International Driving Permit for Germany

Germany drives on the right and is famous for the Autobahn, parts of which still have no general speed limit, though a recommended cruising speed of 130 km/h applies. EU and EEA licences are accepted directly, while many other foreign drivers can use their licence for short visits, often paired with an IDP. Strict lane discipline, keeping right except to overtake, and giving way to faster traffic are essential on German motorways.

Do you need an IDP to drive in Germany?

Useful

Visitors from the EU/EEA can drive in Germany on their home licence, and most other tourists are fine for short stays, but non-EU drivers whose licence is not in Latin script or lacks an English translation should carry an IDP.

Driving side: Right
Minimum driving age: 17 years
Region: Europe
IDP: Useful

Local languages: German

Driving in Germany: key facts

Some Autobahn sections have no general speed limit but a 130 km/h advisory speed, while built-up areas are usually capped at 50 km/h and many residential zones at 30 km/h.
Major cities operate low-emission environmental zones (Umweltzonen) that require a windscreen emissions sticker to enter.
Driving is on the right, seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and the blood-alcohol limit is 0.05 percent, with zero tolerance for novice and under-21 drivers.

How to get your IDP for Germany

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

1
Apply online
Complete a short application in about 2 minutes — no paperwork or appointments.
2
Upload your documents
Add a photo of your national driving licence and a passport-style photo.
3
Get your IDP instantly
Receive your digital International Driving Permit by email, ready to use in Germany.

Frequently asked questions about driving in Germany

Do I need an IDP to drive in Germany?

EU and EEA licences are valid as-is, and many other visitors can drive for short stays, but an IDP is useful and recommended if your licence is not in the Latin alphabet.

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

Yes, rental firms accept valid foreign licences, and an IDP may be requested if your licence is not in German or English or uses a non-Latin script.

What side of the road does Germany drive on?

Germany drives on the right-hand side of the road, and you must keep right and overtake on the left.

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

You can hold a car licence from 17 in Germany, but rental companies typically require drivers to be at least 18 or 21, with surcharges and restrictions for younger drivers.

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