GOV.UK
Driving abroad
Driving abroad on holiday
You need your Great Britain or Northern Ireland driving licence to drive abroad on holiday.
You can use:
- a photocard licence
- a valid paper-only licence issued before 31 March 2000, if you still have one
If you’re hiring a car, the hire company may ask for a check code so they can view your driving record.
Check if you need an international driving permit (IDP)
You might also need an international driving permit (IDP) to drive in some non-EU countries. Check if you need an IDP.
Don’t apply for an IDP if you’re moving abroad. You need to get a local driving licence instead.
Driving in Europe after Brexit
If the UK leaves the EU without a deal on 29 March 2019, you might also need an IDP to drive in all EU and European Economic Area (EEA) countries, apart from Ireland. Check if you’ll need an IDP.
Driving in the Republic of Ireland
You can drive in the Republic of Ireland if you have either:
- a UK driving licence
- a foreign driving licence, but you usually live in the UK
If you’re banned (disqualified) from driving while in the Republic of Ireland, you might also be banned from driving in the UK.
Advice on driving in specific countries
The AA has advice on driving in specific countries, including information on compulsory equipment.