How Long Is an International Driving Permit Valid?

Most IDPs are issued for a fixed term in the range of one to three years. The exact period can depend on which international framework the permit is issued under and the duration you select when applying.

The validity start is usually the issue date, so it is worth timing your application close to your trip if you want maximum coverage. Check the dates printed on your IDP so you know precisely when it ceases to be valid.

Because an IDP translates your national licence, it can never extend beyond the validity of that licence. If your licence expires partway through your IDP's term, the IDP is no longer valid from that point, regardless of its own expiry date.

This means you should confirm your national licence has plenty of validity left before you apply. Renewing or replacing your licence later does not automatically refresh your IDP, so you would typically need a new IDP to match the renewed licence.

Factors include the convention under which the permit is issued, the term you choose at application, and the remaining validity of your national licence. Some travellers deliberately pick a shorter term for a single trip, while long-term travellers prefer the longest available.

A permit is also only meaningful where it is recognized, so being within the validity dates is necessary but not sufficient on its own. Always pair an in-date IDP with an in-date national licence and check the requirements of the country you are visiting.

When your IDP nears its expiry, or after you renew your national licence, you simply apply for a new one rather than extending the old document. With International Drivers you can reapply online and receive a fresh digital IDP quickly.

Plan ahead for longer stays abroad so you do not find yourself with an expired permit mid-trip. Keeping note of both your IDP and licence expiry dates avoids any gap in your documentation.