International Driving Permit

Do You Need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Albania?

The official answer: Yes, Albania technically requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit alongside their valid driver’s license from their home country.

The real-world answer: Enforcement varies. Some travelers report never being asked for documentation, while others have been required to present it during police stops or when renting vehicles.

Our recommendation: Get an IDP. It costs around $20-30, takes minimal effort, and can save you from fines, rental complications, or being stranded if police demand it.

What Is an International Driving Permit?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a standalone driver’s license. It’s a translation document that proves you hold a valid license from your home country.

Key facts:

Translates your license into 10+ languages
Valid for 1 year from issue date
Must be carried alongside your original driver’s license
Recognized in 150+ countries that signed the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic
Does not replace your home license—both documents required

What an IDP is NOT:

Not a replacement for your driver’s license
Not valid without your original license
Not a way to avoid traffic violations or fines
Not a permanent license (expires after 1 year)

Who Needs an IDP in Albania?

Mandatory For:

Non-Latin Alphabet Licenses:

Arabic script licenses (Saudi Arabia, UAE, etc.)
Cyrillic script licenses (Russia, Ukraine, Serbia, etc.)
Chinese, Japanese, Korean licenses
Any license not using Latin characters

Why: Albanian police and rental agents cannot read your license without translation.

Strongly Recommended For:

All Non-European Union Licenses:

United States
Canada
Australia
New Zealand
United Kingdom (post-Brexit)
South America
Asia
Africa

Why: While some rental companies accept US, Canadian, or Australian licenses without an IDP, police may still request it. Having an IDP eliminates potential complications.

May Not Need (But Still Recommended):

European Union License Holders: EU licenses are widely recognized in Albania due to reciprocity agreements. However, an IDP still provides additional legal protection.

How to Get an International Driving Permit

Option 1: Online (Fastest Method)

Provider: International Drivers Association (IDA)

Process:

Visit the IDA website
Complete online application form
Upload:
- Scan of your driver’s license (both sides)
- Passport-style photo
Pay applicable fee (~$49-69)
Receive digital copy via email (same day)
Physical copy mailed to your address (5-10 business days)

Pros:

Fast (digital copy immediately)
Convenient (no in-person visit)
Works from anywhere in the world

Cons:

More expensive than AAA (if you’re in the US)
Some countries’ authorities don’t recognize online-issued IDPs

Note: Verify the online provider is legitimate. Scam sites exist. Stick to well-known providers like IDA.

Option 2: In-Person (US Travelers - AAA)

For United States Residents:

Where: Any AAA branch (you don’t need to be a AAA member)

Requirements:

Completed IDP application form (available at AAA)
Valid U.S. driver’s license
Two passport-sized photos (2” x 2”)
$20 fee (cash or card)

Processing Time: Issued same day

Pros:

Cheapest option for Americans ($20)
Official and widely recognized
Same-day processing

Cons:

Requires in-person visit
Only available in the US

AAA Website: aaa.com/vacation/idpf.html

Option 3: In-Person (Other Countries)

Check your country’s automobile association:

Canada: CAA (Canadian Automobile Association)
UK: Post Office or AA/RAC
Australia: AAA (Australian Automobile Association) or state motoring clubs
New Zealand: AA New Zealand

Process similar to AAA:

Visit office
Provide license, photos, fee
Receive IDP same day or within days

When to Get Your IDP

Timing:

Before you leave home (easiest and cheapest)
At least 2-3 weeks before travel (for mailed physical copies)
You cannot get an IDP while already in Albania

Validity:

IDPs are valid for 1 year from issue date
If you get it 3 months before your trip, it still expires in 9 months
For multiple trips, consider timing it for maximum coverage

Pro tip: Don’t wait until the last minute. Shipping delays or application issues can occur.

Using Your IDP in Albania

At Car Rental Counters

What to present:

Your original driver’s license from home country
Your International Driving Permit
Passport for identification
Credit card in driver’s name

Common scenarios:

International rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar):

Usually require IDP for non-EU licenses
May waive requirement for US/Canadian licenses (but not guaranteed)
Better safe than sorry—bring it

Local Albanian rental companies:

Policies vary widely
Some don’t ask for IDP
Others strictly enforce it

Pro tip: Ask about IDP requirements when booking. If they say it’s required, definitely bring it.

During Police Stops

If stopped by Albanian police:

Remain calm and polite
Present:
- Passport or ID
- Original driver’s license
- International Driving Permit
- Vehicle registration and insurance

Possible outcomes without IDP:

Warning (common for tourists)
Fine (amount varies, can be €40-100)
Vehicle impoundment (rare, but possible)
Required to park and call a licensed driver

Pro tip: Keep all documents easily accessible in the car, not buried in luggage.

Driving in Albania Without an IDP

Risks:

Rental denial: Some companies won’t rent without IDP
Fines: Police can fine you for not having proper documentation
Insurance complications: Accident claims may be denied if you weren’t legally licensed to drive
Vehicle impoundment: In extreme cases, car can be impounded
Legal liability: If involved in accident, lacking IDP can complicate legal proceedings

Anecdotal reports:

Many travelers have driven in Albania without an IDP and encountered no issues. However, this doesn’t mean it’s legal or risk-free. Albania is modernizing enforcement, and what worked in 2015 may not fly in 2025.

Our stance: The small cost and effort of getting an IDP far outweigh the potential hassle of not having one.

IDP Scams to Avoid

Red Flags:

“IDP valid for 3 years” — Real IDPs are valid for 1 year only
“IDP replaces your driver’s license” — False, you must carry both
Websites charging $200+ — Legitimate IDPs cost $20-70
“No original license needed” — You always need your original license
Suspicious websites with poor English — Stick to official sources (AAA, IDA, etc.)

Legitimate IDP sources:

AAA (USA)
CAA (Canada)
AA/RAC (UK)
International Drivers Association (online)
Your country’s official automobile association

If it seems too good to be true (instant online licenses, no documentation needed, lifetime validity), it’s a scam.

FAQ

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International Driver’s License?

No. There’s no such thing as an “International Driver’s License.” The correct term is International Driving Permit (IDP). Beware of scams selling fake “International Driver’s Licenses.”

Can I drive in Albania with just my US/Canadian/Australian license?

Legally, no. Albania requires an IDP alongside your foreign license. Some rental companies and police may overlook this, but it’s not guaranteed. Get an IDP to be safe.

How long is an IDP valid?

1 year from issue date. You cannot renew an IDP—you must apply for a new one when it expires.

Can I get an IDP while already in Albania?

No. IDPs must be obtained in your home country before travel. Plan ahead.

Do EU citizens need an IDP in Albania?

Not officially required due to reciprocity agreements, but having one provides extra legal protection. It’s inexpensive and easy to get—why risk it?

What if my IDP expires while I’m in Albania?

Your IDP remains valid until its expiration date. If it expires during your trip and you still need to drive, you may face issues. Plan your IDP timing carefully for long trips.

Will rental companies actually check for an IDP?

Depends on the company. International chains (Hertz, Avis) often require it. Local companies vary. Don’t gamble—get an IDP before you go.

Can I use my IDP to drive in other Balkan countries?

Yes. If you’re road-tripping through Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, or Greece, your IDP works there too (assuming you have cross-border insurance from your rental company).

Ready to Explore Albania by Car?

With your International Driving Permit sorted, you’re ready to experience Albania’s stunning landscapes by road. From the Albanian Riviera’s coastal highways to the dramatic mountain passes of the Albanian Alps, driving offers unparalleled freedom to explore this incredible country.

Next steps:

Last updated: November 2024. IDP requirements and procedures may change. Always verify current requirements before travel.