International Driving Permit for Iceland
Iceland drives on the right, and its dramatic ring road circles a landscape of glaciers, lava fields and waterfalls where weather and conditions change fast. Off-road driving is strictly illegal to protect fragile nature, and many interior F-roads require a 4x4 and are open only in summer.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Iceland?
Most foreign licences in Latin script are accepted for driving in Iceland, so an IDP is useful mainly as a backup translation rather than a strict requirement.
Quick facts
- Driving side
- Right
- Minimum driving age
- 16 years
- Region
- Europe
- IDP
- Useful
Local languages: Icelandic
Driving in Iceland: key facts
- Vehicles drive on the right and off-road driving is banned to protect the environment.
- Headlights must be on at all times, day and night, and seatbelts are mandatory for everyone.
- Interior highland F-roads need a 4x4 and are typically passable only in summer; the minimum driving age is 16 but hire firms require more.
How to get your IDP for Iceland
Getting your International Driving Permit for Iceland 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 Iceland.
Frequently asked questions about driving in Iceland
Do I need an IDP to drive in Iceland?
Most foreign licences in a Latin alphabet are accepted, so an International Driving Permit is useful as a translation backup rather than a legal must.
Can I rent a car in Iceland with a foreign licence?
Yes, rental companies accept a valid foreign licence, and an IDP can help if your licence is not in a Latin script.
What side of the road does Iceland drive on?
Iceland drives on the right-hand side of the road.
What is the minimum age to drive in Iceland?
The minimum driving age is 16, but car-hire companies typically require drivers to be at least 20, and older for larger or 4x4 vehicles.
Other countries in Europe
International Driving Permit for Iceland
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