Do I need an international driving permit with an Australian licence? Every country (2026)
With an Australian driver's licence, the official advice of Smartraveller (Australian Government) says you need an international driving permit in 93 countries and territories, you do not need one in 7, it depends in 44 (usually on how long you stay or on hiring a car), it is recommended in 4, and a local licence or permit is needed in 6; it says nothing about permits for 25 (last checked 17 October 2026).
- 93IDP needed
- 7no IDP needed
- 44it depends
- 10recommended or local permit
Rules change, and car hire companies can ask for more than the law. We quote the official travel advice word for word, with its date; this is information, not legal advice. If you are unsure, ask the embassy of the country you are visiting, your car hire company or your travel insurer before you travel.
Most searched with an Australian licence
BangladeshIDP neededBrazilIt dependsCanadaIt dependsChileNo IDP neededChinaLocal permit neededCook IslandsIt dependsDenmarkIDP neededFijiIt dependsFranceIt dependsGermanyIDP neededGreeceIt dependsHong KongIt dependsIcelandIt dependsIndiaIDP neededIndonesiaIDP neededIrelandIt dependsItalyIt dependsJapanIDP neededLebanonRecommendedMalaysiaIDP neededMauritiusNo IDP neededNepalIDP neededNetherlandsIDP neededNew ZealandIt dependsNorwayIt dependsPakistanIDP neededPhilippinesIt dependsPolandIDP neededPortugalNo IDP neededQatarIDP neededSamoaLocal permit neededSaudi ArabiaIDP neededSingaporeIDP neededSouth KoreaIDP neededSpainIDP neededSri LankaIDP neededSwitzerlandIt dependsTaiwanIDP neededThailandIDP neededTurkeyIt dependsUnited Arab EmiratesIDP neededUnited KingdomNo IDP neededUnited StatesIt dependsVanuatuIt dependsVietnamLocal permit needed
Every country and territory
Each answer quotes the official sentence that decides it. “It depends” means the official text sets a condition (length of stay, hiring a car, a translation, the region); “Not stated” means the official advice for that country says nothing about permits. “Type” is shown only where the Smartraveller page names the convention (1926, 1949 or 1968). Click a country for the full official text.
| Country or territory | IDP? | Type | Official wording | Checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Afghanistan Islamic Republic of Afghanistan | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Albania Republic of Albania | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Albania, you need both: an International Driving Permit (IDP); a current Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Algeria People's Democratic Republic of Algeria | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Algeria, you must have both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Angola Republic of Angola | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Angola, you need: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP); registration papers; insurance papers” | 17 October 2026 |
| Argentina Argentine Republic | Not stated | – | “You should check with the rental car company whether you also need to have an international driver permit.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Armenia Republic of Armenia | IDP needed | – | “To drive, you need both: a valid International Driving Permit (IDP); a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Austria Republic of Austria | It depends | – | “You can drive for up to 6 months with your valid Australian driver’s licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted).” “You must also have either: an International Driving Permit (IDP), or; a German translation of your licence” | 17 October 2026 |
| Azerbaijan Republic of Azerbaijan | It depends | – | “You can drive in Azerbaijan with a current Australian driver's licence.” “You may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for travel and car insurance.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Bahamas Commonwealth of the Bahamas · The Bahamas | IDP needed | – | “To drive in The Bahamas, you'll need both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Bahrain Kingdom of Bahrain | It depends | – | “If you have a non-Bahraini driving licence, you may only be allowed to use that licence and/or International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to three months from your arrival in the country.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Bangladesh People's Republic of Bangladesh | IDP needed | – | “You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Bangladesh.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Belarus Republic of Belarus | IDP needed | – | “You'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Belarus.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Belgium Kingdom of Belgium | IDP needed | – | “To drive a vehicle, you'll need both: an International Driving Permit (IDP); a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Belize | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Belize, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Benin Republic of Benin | IDP needed | – | “You can drive in Benin with: … an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Bhutan Kingdom of Bhutan | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Bolivia Bolivia, Plurinational State of · Plurinational State of Bolivia | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Bolivia, you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina Bosnia · Bosnia & Herzegovina · Bosnia-Herzegovina · Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina | IDP needed | – | “You can drive on your Australian driver's licence for up to 6 months. You'll need both: … a valid international driving permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Botswana Republic of Botswana | IDP needed | – | “To drive, you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted) and; an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Brazil Federative Republic of Brazil | It depends | – | “You can drive in Brazil for up to 180 days after your arrival, as long as you carry a valid Australian driver’s licence.