International Drivers Permit
Get your International Driving Permit for Italy in 8 minutes
Your license instantly translated and valid in 150+ countries. Travel freely to multiple destinations with a single permit — use in unlimited countries during validity period.
Digital + Printed IDP – Always have a backup while traveling
Accepted in 189+ Countries – Drive legally, stress-free
Free English ID Card – Helps with language barriers
Meets Global Driving Standards – Recognized internationally
Perfect for Non-English Countries – No translation issues
Regulated travel document
See info about country limitations
Unlimited Replacements
Free of charge
24/7 Live Chat
Customer care
Already abroad or planning to leave very soon?
Get your Digital IDP online in minutes with your driver’s license and a passport photo.
An IDP is essential when driving in Italy
Rent Cars with Ease & Avoid Fines – Many countries and rental agencies require an International Driving Permit (IDP). Get yours in minutes and travel worry-free!
Excellent and amazing service on the chat with Patricia, within a few minutes received the digital copy of the IDP after the process was complete. Very impressed!
See more reviews
Recognized in over 150 countries, an IDP allows you to drive legally and confidently abroad. With an international driving permit, you see the world on multi-country trips that span borders, cultures, & beyond. Get informed about countries with IDP limitations.
Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, an international driver's license is an essential travel document that lets you rent a car, navigate foreign roads, and explore the world legally.
Translations in 12 languages make communicating with foreign officials and rental companies easier. This added convenience ensures you can navigate foreign roads safely and confidently.
Think of all the places you can go with one international driving permit! Valid for up to three years, it's the best choice for frequent travelers. Plan, explore, and stay longer - our IDP has you covered.
Obtain an IDP with full coverage and multiple guarantees. With our money-back policy and unlimited replacement, getting an international driver's license doesn't have to break the bank.
Do you have a question or need help with lost IDP? Reach out whenever and wherever; with our 24/7 customer service, you have a team ready to assist you with any international driving needs.
Wherever you are in the world, you will receive your IDP quickly and hassle-free. Our express shipping makes your international travel plans smoother, offering ultimate convenience.
International Driving Permit for Italy: Complete 2025 Guide
Driving through Italy is one of the most memorable ways to explore the country—whether you’re cruising the Amalfi Coast, crossing the Tuscan countryside, or weaving through the vibrant streets of Rome, Milan, and Florence. But before you get behind the wheel, you need to understand the rules.
For most non-EU visitors, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. Without it, you risk fines of €400–€1,600, denied rentals, or even invalid insurance. This guide explains IDP requirements, Italy’s driving laws, and how the International Drivers Association (IDA) can help you secure a permit with complete dual-convention coverage before your trip.
Do You Need an IDP in Italy?
- ✅ Yes – Required for all non-EU/EEA drivers (US, Canada, Australia, Asia, Latin America, etc.)
- ❌ No – EU/EEA licenses are accepted. UK photocard licenses are valid, but older paper licenses may require an IDP.
⚠️ Important: Fines under Article 135 of the Italian Traffic Code range from €408–€1,600 if you drive without an IDP or official translation.
What Is an IDP and Why It’s Required
An International Driving Permit is an official UN-recognized translation of your license into 12 languages, including Italian.
An IDP is:
- A translation under both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions
- Legally required for non-EU drivers in Italy
- Valid for 1 year
An IDP is not:
- A standalone license
- A replacement for your home license
- Something you can apply for once already in Italy
How to Get an IDP
You must apply before leaving your country. The International Drivers Association (IDA) makes it fast and reliable with dual-convention permits accepted in Italy and 240+ countries worldwide.
Why Travelers Choose IDA
- ✅ Complete dual-convention coverage (Geneva + Vienna)
- ✅ Digital copy in 2 hours, physical permit shipped worldwide
- ✅ Translations in 12+ languages, including Italian
- ✅ Unlimited replacements + 100% money-back guarantee
- ✅ 24/7 support in 30 languages
👉 Apply early for peace of mind before your trip.
