International Driver's Permits

An International Drivers Permit (IDP) is a translation of the category/s of vehicles on your Australian drivers licence into an internationally recognised symbol system. This is a widely recognised document accepted in most countries globally, when carried with your Australian drivers licence.

An IDP allows you to drive overseas without further tests or applications, provided your Australian drivers licence is still current. Many car hire companies’ state in their terms and conditions of the hire agreement, that you are required to hold an IDP.

In some countries it is a requirement of the country that you hold the permit. This requirement is for the country only. This is separate to any requirements or needs by a car hire or insurance company (even if the country does not require it, car hire or travel insurance companies may still).

Whilst the Australian Automobile Association (specifically RAC in WA) makes every effort to have the most up to date information regarding an IDP, it is ultimately the responsibility of the traveller to contact local motoring authorities of the country of destination to find out the requirements of documents they are required to hold, prior to travelling.

What if I don't have an IDP? Whilst you may not be asked to present your IDP when travelling, it may still be a requirement to hold one. Failure to do so may result in the inability to pick up a rental vehicle. It may also trigger exclusions under your travel insurance policy, if claiming for loss or damage caused while driving a motor vehicle overseas.

Anyone over the age of 18 with a valid Australian drivers licence can apply. 

Please be aware that any restrictions for ‘P’ platers will still apply overseas.

No. An IDP cannot be renewed and a new application is required for each permit. 

If you require the permit whilst overseas you will need to apply by post. The application form can be downloaded from the RAC website. 

Be sure to include your loose passport photograph, photocopies of your Australian drivers licence and correct payment information on the form, to eliminate delays. Also, a reliable postal address further guarantees delivery.

No, the IDP cannot be dated according to when you will be using it or travelling. Your IDP will be stamped according to the date of processing. Under no circumstances can the permits be pre or post-dated. 

The IDP is valid for 12 months or until your Australian drivers licence expires, whichever comes first.

Within Australia, only the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) are authorised to issue International Driving Permits. 

In WA, the RAC is the only authorised organisation permitted to issue IDPs. Any other online IDP card application processes are counterfeit and should not be used.

Unfortunately, replacement permits cannot be reissued if damaged or lost. 

The RAC does not keep copies of IDP’s as the physical permit needs to be carried to validate it. If you have lost your permit you will need to reapply. 

An IDP can be issued as long as your Australian drivers licence is currently valid. 

You must ensure you renew your Australian drivers licence prior to travelling as your IDP is only valid when carried with a current Australian drivers licence. 

Your IDP will expire one year from the issue date or when your Australian rivers licence expires - whichever is first.