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Brunei Brunei Darussalam | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Brunei for up to 1 year, you need both: … a valid international driving permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Bulgaria Republic of Bulgaria | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Bulgaria, you'll need: an International Driving Permit (IDP) and,; your current Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Burkina Faso | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Burkina Faso, you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Burundi Republic of Burundi | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Cambodia Kingdom of Cambodia | IDP needed | – | “If you want to drive a car or motorcycle larger than 125cc, you’ll need an Australian licence and an International Driving Permit, or a Cambodian licence.” “Short-term travellers who want to drive a car or ride a motorcycle larger than 125cc must have a valid Australian licence (digital licences may not be accepted) and an International Driving Permit.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Cameroon Republic of Cameroon | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Canada | It depends | – | “To drive in Canada, you may need: an International Driving Permit (IDP) and; a valid Australian licence” “Requirements may vary in different provinces and states.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Central African Republic | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Chad Republic of Chad | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Chile Republic of Chile | No IDP needed | – | “To drive in Chile as a tourist, you need either: a valid Australian driver's licence (which can function as a Chilean' class B license', for non-commercial, small vehicle driving during the length of your tourist visa), or; an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| China China mainland · Mainland China · People's Republic of China | Local permit needed | – | “Foreign driver's licences and International Driving Permits (IDP) aren't valid in mainland China.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Colombia Republic of Colombia | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Colombia, you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence; an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Cook Islands | It depends | – | “You can use a valid Australian driver's licence for up to 6 months (digital driver's licences may not be accepted).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Costa Rica Republic of Costa Rica | It depends | – | “You can drive for up to 3 months with your Australian driver's licence.” “If your Australian licence allows, you can drive a car and motorcycle.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Côte d'Ivoire Cote d'Ivoire · Ivory Coast · Republic of Côte d'Ivoire | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Côte d’Ivoire, you need: an International Driving Permit (IDP); registration papers; Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Brown Card insurance” | 17 October 2026 |
| Croatia Republic of Croatia | IDP needed | – | “To drive a vehicle, you'll need both: a current Australian driver's licence, and; a valid international driving permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Cuba Republic of Cuba | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Cuba, you'll need both: your valid Australian driver's licence; a valid International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Cyprus Republic of Cyprus | It depends | – | “You can only use your Australian driver's licence for 6 months from your date of arrival.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Czechia Czech Republic | IDP needed | – | “To drive, you'll need either: a local or EU driver's licence; an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Democratic Republic of the Congo Congo - Kinshasa · Congo, Democratic Republic of the · Congo, The Democratic Republic of the · DR Congo · DRC · Democratic Republic of Congo | IDP needed | – | “To drive in the DRC, you'll need both: a valid international driving permit (IDP); your current Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Denmark Kingdom of Denmark | IDP needed | – | “To drive, you'll need both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Djibouti Republic of Djibouti | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Djibouti, you need both: a valid Australian driver’s licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); a valid International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Dominican Republic | IDP needed | – | “For trips of less than 3 months, you can drive with: … an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Ecuador Republic of Ecuador | IDP needed | – | “For the first six months after you arrive in Ecuador you can drive with both: … an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Egypt Arab Republic of Egypt | IDP needed | – | “You can't drive in Egypt on your Australian driver's licence.” “Before arriving, get an international driver's permit and get an embassy or consulate of Egypt to certify it.” | 17 October 2026 |
| El Salvador Republic of El Salvador | Not stated | – | “To drive a vehicle, you'll need a current Australian driver's licence” | 17 October 2026 |
| Eritrea the State of Eritrea | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Eritrea, you must get an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you arrive.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Estonia Republic of Estonia | It depends | – | “You must have a valid Australian driver's licence to drive in Estonia” “You may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to hire a vehicle.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Eswatini Kingdom of Eswatini · Swaziland | IDP needed | – | “To drive, you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted) and; an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Ethiopia Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia | Local permit needed | – | “International driving permits aren't recognised in Ethiopia.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Fiji Republic of Fiji | It depends | – | “You can hire vehicles and drive using your Australian driver's licence for the first 6 months after your arrival.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Finland Republic of Finland | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| France French Republic | It depends | – | “You'll need a valid Australian driver's licence to drive.” “Car rental companies may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your driver's license (the IDP alone is insufficient).” | 17 October 2026 |
