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International Driving Permits

International Driving Permit

Drive abroad worry-free with an official IDP.
Apply online
Family holiday plane IDP

What is an International Driving Permit?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a translation of your current Australian driver licence available in nine languages. IDPs are officially sanctioned by the United Nations and accepted worldwide (in over 150 countries).

They are valid for 12 months from date of issue.

The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) is the only authorised body to sell International Driving Permits (IDP) in Australia. NRMA is an authorised sales agent of the AAA.

Travelling overseas soon? Don't forget members can save up to 10% on NRMA travel insurance^ and up to 15% on international car rental bookings with SIXT.

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Not sure if you need a permit?

Not sure if you need a permit?

Check if the country you're travelling to requires an International Drivers Permit.
Check countries

What do I need to apply?

How to apply?

You can apply online or at all Service NSW branches
From 1 February 2025, only select NRMA Insurance branches will issue IDPs. From 1 April 2025, NRMA Insurance will no longer issue IDP’s.

Apply online

Simply apply online, and have your IDP mailed to you.
From

$51

Dispatched within 24 hours.
Posted via tracked mail to arrive within 3-5 business days (allow more time for regional areas)
Apply online
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Travelling in less than 5 days?

Travelling in less than 5 days?

Same-day rush service available through Service NSW.

Find a Service NSW branch
Australian Automobile Association logo

The Australian Automobile Association

The Australian Automobile Association

The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) is the only authorised body to sell International Driving Permits (IDP) in Australia. The NRMA is an authorised sales agent of the AAA. It is highly recommended by the Australian government for travellers to obtain an IDP prior to leaving Australia. In most countries, driving without an IDP is equivalent to driving without valid insurance.

Members get all the travel perks and benefits

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Frequently asked questions

Why do I need an International Driving Permit?
If you’re planning on driving overseas an International Driving Permit (IDP) is an official United Nations and Australian Government document advising local authorities and car rental companies that you are licenced to drive in Australia. Local authorities and car rental companies may require you hold an IDP in order to drive or rent a vehicle. We recommend having an IDP, however the requirement to have one is subject to change by local authorities and car rental companies.
What countries accept an International Driving Permit?
International Driving Permits, also sometimes referred to as international driving licences, are recognised in over 150 countries around the world. View the IDP directory to find out if the country you are visiting requires an IDP, which side of the road to drive on and the recommended automotive club in case of emergencies. To use the directory, select the first letter of the country you are visiting.
Are international driving licences the same as International Driving Permits?
No, there's actually no such licence. An International Driving Permit is a United Nations sanctioned document and will always have "Convention on International Road Traffic of 19 September, 1949" on its cover. Counterfeit IDP's or licences usually don't show this anywhere. IDPs are only available from State and Territory Motoring clubs such as the NRMA.
How much is an International Driving Permit?
The cost of an IDP is $51.00 AUD (GST free). Additional costs may apply for postage and handling.
What is the quickest way to get an IDP?
The quickest way to get an International Driving Permit NSW is to apply in store at any Service NSW branch where you can receive your IDP on the spot. Please remember to bring a passport style photo, 35mm to 40mm wide and 45mm to 50mm high, taken no more than six months ago, plus your current Australian driver licence (learner permits not accepted). Full details on the photo requirements can be found on https://www.mynrmaidp.com.au.
If I apply online how long will it take?
Looking to apply for an International Driving Permit (also known as an international driving licence)? Whether you're looking for an IDP in Sydney or IDP Brisbane, applying online is easy. Simply choose your state from the dropdown box on the mynrmaidp.com.au website to get started.

For an IDP sent to an Australian address please allow between 3 to 5 working days from the time it is submitted (depending on the postal service selected). For IDP’s that are to be sent to an overseas address please allow 10 or more working days (depending on postal service selected and destination).

Apply for an IDP Australia online today.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid for?
Your IDP is valid for 12 months from the date of issue or the expiry of your Australian licence (whichever comes first).
I’m leaving in less than 7 days, what can I do?
If you are leaving in less than 7 days you can pick up an IDP in Australia from your local Service NSW’s locations. Please note you are unable to pick up an IDP from every Service NSW Service Centre, so check applicable locations and make an appointment before attending. Also remember to have your physical licence with you, as digital versions are not accepted. If you are looking for an IDP in Melbourne or IDP Brisbane then you can visit the local RACV or RACQ branch.
Will I also need to carry my physical Australian driver licence?
An IDP is not a stand-alone document or a substitute for a valid driver licence. You must carry your physical Australian state/territory licence with your IDP at all times. (Note: Digital Australian drivers licences are not valid outside the state of issue and not recognised overseas with any law enforcement, so you must have a valid plastic photo card licence).
Can I apply for an IDP if I hold a learner's driver licence?
Unfortunately not. The IDP can only be issued to Provisional or full driver licence holders, aged 18 years and older.
Can I renew my IDP overseas?
Yes, through our online application process. Please allow up to 10 business days for us to process and send it to your specified address and then adequate time for the overseas postal service. If you've lived overseas for more than 12 months you may need to apply for a local licence. Speak to your local authorities who can advise you.
Can I check the progress of my IDP or ask a question?
If you need to enquire about the progress of your International Driving Permit NSW application or have a question, please contact us on 1300 053 052 or email to [email protected].
Can I still send my application by post?
As of July 1, 2024, we have transitioned away from accepting postal applications. Our commitment to safeguarding your privacy led us to eliminate manual application forms. Instead, we now exclusively process applications online or in-store, where they are completed digitally. This change ensures greater data privacy and security for all applicants.

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Now for the fine print

The AAA has released the updated terms and conditions and privacy policy including a definition of Australian Drivers Licence Photocard and ensuring all reference to an Australian Drivers Licence includes the word Photocard. View the terms and conditions and privacy policy.

View the full terms and conditions

Travel insurance terms and conditions

To get the 10% member discount, the new NRMA Travel Insurance Policy must be started, completed and paid in full online. The discount will be applied to the total cost of the insurance policy purchased. This offer is only available for purchases online until sold out, and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Minimum premiums may apply. Terms and conditions apply, please visit mynrma.com.au/travelinsurance for full details.

Limits, sub-limits, conditions and exclusions apply. Cover will not exceed 12 months from onset of the illness, condition, or injury.

National Roads and Motorists’ Association Limited ABN 77 000 010 506 (NRMA) acts as a referrer under an agreement with Insurance Australia Limited (ABN 11 000 016 722, AFSL 227681) trading as NRMA Insurance (IAL). NRMA is a separate and independent company from IAL. NRMA may refer customers to IAL and if you take out an NRMA Travel Insurance policy, IAL will pay NRMA a commission on the premium of between 16.5% and 33% per policy purchased. NRMA Travel Insurance is issued by Zurich Australian Insurance Limited (ABN 13 000 296 640, AFSL 232507) and is arranged and administered by Cover-More Insurance Services Pty Ltd. (ABN 95 003 114 145, AFSL 241713).

Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making any decision about whether to acquire this product, please consider your own needs and read the Combined FSG/PDS and TMD.

^This discount is available for existing NRMA Insurance customers and existing NRMA members. Discount applied to total premium price (including government charges, taxes, levies and fees). NRMA Insurance or NRMA (as applicable) may withdraw this offer for their respective customers/members at any time.

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