Can I drive in Vanuatu with an Australian licence? Do I need an international driving permit?
It depends on how long you stay. Smartraveller says: “You can drive in Vanuatu on an Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted) for up to 3 months.” (Smartraveller advice for Vanuatu, 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 Vanuatu: “Local travel” › “Driving permit”
You can drive in Vanuatu on an Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted) for up to 3 months.
After that, you'll need to apply for a local licence.
Source: Smartraveller: Vanuatu, page updated 22 July 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 Vanuatu
Hiring a car in Vanuatu? 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 Vanuatu
| Licence | In Vanuatu | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| UK licence | No IDP needed | 28 October 2026 |
| Canadian licence | Recommended | 28 October 2026 |
Before you travel to Vanuatu
- British passport: Vanuatu entry requirements
- Canadian passport: Vanuatu
- Australian passport: Vanuatu
- Italian citizens: Vanuatu
Questions
Do I need an international driving permit for Vanuatu with an Australian driver's licence?
It depends on how long you stay. Smartraveller says: “You can drive in Vanuatu on an Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted) for up to 3 months.” (Smartraveller advice for Vanuatu, checked on 17 October 2026).
Can I drive in Vanuatu with my Australian licence?
Smartraveller says: “You can drive in Vanuatu on an Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted) for up to 3 months.”
Which international driving permit do I need for Vanuatu?
The Smartraveller advice for Vanuatu 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.
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