| French Polynesia | It depends | – | “You can drive in French Polynesia on a valid Australian driver's licence for up to one year after arrival.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Gabon Gabonese Republic | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Gabon, you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Gambia Republic of the Gambia · The Gambia | IDP needed | – | “To drive you'll need both: a valid Australian driver's licence; an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Georgia | It depends | – | “You need an Australian driver's licence to drive in Georgia” “Some care hire providers and car insurers may require an International Driving Permit (IDP) for insurance.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Germany Federal Republic of Germany | IDP needed | – | “You can only use your Australian driver's licence in some cases. Check with the Embassy of Germany.” “If you plan to drive, get an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you travel.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Ghana Republic of Ghana | IDP needed | – | “You can drive in Ghana for 12 months with: … an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Greece Hellenic Republic | It depends | – | “If you plan on driving, you may not need an International Driving Permit. Contact the Greek Embassy or Consulate for more information on your licence type.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Guam | It depends | – | “You can drive a motor vehicle for a period not exceeding 30 days from the date of arrival into Guam with a valid Australian driver's licence” | 17 October 2026 |
| Guatemala Republic of Guatemala | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Guatemala, you need both: an International Driving Permit (IDP); an Australian driver's licence” | 17 October 2026 |
| Guinea Republic of Guinea | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Guyana Republic of Guyana | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Haiti Republic of Haiti | IDP needed | – | “You can drive in Haiti with your: … International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Honduras Republic of Honduras | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Honduras, you need both: an International Driving Permit (IDP); an Australian driver's licence” | 17 October 2026 |
| Hong Kong Hong Kong SAR · Hong Kong SAR China · Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China | It depends | – | “You may be able to drive in Hong Kong for up to 12 months with your current Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted) or International Driving Permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Hungary | It depends | – | “You can drive on your Australian driver's licence for 1 year if you also have either: a Hungarian translation of your licence, or; an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Iceland Republic of Iceland | It depends | – | “Australian driving licences are valid in Iceland if you have had your licence for a minimum of 1 year. However, some car rental companies require customers to present an International Driving Permit (IDP) if holding a licence issued outside Europe or North America.” | 17 October 2026 |
| India Republic of India | IDP needed | – | “You can drive without an Indian driver's licence for 3 months if you have both: … an International Driving Permit” | 17 October 2026 |
| Indonesia Republic of Indonesia | IDP needed | – | “You need an Indonesian licence or an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your Australian driver's license.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Iran Iran, Islamic Republic of · Islamic Republic of Iran | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Iraq Republic of Iraq | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Ireland | It depends | – | “You can use your Australian driver's licence for up to 12 months.” “When hiring a car, check with your hire car provider whether you need an International Driving Permit.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Israel State of Israel | It depends | – | “You can drive in Israel for up to one year with a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Italy Italian Republic | It depends | – | “If you're not a resident, you'll need both: an Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences will not be accepted); an International Drivers Permit (IDP) or an official translation of the Australian licence” | 17 October 2026 |
| Jamaica | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Jamaica, you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence; an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Japan | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Japan, you must hold either: a valid Japanese driver's licence, or; a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) and a current Australian driver's licence” | 17 October 2026 |
| Jordan Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan | IDP needed | – | “To drive you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Kazakhstan Republic of Kazakhstan | IDP needed | – | “To drive, you need both: a valid driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Kenya Republic of Kenya | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Kenya, you'll need both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Kosovo | Recommended | – | “Getting an International Driver's Permit (IDP) is recommended.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Kuwait State of Kuwait | It depends | – | “If you're a visitor, you can use a valid International Driving Permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Kyrgyzstan Kyrgyz Republic | IDP needed | – | “To drive in the Kyrgyz Republic, you need both: an Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Laos Lao PDR · Lao People's Democratic Republic | IDP needed | – | “To drive, you'll need a valid International Driving Permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Latvia Republic of Latvia | IDP needed | – | “If you plan to drive in Latvia, you're required to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Lebanon Lebanese Republic | Recommended | – | “If you plan to drive in Lebanon, you should hold an International Drivers Permit.