Can I drive in Lebanon with an Australian licence? Do I need an international driving permit?
Recommended. Smartraveller says: “If you plan to drive in Lebanon, you should hold an International Drivers Permit.” (Smartraveller advice for Lebanon, 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 Lebanon: “Local travel”
If you plan to drive in Lebanon, you should hold an International Drivers Permit.
Source: Smartraveller: Lebanon, page updated 24 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 Lebanon
Hiring a car in Lebanon? 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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Other licences in Lebanon
| Licence | In Lebanon | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| UK licence | No IDP needed | 28 October 2026 |
| Canadian licence | IDP needed | 28 October 2026 |
Before you travel to Lebanon
- British passport: Lebanon entry requirements
- Canadian passport: Lebanon
- Australian passport: Lebanon
- Italian citizens: Libano
Questions
Do I need an international driving permit for Lebanon with an Australian driver's licence?
Recommended. Smartraveller says: “If you plan to drive in Lebanon, you should hold an International Drivers Permit.” (Smartraveller advice for Lebanon, checked on 17 October 2026).
Can I drive in Lebanon with my Australian licence?
Smartraveller says: “If you plan to drive in Lebanon, you should hold an International Drivers Permit.”
Which international driving permit do I need for Lebanon?
The Smartraveller advice for Lebanon 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.