Driving Rules in Italy: What Visitors Must Know
Road Orientation & Basics
- Drive on the right-hand side of the road
- Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers
- Children under 12 years or 150 cm must use proper car seats
Speed Limits
- Urban areas: 50 km/h
- Secondary roads: 90 km/h
- Main roads (strade extraurbane principali): 110 km/h
- Highways (autostrade): 130 km/h (110 km/h in rain)
Alcohol Limit
- Standard drivers: 0.05% BAC
- New drivers (<3 years licensed): 0.00% BAC
- Penalties: Heavy fines, license suspension, possible imprisonment
Mobile Phones
- Hands-free only. Holding a phone while driving carries fines over €160.
Renting a Car in Italy
To rent a car, you’ll need:
- Home driver’s license + IDP
- Passport
- Credit card in the main driver’s name
⚠️ Age requirements: Most companies require drivers to be at least 21. Drivers under 25 may pay a young driver surcharge.
⚠️ Even if a rental agent doesn’t check your IDP, they can refuse service without it.
Common Driving Challenges
The ZTL Trap (Zona Traffico Limitato)
- Found in most historic centers (Rome, Florence, Milan, Bologna, etc.)
- Unauthorized entry = fines from €80–€100 plus rental admin fees
- GPS apps rarely warn you—always check maps in advance
Toll Roads (Autostrade)
- Highways are tolled, marked with green signs
- Payment via card, cash, or Telepass system
Parking Rules
- Blue lines = paid parking
- White lines = free (time-limited in some cities)
- Yellow lines = reserved (residents, taxis, or disabled permits)
- Always display a parking ticket on your dashboard
IDP vs. Italian Translation
| Aspect | IDP (Best for Tourists) | Official Italian Translation |
|---|---|---|
| Where Obtained | IDA or home country | Sworn translator in Italy |
| Cost | From $49 | €50–€150 |
| Validity | 1 year | Duration of stay |
| Convenience | ✅ High | ❌ Low |
👉 Recommendation: Always get your IDP before traveling.
Special Cases Travelers Should Know
- Lost/Stolen IDP – Report immediately; IDA can issue a replacement.
- Motorcycles & Scooters – IDP only covers what your home license allows. Scooters over 125cc require a motorcycle endorsement.
- Residency – If you stay longer than 1 year as a resident, you must switch to an Italian license.
Quick FAQs
❌ No. An IDP is required for all non-EU drivers.
You risk fines, denied rentals, and invalid insurance.
❌ No. Only licensed drivers operating the vehicle.
❌ No. It must be issued in your home country before travel.
Final Checklist Before Driving in Italy
✅ Apply for your dual-convention IDP with IDA
✅ Carry both your home license + IDP at all times
✅ Keep passport, rental, and insurance documents handy
✅ Study ZTL rules in cities you plan to visit
✅ Park outside historic centers when possible
Conclusion: Drive Italy with Confidence
From the vineyards of Tuscany to the cliffside roads of Amalfi, Italy is best experienced by car. But preparation is key. For most foreign travelers, an International Driving Permit is legally required—and without it, you risk heavy fines, denied rentals, and invalid insurance.
The International Drivers Association (IDA) makes getting your permit simple, fast, and globally recognized. Every permit includes complete dual-convention coverage, ensuring acceptance not just in Italy but in 240+ countries worldwide.
👉 Start your application with IDA today and explore Italy’s roads safely, legally, and without worries.
Ready to check if an IDP is required in your destination?
Use the form and find out in seconds whether you need an international permit.
Question 1 of 3
Where was your license issued?
Risk-Free Pricing: 100% Money-Back Guarantee
Travel with confidence: Get a full refund if is not accepted + unlimited free replacements
You will receive a printed and digital International Driving Permit booklet and card. The digital IDP is sent in 8 minutes and your physical IDP will be mailed. for information on countries with IDP limitations.