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Lesotho Kingdom of Lesotho | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Lesotho, you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Liberia Republic of Liberia | IDP needed | – | “You will also need to carry a police cover note in addition to your IDP.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Libya | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Lithuania Republic of Lithuania | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Lithuania, you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence; an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Macao Macao Special Administrative Region of China · Macau | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Macau, you need both: … a valid international driving permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Madagascar Republic of Madagascar | It depends | – | “You can drive in Madagascar with a valid Australian driver's licence” “For longer stays you’ll need to apply for an International Driver’s Permit from Australia.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Malawi Republic of Malawi | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Malawi, you need both: … an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Malaysia | IDP needed | – | “To drive you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Maldives Republic of Maldives | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Maldives, you'll need both: … a valid International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Mali Republic of Mali | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Mali, you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Malta Republic of Malta | It depends | – | “You can use your Australian driver's licence to drive for one year from arrival (digital driver's licences may not be accepted).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Marshall Islands Republic of the Marshall Islands | It depends | – | “You can drive for up to 30 days with either: an Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted), or; an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Mauritania Islamic Republic of Mauritania | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Mauritius Republic of Mauritius | No IDP needed | – | “To drive in Mauritius, you need to be at least 18 years old and have either: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); or; an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Mexico United Mexican States | Not stated | – | “To drive a vehicle, you'll need a current Australian driver's licence.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Micronesia Federated States of Micronesia · Micronesia, Federated States of | It depends | – | “You can use your Australian driver's licence for 1 month after you arrive.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Moldova Moldova, Republic of · Republic of Moldova | IDP needed | – | “You'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Moldova.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Mongolia | IDP needed | 1968 | “Mongolia only accepts IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Montenegro | IDP needed | – | “To drive, you'll need both: a valid Australian driver's license (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Morocco Kingdom of Morocco | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Morocco, you must have both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Mozambique Republic of Mozambique | IDP needed | – | “To drive, you must have both: a valid Australian driver licence; an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Myanmar Burma · Republic of Myanmar | Local permit needed | – | “It's illegal to drive cars or motorbikes using an Australian or international driving licence.” “You must have a valid Myanmar driver's licence.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Namibia Republic of Namibia | No IDP needed | – | “Though not mandatory you may be requested to show a valid International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Nepal Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal | IDP needed | – | “To drive, you need both: … an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Netherlands Holland · Kingdom of the Netherlands | IDP needed | – | “For short visits, you'll need both: … an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| New Caledonia | It depends | – | “You can drive in New Caledonia on a valid Australian driver's licence for up to one year after arrival.” | 17 October 2026 |
| New Zealand | It depends | – | “You can drive for up to 12 months with your Australian driver's licence.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Nicaragua Republic of Nicaragua | No IDP needed | – | “To drive in Nicaragua, you'll need either:” | 17 October 2026 |
| Niger Republic of the Niger | IDP needed | – | “You can drive in Niger with a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted) and an International Driving Permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Nigeria Federal Republic of Nigeria | It depends | – | “International Driving Permits are recognised in Nigeria for up to 3 months, provided they are accompanied by a valid driver's licence.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Niue | Local permit needed | – | “You’ll need a local driver’s licence to drive in Niue.” | 17 October 2026 |
| North Korea Democratic People's Republic of Korea · Korea, Democratic People's Republic of · Korea, North | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| North Macedonia Macedonia · Republic of North Macedonia | IDP needed | – | “To drive, you'll need both: a valid Australian driver's licence, and; an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Norway Kingdom of Norway | It depends | – | “Australian driving licences are valid for up to 3 months.” “However, some car rental companies may require customers to present an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Oman Sultanate of Oman | Recommended | – | “If you're in Oman on a visit visa, you should hold an International Driving Permit (IDP).” “Your IDP should be endorsed by the Oman road authorities.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Pakistan Islamic Republic of Pakistan | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Pakistan, you need both: an Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Palau Republic of Palau | It depends | – | “To drive in Palau for up to 30 days, you may need: an International Driving Permit (IDP); a valid Australian driver's licence” | 17 October 2026 |
