Can I drive in Portugal with an Australian licence? Do I need an international driving permit?
No. Smartraveller says: “You can drive using a valid Australian driver's licence.” (Smartraveller advice for Portugal, 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 Portugal: “Local travel” › “Driving permit”
You can drive using a valid Australian driver's licence.
Local authorities and car rental companies require the presentation of an original driver licence. Australian digital driver licences are not accepted.
If you hold a residence permit for Portugal, you can continue to use your valid Australian driver's license as long as you meet certain conditions.
Source: Smartraveller: Portugal, page updated 16 October 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 Portugal
Hiring a car in Portugal? 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.
Some links are affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Hiring a car in Portugal? How to pay tolls in Portugal with a rental car
Using public transport instead? The fine without a valid ticket, validation and contactless payment: Lisbon
Other licences in Portugal
| Licence | In Portugal | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| UK licence | It depends | 28 October 2026 |
| Canadian licence | It depends | 28 October 2026 |
Before you travel to Portugal
- British passport: Portugal entry requirements
- Canadian passport: Portugal
- Australian passport: Portugal
- Italian citizens: Portogallo
Questions
Do I need an international driving permit for Portugal with an Australian driver's licence?
No. Smartraveller says: “You can drive using a valid Australian driver's licence.” (Smartraveller advice for Portugal, checked on 17 October 2026).
Can I drive in Portugal with my Australian licence?
Smartraveller says: “You can drive using a valid Australian driver's licence.”
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.