickup.
How to get an official English translation of your US driver's license
You have two main routes: use a notary public in the United States before you travel, or arrange a translation through a professional translator. A notary public can certify that a translation is accurate, though the notary themselves does not perform the translation — you will need to provide the translated text or hire a translator first.
The fastest method is to contact a professional translation service in your home state. Search for "certified translator [your state]" and call ahead to confirm they translate driver's licenses and can complete the work within your timeline. Most charge between $15 and $50 for a single-page translation. Ask whether they will notarize it as well, since some do both services in one visit.
Alternatively, some AAA offices offer translation services for members, though availability varies by location. Call your local AAA chapter to ask whether they translate driver's licenses and how long the process takes.
What to do if you arrive in Greece without a translation
If you rent a car without the translation, contact the rental company when ready and ask whether they can provide one. Many larger agencies in Athens, Thessaloniki, and other major cities have staff who can translate your license on the spot or direct you to a local translator. This usually takes a few hours and may cost €10 to €30.
If the rental company cannot help, ask them for the address of a local translator or notary. In Greece, these are called metafrasti (translators) or symvoleografos (notary). Your hotel concierge can also point you to one nearby. Have your license translated before you drive, since operating a vehicle without the translation can result in a fine from Greek police.
Should you get an International Driving Permit anyway?
An International Driving Permit is not required in Greece and does not replace your US license or its translation. However, some travelers carry one as additional backup documentation, particularly if they plan to rent a car in multiple countries during the same trip. An IDP is valid for one year and costs $20 through AAA in the United States.
The main advantage of an IDP is that it translates your license information into multiple languages, which can be useful if you cross into other countries or if a Greek police officer is unfamiliar with US licenses. The main disadvantage is that it is an extra document to carry and does not reduce the requirement for an English translation of your actual license.
What Greek police will ask for at a traffic stop
If stopped by police, have both your US driver's license and its English translation ready. Greek officers will check that your license is valid, that the translation matches the license, and that your license has not expired. They will also ask for proof of insurance and vehicle registration — make sure your rental agreement includes proof of insurance before you drive away from the agency.
Driving without the translation is treated as driving without a valid license in Greece and can result in a fine of €200 or more. The fine is issued on the spot and must be paid before you leave the country or the rental company may hold your deposit.
Renting a car with your US license
All major car rental companies in Greece (Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar) accept US driver's licenses. At pickup, you will need to show your license, a translation of it, your passport, and a credit card in your name. Some companies require you to be at least 21 years old; others set the minimum at 25 and charge a young driver fee for anyone under 25.
When you arrive at the rental counter, tell the agent upfront whether you have a translation. If you do not, ask when ready whether they can provide one or direct you to a translator. Do not leave the rental location without confirming that you have the translation, since driving without it puts you at legal risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a photocopy of my driver's license translation?
No. Greek police want to see an original certified translation or a translation certified by a notary. A photocopy of a translation is not accepted. If you have the original translation with you, you can make a photocopy to carry as backup, but the original should stay with you while driving.
What if my US driver's license is expired?
An expired US license is not valid for driving in Greece, even with a translation. Renew your license before you travel. If you are already in Greece and your license expired, you cannot legally drive a rental car.
Do I need a translation if I am only driving in Cyprus or another country after Greece?
Each country has its own rules. Cyprus also requires an English translation of your US license. Other European countries may accept your US license without a translation, or they may require an International Driving Permit. Check the requirements for each country before you travel.
Will my travel insurance cover me if I am fined for driving without a translation?
Most travel insurance policies do not cover fines for traffic violations or driving without required documents. The fine is your responsibility. This is another reason to obtain the translation before you leave the United States.
Can I get a translation done in Greece before I pick up the rental car?
Yes, but it requires advance planning. Contact a translator in the city where you will rent the car and arrange to meet them before your rental pickup time. This is slower and more complicated than having the translation done in the US, so it is best used only as a backup plan.