| Palestine Palestine, State of · Palestinian Territories · the State of Palestine | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Panama Republic of Panama | Not stated | – | “To drive in Panama, you need: … an Australian driver's licence” | 17 October 2026 |
| Papua New Guinea Independent State of Papua New Guinea | It depends | – | “You can drive in PNG for up to 6 months using a valid Australian driver's licence.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Paraguay Republic of Paraguay | IDP needed | – | “If you plan to drive in Paraguay: you will need an international driving permit; check you have adequate travel insurance; learn local traffic laws and practices; avoid driving at night in rural areas” | 17 October 2026 |
| Peru Republic of Peru | It depends | – | “You can use your Australian driver's license to drive in Peru for the duration of a tourist visa (maximum 183 days in one year). If you're staying in Peru longer, you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Philippines Republic of the Philippines · The Philippines | It depends | – | “You can use a current Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted) for up to 90 days after you arrive.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Poland Republic of Poland | IDP needed | – | “You must carry both your Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted) and an International Driving Permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Portugal Portuguese Republic | No IDP needed | – | “You can drive using a valid Australian driver's licence.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Qatar State of Qatar | IDP needed | – | “You can drive in Qatar with: … an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Romania | It depends | – | “If you hold a valid Australian driver's licence, you can drive for up to 6 months from your arrival in Romania.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Russia Russian Federation | It depends | – | “You should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP).” “You may drive with an Australian driver's license if you carry it with a notarised Russian translation.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Rwanda Rwandese Republic | IDP needed | – | “You'll require both your Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted) and an International Driver's Permit to drive.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Samoa Independent State of Samoa | Local permit needed | – | “You need a temporary Samoan driver's licence to drive.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Saudi Arabia Kingdom of Saudi Arabia | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Saudi Arabia, you'll need: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Senegal Republic of Senegal | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Senegal, you need both: an International Driving Permit (IDP); an Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Serbia Republic of Serbia | IDP needed | – | “To drive, you'll need both: a current Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted); a valid international driving permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Seychelles Republic of Seychelles | No IDP needed | – | “You can drive using either a valid Australian driver's licence or an International Driving Permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Sierra Leone Republic of Sierra Leone | IDP needed | – | “You can drive for one month with” “an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Singapore Republic of Singapore | IDP needed | – | “To drive, you must be at least 18 years old and have an Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted) and an International Driving Permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Slovakia Slovak Republic | It depends | – | “You can drive on your Australian driver’s licence for up to 6 months.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Slovenia Republic of Slovenia | It depends | – | “You can drive on your Australian driver's licence for up to 12 months after arrival.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Solomon Islands | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Solomon Islands, you'll need both: a valid international driving permit (IDP); your current Australian driver's licence” | 17 October 2026 |
| Somalia Federal Republic of Somalia | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| South Africa Republic of South Africa | Not stated | – | “To drive in South Africa, you must: … have a valid Australian driver's licence, and” | 17 October 2026 |
| South Korea Korea · Korea, Republic of · Republic of Korea | IDP needed | – | “To drive, you'll need either: a valid local licence, or; an International Driver's Permit (IDP) and a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted)” | 17 October 2026 |
| South Sudan Republic of South Sudan | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Spain Kingdom of Spain | IDP needed | – | “To drive a vehicle, you'll need both: … a valid international driving permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Sri Lanka Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Sri Lanka, you need either: … a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) endorsed by the Automobile Association of Sri Lanka (AA)” “a temporary Sri Lankan driver’s licence from the Department of Motor Traffic” | 17 October 2026 |
