Can I drive in Greece with an Australian licence? Do I need an international driving permit?
It depends on your type of licence (Smartraveller says to ask the Greek embassy or consulate). Smartraveller says: “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.” (Smartraveller advice for Greece, checked on 17 October 2026).
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.
What the official source says
Smartraveller advice for Greece: “Local travel” › “Driving permit”
A valid Australian driver licence is officially recognised in Greece, though digital licences may not be accepted. 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.
Your licence must be valid for the type of vehicle you'll drive, including quad bikes, motorbikes, mopeds, motor scooters and other similar vehicles. Check your insurance covers vehicle hire.
You could face a large fine if you don't have the correct licence. Your insurance won't cover you if you have an accident.
Source: Smartraveller: Greece, page updated 30 September 2026, “still current at” 18 October 2026 (Australian time), checked on 17 October 2026. Quoted word for word; we show only the sentences about driving licences and permits.
What to bring and where to get an IDP
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 in Greece
Hiring a car in Greece? Compare rental companies and prices on DiscoverCars. Check the licence and IDP rules above before you book: the rental desk can refuse your booking without the right permit.
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Hiring a car in Greece? How to pay tolls in Greece with a rental car
Using public transport instead? The fine without a valid ticket, validation and contactless payment: Athens
Renting a scooter or a moped instead? Greece: what a car licence covers (moped, 125 cc)
Other licences in Greece
| Licence | In Greece | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| UK licence | No IDP needed | 28 October 2026 |
| Canadian licence | No IDP needed | 28 October 2026 |
Before you travel to Greece
- British passport: Greece entry requirements
- Canadian passport: Greece
- Australian passport: Greece
- Italian citizens: Grecia
Questions
Do I need an international driving permit for Greece with an Australian driver's licence?
It depends on your type of licence (Smartraveller says to ask the Greek embassy or consulate). Smartraveller says: “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.” (Smartraveller advice for Greece, checked on 17 October 2026).
Can I drive in Greece with my Australian licence?
Smartraveller says: “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.”
Which international driving permit do I need for Greece?
The Smartraveller advice for Greece does not say which convention (1926, 1949 or 1968) the permit must follow.
Where do I get an international driving permit in Australia?
Smartraveller says: “The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) and its member clubs are the only authorised distributors of IDPs for Australian licence holders.”
Where does this answer come from?
From the official travel advice of Smartraveller, read on 17 October 2026 and quoted word for word on this page. It is information, not legal advice.
Spotted a change? Tell us. Every country for an Australian licence · Driving abroad: all licences.