If you’re going overseas and plan to drive, there’s a good chance you will need an international driving permit. Here's what you need to know.
To apply, you'll need:
- A current Australian driver's licence (no learner's permits)
- A valid passport-sized photo
Make sure to check the driving requirements of your destination country before you travel. Having an IDP on hand can make navigating foreign roads—and authorities—much smoother.
How to purchase
Online
Apply online and have your IDP posted to you within 5-7 business days* or choose ‘pick up in store’ and collect from a Travel and Cruise branch after 2 business days.
In person
Visit your local Member Service Centre or Travel and Cruise Branch to have your IDP issued on the spot. This is the fastest and most secure way to ensure you receive your IDP before departure.
Please ensure you bring a valid driver’s license with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
An international driving permit (also known as an international driving licence or IDP) allows you to drive overseas without further tests or applications. You will need an IDP to drive both cars and motorbikes.
Anyone over the age of 18 with a full valid Australian driver's licence can apply. (No learner’s permits.)
Please note, RAC doesn't provide international driving permits to foreign visitors to Australia. If you’re a foreign visitor, please contact the Department of Transport.
To apply for an international driving permit, you will need a valid Australian driver's licence and a passport sized photo. Photos must not be older than 12 months and cannot be reused from previous IDP's.
When applying online, you can upload a suitable passport photo sized image from a file on your mobile device or desktop. We will print this for you free of charge, when processing the IDP application.
You can purchase passport-sized photos for $6 at our Travel Centres.
Only RAC and associated members of the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) are authorised to issue international driving permits in Australia.
You can apply for an IDP:
- Online or
- In person at one of our RAC Member Service Centres or at one of our RAC Travel Centres
An international driving permit costs $53.00 when purchasing the IDP in person at one of our RAC Travel branches.
If you do not include or have a passport sized photo with your application you can purchase these from the branch at the time of application for additional cost (see What will I need?)
When applying online or via postal application, registered and express postage and handling fees apply (see Where can I get an International Driver's Licence?)
When applying online, you can upload a suitable photo when completing the application. We will print this for you and apply it to your IDP at no additional cost.
Your permit is valid for 12 months or until the expiry date of your Australian driver's licence, whichever comes first.
Make sure you’re aware of the international driving permit requirements of the places you’re visiting.
See the International Driver Permit Directory to find out.
A carnet (pronounced car-nay) is essential for the temporary importation of vehicles into New Zealand and most African, Asian, Middle Eastern and South American countries. It allows visitors to import their vehicles for a limited period of time with a minimum of formalities and without the need to make a cash deposit at the frontier in local currency, equivalent to the customs duty and other taxes.
Carnets are valid for 12 months from the date of issue and are a great way to save time, effort and expense.
For further advice or any queries on Carnets, email the Australian Automobile Association.
