Driving Guide
Do you need an international driving permit (IDP) for Turkey? For most Western tourists — no. But there are important exceptions. This guide explains exactly who needs an IDP, how to get one before your trip, which version Turkey accepts, and what happens without one.
Who needs an IDP: you need one if your licence uses a non-Latin alphabet — Russian (Cyrillic), Ukrainian, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean. If your licence is in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, or any Latin-alphabet language with photo, you do NOT need an IDP. However, an IDP is always recommended as a cheap backup — eliminates any language barrier with police or rental agents.
How to get an IDP: apply through your national automobile association before travelling. UK: AA or RAC — £5.50, ~1 week by post. USA: AAA — $20, same day in person. Australia: NRMA — ~AUD 40. Canada: CAA — ~CAD 25. Need: valid licence, passport photo, fee. Valid 1 year from issue.
Important: Turkey accepts the 1968 Vienna Convention IDP, NOT the 1949 Geneva version. UK drivers: make sure you get the right one. IDP is a translation only — must carry BOTH original licence AND IDP. IDP alone is not a licence to drive. RENAX will ask to see your original licence alongside any IDP.
No — UK photocard is valid without IDP. But getting one is cheap (£5.50 from AA/RAC) and provides peace of mind. Get the 1968 Vienna Convention version.
Yes — if your licence is in English/Latin alphabet. RENAX doesn't require IDP for Latin-alphabet licences. Non-Latin licences need IDP or certified translation.
Apply at your national auto association: AA/RAC (UK, ~1 week), AAA (USA, same day), CAA (Canada), NRMA (Australia). Cost: £5–40. Need licence + photo + fee. Valid 1 year.
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