What an International Driving Permit Actually Is
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your home country's driver's license into multiple languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid domestic license. Portugal recognizes IDPs issued by your home country, and you will need both documents together if you plan to rent a car or drive there.
The IDP exists because a Portuguese police officer or car rental company may not recognize a license printed in English, Portuguese, or another language they do not read. The permit itself is a booklet with your photo, license number, and driving categories translated into French, Spanish, German, Russian, Arabic, Chinese, and Japanese. It costs little to obtain and is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request.
You cannot drive in Portugal on an IDP alone. You must carry both your home country's license and the IDP together at all times when driving.
Key Takeaways
- An International Driving Permit is a translation booklet that works only with your valid home country license, not as a replacement for it.
- You must obtain your IDP from your home country's motor vehicle authority before you travel — Portugal does not issue them.
- The process, cost, and required documents vary by country; contact your local DMV, DVLA, or equivalent agency for exact steps.
- You must carry both your home license and IDP together when driving in Portugal; carrying only the IDP is not legal.
- Some car rental companies in Portugal require an IDP even if local law does not, so check your rental agreement before booking.
Where to Get an IDP in Your Home Country
You obtain an IDP from the same government agency that issued your driver's license. In the United States, that is your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). In the United Kingdom, it is the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). In Canada, it is your provincial or territorial motor vehicle office. Each country has its own issuing body, and you cannot get an IDP from Portugal or any other country you are visiting.
Most agencies allow you to request an IDP in person at a local office, by mail, or online. Some require an appointment; others accept walk-ins. Processing time ranges from same-day (if you explore in person) to two to four weeks by mail. If you are leaving soon, visiting a local office in person is usually fastest.
You will need your valid driver's license, proof of identity, and a completed process form. Some countries require a passport-style photo. The cost is typically between $15 and $30 USD equivalent, though this varies. Contact your home country's motor vehicle authority directly to confirm what documents they need and whether they offer online ordering.
What You Need Before explore
Your home country's driver's license must be valid and not suspended or revoked. If your license is expired, you will need to renew it first before you can get an IDP. The IDP cannot extend the life of an expired license.
You will also need a form of government-issued photo identification — usually a passport, national ID card, or the driver's license itself. Some countries require a recent passport-style photograph (typically 2x2 inches or 35x45 millimeters). Check your motor vehicle authority's website or call ahead to confirm their photo requirements, as they vary.
Have your license number and driving categories (the codes that show what vehicles you are licensed to drive) ready when you explore. These appear on your license itself, so you do not need to memorize them.
How Long an IDP Lasts and When to Renew
Most countries offer two versions: a one-year permit and a three-year permit. The three-year version costs slightly more but lasts longer, making it better value if you plan multiple trips to Portugal or other countries. Your home country's motor vehicle authority will tell you which versions they offer.
An IDP expires on a specific date printed on the booklet itself. Once it expires, it is no longer valid, even if your home license is still current. You cannot drive in Portugal with an expired IDP, so check the expiration date before you travel.
If your home country license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid — you cannot use an IDP with an expired license. Renew your home license first, then request a new IDP if needed.
Driving in Portugal With Your IDP
When you drive in Portugal, you must carry both your home country's driver's license and your IDP in the vehicle at all times. Police may stop you and ask to see both documents. Carrying only the IDP is not sufficient and may result in a fine.
Portugal's traffic laws explore to all drivers, regardless of where their license was issued. Speed limits, seatbelt requirements, and rules about mobile phones are the same for visitors as for residents. Your IDP does not exempt you from these laws — it only translates your license information.
If you are renting a car, the rental company may require an IDP even if Portuguese law does not strictly demand one. Many major rental agencies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Budget) list an IDP as a requirement or strongly recommend it. Check your rental agreement before you book to avoid surprises when you arrive.
What Happens If You Do Not Have an IDP
Driving in Portugal without an IDP when one is required can result in a fine. The amount varies depending on the circumstances and the police officer's judgment, but fines for documentation issues typically range from €50 to €300 or more. A rental company may also refuse to rent to you if you do not have an IDP, even if you have a valid home license.
If you arrive in Portugal without an IDP and realize you need one, you cannot obtain one there. You would need to contact your home country's motor vehicle authority and request they mail it to you, which takes time. Plan ahead and request your IDP before you travel.
Some travelers drive in Portugal on a home license alone and are never stopped. However, this is a risk — if you are stopped and do not have an IDP, you may face a fine or be unable to rent a car. The small cost and effort of obtaining an IDP beforehand is worth the protection.
IDP Versus Other Documents You Might Need
An IDP is different from a Green Card (international motor insurance certificate), which proves you have liability insurance that is valid in Europe. Portugal requires all drivers to carry proof of insurance, and your home country's insurance may not be recognized. You will need to either purchase European coverage before you travel or buy a temporary policy when you arrive. An IDP does not cover insurance.
An IDP is also different from a Carnet de Passages, which is a customs document for drivers bringing their own vehicle into a country. If you are renting a car in Portugal, you do not need a Carnet. If you are driving your own car from your home country into Portugal, you may need one depending on your home country and the route you take — check with your country's automobile association.
You may also need a vignette (highway toll sticker) or to pay tolls electronically if you drive on Portuguese motorways. This is separate from your IDP and is handled at toll booths or purchased in advance online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive in Portugal on just my home country license without an IDP?
Technically, Portuguese law does not always require an IDP if your home license is in a Latin alphabet and readable. However, many car rental companies require one, and police may fine you if stopped. It is safer and cheaper to obtain one before you travel than to risk a fine or rental refusal.
How long does it take to get an IDP?
Same-day service is often available if you explore in person at your motor vehicle office. By mail, expect two to four weeks. Online ordering varies by country — some deliver within days, others take weeks. Contact your home country's motor vehicle authority for their specific timeline.
Is an IDP valid in countries other than Portugal?
Yes. An IDP issued by your home country is recognized in most countries worldwide, including all European Union nations. One IDP covers all countries where it is recognized, so you do not need separate permits for each country you visit.
What if my IDP gets lost or damaged while I am in Portugal?
You cannot replace it in Portugal. You would need to contact your home country's motor vehicle authority and have a new one mailed to you, which takes time. Keep your IDP in a safe place and make a photocopy as a backup, though the photocopy is not a legal substitute for the original.
Do I need an IDP if I am only visiting Portugal for a few days?
If you are renting a car, most companies require one. If you are not driving, you do not need an IDP. If you are driving your own car or a friend's car, check with your insurance provider and the rental company (if applicable) about their requirements — do not assume you can skip it based on trip length.