| Sudan Republic of the Sudan | IDP needed | – | “You’ll need a valid international driving permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Sweden Kingdom of Sweden | It depends | – | “Australians can drive with a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted).” “However, car rental companies may require an International Driving Permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Switzerland Swiss Confederation | It depends | – | “Drivers must: be at least 18 years old; hold a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted)” “Some car hire agencies may need you to have an International Driving Permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Syria Syrian Arab Republic | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Taiwan Taiwan, Province of China | IDP needed | – | “If you plan to drive in Taiwan, you must get an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you arrive.” “You can drive for up to 30 days with an IDP and a current Australian licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Tajikistan Republic of Tajikistan | IDP needed | – | “To drive a vehicle in Tajikistan, you'll need: a current Australian driver's licence (a digital drivers licence's must be printed out and translated into Tajik or Russian); a valid International Driving Permit (IDP); to register the vehicle you are driving in your name” | 17 October 2026 |
| Tanzania Tanzania, United Republic of · United Republic of Tanzania | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Thailand Kingdom of Thailand | IDP needed | – | “To drive a car or motorcycle, you'll need a valid international driving permit (IDP) and your Australian driver's licence for the type of vehicle you're using.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Timor-Leste Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste · East Timor | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Timor-Leste, you need both: a valid International Driving Permit (IDP); your current Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Tonga Kingdom of Tonga | It depends | – | “You can drive on your Australian driver’s licence for up to 12 months after arriving in Tonga.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Trinidad and Tobago Republic of Trinidad and Tobago · Trinidad & Tobago | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Trinidad and Tobago, you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital drivers licences may not be accepted); a valid International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Tunisia Republic of Tunisia | IDP needed | – | “To drive you need an International Driving Permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Turkey Republic of Türkiye · Turkiye · Türkiye | It depends | – | “You can drive for up to 6 months if you have a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted).” “You must get a Turkish driver's licence, an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a notarised Turkish translation of your Australian licence if you plan to drive for longer than 6 months after your arrival.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Turkmenistan | IDP needed | – | “You will need both a valid Australian and International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive (digital driver's licences may not be accepted).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Uganda Republic of Uganda | IDP needed | – | “To drive in Uganda, you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Ukraine | IDP needed | – | “You'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive.” | 17 October 2026 |
| United Arab Emirates Abu Dhabi · Dubai · UAE | IDP needed | – | “If you're on a tourist visa and want to drive, you must get an International Driving Permit before leaving Australia.” | 17 October 2026 |
| United Kingdom Britain · England · Great Britain · Northern Ireland · Scotland · UK · United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland · Wales | No IDP needed | – | “You can drive a car or motorbike for up to 12 months using your full Australian licence. An International Driving Permit isn't required.” | 17 October 2026 |
| United States America · The United States · US · USA · United States of America | It depends | – | “While some US states will allow you to drive on your Australian driver's licence for a limited time, others require you to also have an International Driver's Permit (IDP).” | 17 October 2026 |
| Uruguay Eastern Republic of Uruguay | Recommended | – | “You can drive with an Australian driver's licence in Uruguay.” “You should carry a Spanish translation of your Australian licence if you're not carrying an international driving permit.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Uzbekistan Republic of Uzbekistan | IDP needed | – | “You can drive in Uzbekistan if you have both: … an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Vanuatu Republic of Vanuatu | It depends | – | “You can drive in Vanuatu on an Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted) for up to 3 months.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Venezuela Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela · Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of | Not stated | – | – | 17 October 2026 |
| Vietnam Socialist Republic of Viet Nam · Viet Nam | Local permit needed | – | “You're not allowed to drive or ride on an Australian licence or International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in Australia.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Yemen Republic of Yemen | IDP needed | – | “You’ll need a valid Australian driver's licence and an International Driving Permit to drive in Yemen.” | 17 October 2026 |
| Zambia Republic of Zambia | IDP needed | – | “To drive you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted); an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
| Zimbabwe Republic of Zimbabwe | IDP needed | – | “To drive you need both: a valid Australian driver's licence; an International Driving Permit (IDP)” | 17 October 2026 |
Where to get an international driving permit
Smartraveller says (in its advice for Vietnam):
Fraudulent websites may claim to issue valid IDPs.
The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) and its member clubs are the only authorised distributors of IDPs for Australian licence holders.
Source: Smartraveller: Vietnam, checked on 17 October 2026.
Hire a car
Hiring a car abroad? Compare rental companies and prices on DiscoverCars. Check the licence and IDP rules for your country in the table above before you book: the rental desk can refuse your booking without the right permit.
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How we read the official advice
For Australian licences we read the driving paragraphs (“Driving permit” and similar) of the “Local travel” part of the Smartraveller advice for each destination. Smartraveller blocks simple automated requests, so its pages are read in a browser. More on the About page. Spotted a change? Tell us.