Applying for an IDP
How to get an International Driving Permit
Please follow the steps below to apply for an IDP.
Remember, an IDP is a permit for use in conjunction with your driving licence, not in place of it. In some countries, you risk being fined or worse for relying solely on an IDP.
Before applying for an IDP you must:
- check the IDP requirements by country to see which type of IDP you need and check for any special conditions
- read the Important notes
Apply at selected post offices
You can obtain an IDP over the counter at many post offices.
You must apply IN PERSON (no third-party applications). You must complete an application form, available from the post office. You must also produce one of the following ORIGINAL valid documents:
- your UK driving licence (if photocard licence: photocard and counterpart), or
- your UK pass certificate (certificate of competence to drive, valid for two years from the date of your test), together with your provisional driving licence
For a list of post offices that can provide an IDP select one of the documents below:
National Post Offices (word version)
National Post Offices (pdf version)
This document must be accompanied by a recent passport-sized photograph on photographic paper, signed on the back and showing full face against a light background, together with some other acceptable signed proof of identity (eg passport). The statutory charge for a permit is £5.50.
Apply at AA Dover/AA Folkestone
You may apply at AA Dover (Eastern Docks Terminal) or, if travelling via Eurotunnel, AA Folkestone (Eurotunnel Passenger Terminal). You must complete an application form and produce one of the following ORIGINAL valid documents:
- your UK driving licence (if photocard licence, photocard and counterpart), or
- your UK pass certificate (certificate of competence to drive, valid for two years from the date of your test), together with your provisional driving licence, or
- your DVLA confirmation of entitlement to drive
By post
If it's not convenient for you to get to a post office, you may apply by post to the AA. However, please note that your application may take at least 10 working days to be processed from the date of receipt.
Print off an application form and complete the details. Then send it to the address shown on the form, including your payment and the relevant documents (see the IDP checklist on the form).
Open or download an application form (link opens a new window).
If you cannot supply a copy of your UK driving licence or pass certificate or DVLA confirmation, please include an additional £4.00 search fee with your remittance, as we will need to check your driving entitlement. This search procedure is NOT available to the holders of Northern Ireland licences, who must contact their issuing authority direct.
If you need your documents to be processed within five working days of receipt, please enclose an additional £4.00 priority fee, and mark the envelope in which you send your application 'PRIORITY IDP'.
All International Driving Permits will be returned to UK addresses by standard first class mail, unless the optional special delivery fee is paid. We do not accept responsibility for items that may be delayed or lost in the post.
Processing fee
Due to administration costs, all postal applications must include a £2.00 processing fee.
UK registered post
For UK applicants who want their permits returned by registered, guaranteed next day delivery, please enclose an additional £5.00. The use of this service is optional. A signature will be required at the delivery address.
Overseas mail
For all permits to be returned to an overseas address, an additional £5.00 postage is payable. A signature may be required on delivery.
Check that you have signed and completed the application form in full, attached the supporting documentary evidence and enclosed the correct payment. Any incomplete applications will automatically be returned to you.