Can I drive in the United States with an Australian licence? Do I need an international driving permit?
It depends on the state where you drive and on how long you stay. Smartraveller says: “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).” (Smartraveller advice for the United States, 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 the United States: “Local travel” › “Driver's licences and International Driving permits”
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). Some rental car companies also require you to have an IDP.
You should get an IDP before you leave Australia.
Digital driving licences are not yet widely accepted by rental car companies so travellers should carry a physical driving licence.
Driving without an IDP where one is required can void your travel and vehicle insurance.
Source: Smartraveller: United States of America, page updated 26 September 2026, “still current at” 17 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 the United States
Hiring a car in the United States? 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.
Compare car hire in the United States
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Other licences in the United States
| Licence | In United States | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| UK licence | It depends | 28 October 2026 |
| Canadian licence | No IDP needed | 28 October 2026 |
Before you travel to the United States
- British passport: USA entry requirements
- Canadian passport: USA
- Australian passport: USA
- Italian citizens: Stati Uniti
Questions
Do I need an international driving permit for the United States with an Australian driver's licence?
It depends on the state where you drive and on how long you stay. Smartraveller says: “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).” (Smartraveller advice for the United States, checked on 17 October 2026).
Can I drive in the United States with my Australian licence?
Smartraveller says: “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).”
Which international driving permit do I need for the United States?
The Smartraveller advice for the United States 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.