Before you go, maximize your trip in the Pearl of the Orient Seas by securing an International Driving Permit (IDP). Drive in the Philippines without any worries and explore the country's beauty at your own pace. Get your international driving permit today!

Tourists with their home country's license written in English are not required to have an IDP when driving in the Philippines. However, it is highly recommended that they secure one just in case of any incidents or accidents while on the road.

If you come from a non-ASEAN country and your driver's license is not written in English, you must have an IDP to drive legally in the Philippines. An IDP serves as proof that your driver's license is valid and allows authorities to easily understand the information on it.

To get an international driving permit:

1. Check if your home country is part of the International Driving Permit Convention.

2. If your country is a member, visit your local automobile association or motor vehicle agency to apply for an IDP.

3. Bring a valid driver's license and two passport-sized photos with you.

4. Pay the necessary fees and provide any required documents.

5. Wait for your IDP to be processed and issued to you.

For a more convenient option, you can also apply for an IDP online through the International Driver's Association. We offer digital and physical versions of the IDP, making it easier for you to obtain one before your trip to the Philippines.

The major advantage of having an IDP in the Philippines is that it allows you to rent a car hassle-free. Most car rental companies in the country require tourists to present an IDP and their local driver's license, so having one will save you from potential complications or rejections.

You can easily explore some of the best places in the Philippines by driving yourself rather than relying on public transportation. With an IDP, you can confidently navigate different cities and provinces, making your trip more convenient and enjoyable.

To obtain insurance in the Philippines, most companies require a valid driver's license from your home country and an IDP. Having both will ensure that you are legally allowed to drive in the country and provide better coverage in case of any accidents or damages.

Lastly, having an IDP in the Philippines will give you peace of mind and confidence while driving on unfamiliar roads. With proper documentation, you can fully focus on enjoying your trip without any worries about legalities or language barriers.

Now that you know about some of the requirements before traveling to the Philippines, let's now talk about some tips for renting a car in the country:

• Make sure to read and understand the rental agreement before signing.
• Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and road signs.
• Always follow speed limits and avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Always keep important documents, such as your IDP and passport, with you when driving.
• Be aware of potential scams or overcharging by taxi drivers. Having your rental car can help you avoid these situations.
• Download local navigation or traffic apps such as Waze or Google Maps to make your driving experience easier.

If you lose your IDP during your trip, report it to local authorities and contact your home country's embassy for assistance. You can easily access your digital IDP through your account if you purchase your IDP online from the International Driver's Association.

Yes, you can use your IDP in over 150 countries of the International Driving Permit Convention. However, always research and check the specific requirements for driving in each country before your trip.

As long as your driver's license is valid and your home country's automobile association or motor vehicle agency has issued your IDP, you can still use it even if your passport expires. However, a passport expiring during travel is less likely, as tourists must have at least 3-6 months left in their passports before they’re allowed to fly.

For Philippine citizens, you can read our guide to renewing or applying for a passport.

There are countless beautiful destinations in the Philippines, but some must-visit places include Boracay Island, Palawan, Cebu, Siargao, and Batanes. Make sure to have a local SIM card or data plan for easy access to navigation and communication while traveling.

Explore driving in the Philippines. Learn about requirements, road rules, safety tips, and the best places to visit.