International Driving Permit for Greenland
Greenland drives on the right, and its road network is famously isolated — there are no roads connecting towns, so all driving happens within and immediately around individual settlements like Nuuk. With so little intercity traffic, most visitors get around by boat, plane, or helicopter, and renting a car is mainly useful for exploring a single town and its short surrounding routes.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Greenland?
An IDP is not strictly required for most short-term visitors in Greenland, but carrying one alongside your national licence is wise since road infrastructure is limited and Greenlandic or Danish may be the only languages local officials read.
Quick facts
- Driving side
- Right
- Minimum driving age
- 17 years
- Region
- Americas
- IDP
- Useful
Local languages: Greenlandic, Danish
Driving in Greenland: key facts
- There are no roads linking Greenland's towns; each settlement has its own short, self-contained road network, so road trips between cities are impossible.
- Winter conditions are severe, with snow, ice, and limited daylight, so studded or winter tyres and cautious driving are essential for much of the year.
- Fuel stations and vehicle services are sparse outside the largest towns, so plan trips carefully and carry a national licence and passport at all times.
How to get your IDP for Greenland
Getting your International Driving Permit for Greenland takes only a few minutes:
- 1Apply online
Complete a short application in about 2 minutes — no paperwork or appointments.
- 2Upload your documents
Add a photo of your national driving licence and a passport-style photo.
- 3Get your IDP instantly
Receive your digital International Driving Permit by email, ready to use in Greenland.
Frequently asked questions about driving in Greenland
Do I need an IDP to drive in Greenland?
An IDP is generally not mandatory for short visits, but it is helpful to carry one with your national licence, especially since Greenlandic and Danish are the working languages and your home-country licence may not be easily understood.
Can I rent a car in Greenland with a foreign licence?
Yes, rental options exist in larger towns such as Nuuk and Ilulissat, and a valid foreign licence is usually accepted; an IDP or certified translation can smooth the process with smaller operators.
What side of the road does Greenland drive on?
Greenland drives on the right-hand side of the road, the same as Denmark, which administers it.
What is the minimum age to drive in Greenland?
The minimum driving age in Greenland is 17, though car rental companies typically set their own higher minimum age and may add a young-driver surcharge.
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International Driving Permit for Greenland
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