International Driving Permit for Guernsey
Guernsey, a Channel Island and British Crown Dependency, drives on the left and is known for its distinctive yellow grid road markings and a unique island speed limit. The compact lanes and a famous filter-in-turn priority system at certain junctions make for an unusual but manageable driving experience.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Guernsey?
Most visitors can drive in Guernsey on a valid foreign licence, so an IDP is usually optional but useful if your licence is not in English or the Latin alphabet.
Quick facts
- Driving side
- Left
- Minimum driving age
- 17 years
- Region
- Europe
- IDP
- Useful
Local languages: English
Driving in Guernsey: key facts
- Guernsey has a low island-wide maximum speed limit, with even lower limits in town and on its many narrow lanes.
- Yellow lines and arrows mark priority, and the island uses a courteous filter-in-turn system at some junctions where drivers alternate.
- Roads are narrow with high hedges and stone walls, so cautious speeds and seatbelt use are important throughout the island.
How to get your IDP for Guernsey
Getting your International Driving Permit for Guernsey 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 Guernsey.
Frequently asked questions about driving in Guernsey
Do I need an IDP to drive in Guernsey?
An IDP is generally not required for visitors holding a valid licence, but it is useful if your licence is not printed in English so it can be readily understood.
Can I rent a car in Guernsey with a foreign licence?
Yes, rental companies accept valid foreign licences, and an IDP can serve as a helpful translation if your licence is in a non-Latin script.
What side of the road does Guernsey drive on?
Guernsey drives on the left-hand side of the road, like the rest of the British Isles.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Guernsey?
The minimum driving age is 17, but rental agencies usually require drivers to be older, often at least 21 or 25, and to have held a licence for a set time.
Other countries in Europe
International Driving Permit for Guernsey
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