International Driving Permit for United Kingdom
The United Kingdom drives on the left, and roundabouts are a defining feature of its road network, taken clockwise. Many visitors can drive on their home licence for a limited period, with an IDP mainly helping those whose licences are not in English or are issued outside recognised systems.
Do you need an IDP to drive in United Kingdom?
Most visitors can drive in the UK on their valid foreign licence, so an IDP is only useful for licences not issued 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 United Kingdom: key facts
- Driving is on the left, and roundabouts are navigated in a clockwise direction.
- Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and using a handheld phone while driving is illegal.
- Speed limits are posted in miles per hour, with motorways generally limited to 70 mph.
How to get your IDP for United Kingdom
Getting your International Driving Permit for United Kingdom 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 United Kingdom.
Frequently asked questions about driving in United Kingdom
Do I need an IDP to drive in the UK?
Many visitors can drive in the UK on a valid foreign licence without an IDP for a limited period. An IDP is mainly useful if your licence is not in English or the Latin alphabet.
Can I rent a car in the UK with a foreign licence?
Yes, you can rent with a valid foreign licence, though some agencies may request an IDP or a licence check code for non-English documents.
What side of the road does the UK drive on?
The United Kingdom drives on the left-hand side of the road.
What is the minimum age to drive in the UK?
You can hold a full car licence and drive from 17 in the UK, but rental companies typically require drivers to be at least 21, often 25.
Other countries in Europe
International Driving Permit for United Kingdom
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