Cyprus flag

International Driving Permit for Cyprus

Cyprus drives on the left-hand side, a legacy of its British colonial past that surprises many visitors arriving from continental Europe. Road signs are typically shown in both Greek and English, and the island's relaxed pace makes for enjoyable touring between mountain villages and coastal resorts.

Do you need an IDP to drive in Cyprus?

Useful

Visitors can usually drive in Cyprus on their valid national licence, but an International Driving Permit or certified translation is useful when your licence is issued in a non-Latin script such as Greek.

Quick facts

Driving side
Left
Minimum driving age
18 years
Region
Europe
IDP
Useful

Local languages: Greek, Turkish, English

Driving in Cyprus: key facts

  • Driving is on the left, and roundabouts are common, so give way to traffic already on the roundabout.
  • Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants and using a handheld phone while driving is prohibited.
  • Speed limits and distances are posted in kilometres, with motorways generally capped around 100 km/h.

How to get your IDP for Cyprus

Getting your International Driving Permit for Cyprus takes only a few minutes:

  1. 1
    Apply online

    Complete a short application in about 2 minutes — no paperwork or appointments.

  2. 2
    Upload your documents

    Add a photo of your national driving licence and a passport-style photo.

  3. 3
    Get your IDP instantly

    Receive your digital International Driving Permit by email, ready to use in Cyprus.

Frequently asked questions about driving in Cyprus

Do I need an IDP to drive in Cyprus?

EU licences are accepted, and many other national licences are recognised for tourists. An IDP or certified translation is useful when your licence is not in the Latin alphabet.

Can I rent a car in Cyprus with a foreign licence?

Yes. Rental firms accept valid foreign licences, and many remind drivers that Cyprus drives on the left. Carry your passport and a credit card for the deposit.

What side of the road does Cyprus drive on?

Cyprus drives on the left-hand side of the road, unlike most of mainland Europe.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Cyprus?

The minimum driving age is 18, but rental companies typically require drivers to be at least 21 or 25 and to have held a licence for at least one to three years.

Other countries in Europe

International Driving Permit for Cyprus

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