How to Hire a Car in Europe with an International Driving Permit

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Can you imagine exploring Europe at your own pace, with no schedules, no rush, and the chance to discover those hidden gems that most travellers miss? Touring by car gives you that ultimate freedom: pull over whenever you fancy, change your route, and turn step of the journey into part of the adventure. But before you get behind the wheel, there’s one key question that could put the brakes on your plans: do you need an International Driving Permit to hire a car in Europe?

The answer isn't always as straightforward as it seems and depends on a few factors that many travellers don't realise until the very last minute.

In this guide by CarJet, we answer all your questions, explain the requirements, and give you top tips so you can hire a car in Europe without any hassle.

What is an International Driving Permit and why do you need it?

The International Driving Permit (IDP), also known as an international driving licence, is a document that translates your national licence into several languages, making it valid in many countries across the world.

It doesn’t replace your original licence; instead, it complements it. In other words, you must always carry both documents whenever you are driving abroad.

Its main purpose is to make it easier for authorities and car hire companies to verify your details, especially in countries where the language or the format of your domestic licence might cause confusion.

In Which European Countries do you Need an International Permit to Hire a Car?

Whether or not you need to present an international permit in Europe depends primarily on where your original licence was issued.

Generally, if your licence was issued in a country that uses the Latin alphabet and has international agreements in place, you might not need the international permit. However, there are situations where it is either mandatory or highly recommended:

In certain European countries, car hire companies will insist on an international permit if your licence is not in English or another easily recognisable language. It is also usually compulsory if your licence uses a different alphabet, such as Arabic, Cyrillic, or Asian scripts.

Even if the hire company doesn't ask for it at the desk, authorities may require it during a routine police check.

Because of this, even when it isn't strictly mandatory, we’d suggest bringing one along anyway to avoid any potential headaches.

If you book a hire car in Europe through CarJet, the hire company will require an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence whenever the original has been issued outside of Europe.

Requirements for Hiring a Car in Europe as a Foreign Visitor

Hiring a car in Europe as a visitor is a straightforward process, provided you meet a few basic requirements.

The minimum age is usually 21, though this can vary depending on the company and the type of vehicle. Additionally, many suppliers require the driver to have held their licence for a minimum of one or two years.

Regarding documents, you will typically need:

• Your original driving licence.
• An International Driving Permit (if you are from outside Europe).
• A valid passport or ID card.
• A credit or debit card in the name of the main driver (depending on your booking conditions).

It is also important to note that some companies may apply additional surcharges for young drivers or those under a certain age.

For all these reasons, we recommend that if you’re hiring a car in Europe with CarJet, you carefully check your booking conditions. There, you’ll find all the necessary information, including the specific requirements set by the car hire company.

Hire Car Insurance in Europe: Everything You Need to Know

Insurance is one of the most important parts of hiring a car. Most hire cars include basic insurance with an excess, which means that if the car is damaged, you’ll have to pay a portion of the repair costs.

What insurance options do you have when booking with CarJet?

• Basic Insurance: All vehicles include third-party cover with an excess. This means that in the event of damage, the driver is responsible for paying the amount up to that excess.
• Platinum Insurance: During the booking process, you can add extra cover that protects your excess. This way, if you are charged for any damage, you can claim it back for a refund. This option usually includes cover for things like windscreens, mirrors, wheels, and tyres. It’s also typically much cheaper than taking out similar insurance at the hire desk, giving you peace of mind from the moment you set off.
• Company Insurance: You also have the option to buy insurance directly from the hire desk when you pick up the car.

If you opt for Platinum Insurance through CarJet, you will still need to leave a deposit at the desk, but you can request a refund for any damages covered by the policy. It’s always important to check the terms and conditions to know exactly what is and isn't included.

FAQs about Hiring a Car in Europe with an International Permit

How to get an International Driving Permit Step-by-Step

Getting an IDP is a quick and relatively inexpensive process. You’ll need to apply through the official motoring or traffic authority in your country. In most cases, you can do this in person or even online.

You’ll normally be asked for:

• A copy of your current driving licence.
• A recent passport-sized photo.
• A completed application form.
• Payment of an administration fee.

The document is usually issued on the same day or within a few days, and it’s valid for one year from the date of issue. It’s well worth planning in advance, especially if you’re travelling during the peak season.

Is an International Permit Compulsory for Driving, or Just for Hiring?

This is one of the most common questions we get, and the answer is: it depends.

In some European countries, you are legally allowed to drive with your national licence if it meets certain criteria. However, the car hire company will almost always insist on seeing an International Driving Permit as a condition of handing over the keys.

Carrying an international permit is the best way to avoid any unnecessary risks or delays during your trip.

How Do YouHirea Car in Europe?

To ensure everything runs smoothly, there are a few key tips you should keep in mind.

1. Booking in advance is essential, especially during the peak season, as prices tend to rise and availability drops.
2. Choosing the right insurance is also crucial. Many basic rates only include limited cover, so it’s often well worth taking out extra protection.
3. Reading the terms and conditions carefully will help you avoid any surprises. Pay close attention to the fuel policy, mileage limits, and any potential extra fees.
4. Before you drive away, check the car for any existing damage and take photos to avoid any disagreements when you drop it back off.

The Benefits of Hiring a Car for your European Trip with CarJet

Hiring a car in Europe through CarJet comes with plenty of advantages. The main one, of course, is the freedom to get around. You can travel at your own pace without being tied down by public transport timetables.

It also gives you the chance to reach those lesser known destinations, like smaller villages, national parks, or rural spots, that aren’t always easy to get to by train or bus.

It can often work out to be much more cost-effective, especially if you’re travelling in a group or planning to visit several different cities.