The International Driving Permit is an official translation of your driver’s licence. It is recognised in 200 countries.1 When you drive in other countries, you should carry it with your original driver’s licence.
This guide applies to you if:
- You live in Germany
- You have a German driving licence
- You want to drive in a country that requires an International Driving Permit
With a German driver’s licence
If you have a German driver’s licence, you must book a Bürgeramt appointment for an Internationaler Führerschein. The ADAC does not issue International Driver Permits anymore.2
Go to your appointment and bring…
- 15€ for the fees
- A biometric picture
- A valid German driver’s licence
Temporary licences issued to new drivers (vorläufiger Nachweis der Fahrerlaubnis) are not accepted. You must bring a valid plastic driving licence (Kartenführerschein).
You will get a International Driving Permit during your appointment. It’s valid for 3 years.
With a non-German driver’s licence
The Bürgeramt only gives International Driving Permits for German driving licences. If you have a driver’s licence from another country, you must follow different steps. In most cases, you must request the International Driving Permit in your country of origin.
- Canada: From the CAA, while in Canada. No other authority can issue them.
- United States: The AAA can mail International Driving Permits overseas.
- Great Britain: From the AA, the RAC or the Post Office. You can also request a British IDP by post.