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You don’t want surprises at a police checkpoint.

To drive in Algeria, you’ll need your home country’s valid license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Without both, you could be fined, denied a rental car, or left dealing with insurance issues if something goes wrong.

Algeria has frequent police checks, car rental agencies that won’t hand over keys without an IDP, and insurance companies that may deny claims if you don’t have the right documents.

If you’re dreaming of exploring Algeria by road—beaches, deserts, or mountain towns—don’t let paperwork ruin it. I’ll walk you through everything you need to stay on the right side of the rules and enjoy your trip.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a travel document that translates your home driver’s license into several languages. Algeria requires one for most foreign drivers.

It’s not a standalone license. You must carry it alongside your original, valid license. If your license is in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet (like Hindi or Cyrillic), the IDP helps police and rental companies understand your credentials.

It’s officially called an IDP. Some websites sell “International Driving Licenses,” but many of those are not recognized and could get you in trouble.

Stick to getting an IDP from an officially approved provider—like the International Drivers Association.

Yes. If you’re driving as a tourist or short-term visitor, Algeria expects you to carry an IDP.

You can drive for up to 3 months with it. After that, long-term residents must apply for a local Algerian license.

Even if some government websites don’t make it 100% clear, rental companies, police, and embassies say the same thing: bring your IDP.

Yes. Most rental companies in Algeria ask for an IDP—especially if your license isn’t in French or Arabic.

Show up without it and you might not get the keys. Some companies refuse rentals if you can’t present both your national license and IDP.

Save yourself the hassle and get one before you fly.

You can’t get a valid IDP in Algeria. You must get it from the same country that issued your home license—before you travel.

If you’re from the US, UK, Canada, India, or anywhere else, you can apply through your country’s authorized providers. IDA offers a fast and easy way to apply for an International Driving Permit online even if you’re short on time.

✅ Digital copy in minutes
✅ Printed copy shipped worldwide
✅ Valid in 150+ countries including Algeria
✅ Unlimited replacements available if you lose it

You legally can’t drive. You’ll need to get an IDP mailed from your home country.

Algeria doesn’t issue IDPs to foreign license holders. If you forget or lose yours, contact the original issuer—like AAA or contact IDA—and ask if they can ship it internationally.

You’ll need to request a new one from your home country’s issuer. Algeria won’t replace it.

If you got your IDP from International Drivers Association, you’re in luck—they offer free replacements for the same permit period.

While you wait, don’t drive. Keep a copy of the police report (if stolen), but know that only the original IDP is valid for driving.

Not without an IDP. Algeria requires both your license and an IDP.

This also applies to other countries like the UK, Italy, and Canada. Even if your license is widely accepted elsewhere, it won’t be enough on its own in Algeria.

No—not by itself. You still need to carry an IDP.

Even if Turkey and Algeria are close trade partners, local police checkpoints and rental companies will still ask for both documents.

An IDP for Algeria is valid for one year, or until your home license expires—whichever comes first.

You must show it along with your national license anytime you’re stopped or renting a car.

• Planning to rent a car in Algeria
• Avoiding fines at checkpoints
• Making sure your travel insurance stays valid
• Preventing issues if you're pulled over by police
• Exploring Algeria on your own schedule

You could face fines, have your license confiscated, or worse—your insurance claim rejected.

Penalties include:

• Fines up to DZD 20,000
• Possible detention or vehicle seizure
• Insurance denial in case of accident
• Police questioning or extra delays at checkpoints

Many insurance companies may deny your claim if you weren’t driving with a valid IDP.

If you get into an accident, your coverage could be void—leaving you with out-of-pocket costs for damage, injury, or even legal fees.

It’s not worth the risk.

Tourists can drive for up to 3 months with their national license and IDP. After that, you must get a local Algerian license.

For long-term stays, head to your local daïra (provincial office) and request the license conversion. This often requires proof of residency and a certified translation of your home license.

Fees vary depending on location and application type, but expect around DZD 5,000–10,000.

Additional fees may apply for tests, medical exams, and translations if you're converting your license.

Algeria recognizes IDPs under the 1949 Geneva Convention. That includes countries like:

• USA
• UK
• India
• Canada
• Italy
• France
• Turkey
• Australia
• South Africa
  

Always check with your national authority for the latest list.

If you're staying more than 3 months, you’ll need to apply for an Algerian license.

Visit your local administrative office ("daïra") with your residency documents and driving history.

Don’t wait until your IDP runs out—start the process early.

Apply easily through InternationalDriversAssociation.com.

They accept applications from over 150 countries and ship worldwide.

All you need is:

• A valid driver's license from your home country
• A photo
• An online form
• A few minutes of your time
  

✅ Digital copy in 8 minutes
✅ Unlimited replacements
✅ Fast worldwide delivery

Before you rent a car, fill up the tank, or hit the road—make sure your papers are in order.

An IDP isn’t just a document. It’s your passport to freedom on Algeria’s roads.

Navigate Algerian roads safely with our driving guide. Get tips on traffic rules, road conditions, and essential advice for driving in Algeria.