Do You Need an International Driving Permit to Rent a Car in Greece? Driving in EU Countries

Based on the latest information from official sources and recent traveler experiences, here's what you need to know about renting a car in Greece with or without an International Driving Permit (I.D.P.):

Current Requirements for Greece (as of 2025) Driving in EU Countries

Greece changed its laws in November 2021 (Law 4850, Article 25) to recognize driver's licenses from several countries without requiring an IDP You do not need an IDP to rent a car in Greece if you hold a valid driver's license from:

• The United States
• Canada
• The United Kingdom
• Australia
• Any European Union member state

When You Still Might Need an IDP Driving in EU Countries

While the Greek government no longer requires an IDP for drivers from the above countries, there are some exceptions where having one could be beneficial:

1. Non-Roman Alphabet Licenses: If your license is in a language that doesn't use the Roman alphabet (like Chinese, Arabic, or Cyrillic), you'll need an IDP for translation.
2. Rental Company Policies: Some car rental agencies may still ask for an IDP despite the law change, especially in rural areas or smaller companies.
3. Traveling to Other Countries: If your trip includes countries like Italy where IDPs are still required, it's wise to get one.
4. Police Interactions: While rare, some officers might not be aware of the law change, and an IDP could prevent complications.

How to Get an IDP (If Needed) Driving in EU Countries

If you determine you need an IDP, here are your options: Online Services: Some websites offer digital IDPs with faster processing (15 minutes to 2 hours), though these may not be officially recognized everywhere.

Important Considerations  Driving in EU Countries

• Validity: IDPs are typically valid for 1 year from issue date and cannot exceed the validity of your domestic license.
• Not a Standalone Document: An IDP is only valid when presented with your original driver's license.
• Peace of Mind: Many travelers recommend getting one anyway for just $20 to avoid potential issues.

Driving in EU Countries

While Greece's updated laws mean most travelers from Western countries can rent cars without an IDP, it's worth checking with your specific rental company and considering your full itinerary. The small cost and effort to obtain an IDP may be worthwhile insurance against unexpected complications during your trip

VIENNA CONVENTION DRIVING LICENCES EU COUNTRIES

The Vienna Convention on Road Traffic (1968) is an international treaty designed to standardize traffic rules and facilitate cross-border driving among its signatory countries. Here’s how it relates to driving licences in EU countries:

 EU Countries Party to the Vienna Convention Driving in EU Countries

Most EU member states are contracting parties to the Vienna Convention, including Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and others. Notable exceptions include Ireland and Malta, which follow the older 1949 Geneva Convention instead.

Recognition of Driving Licences  Driving in EU Countries

• EU/EEA Licences: Under EU law, driving licences issued by any EU/EEA member state are mutually recognized across the bloc, regardless of the Vienna Convention.
• Non-EU Licences: For drivers from non-EU countries, the Vienna Convention allows the use of an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside a national licence. The IDP (1968 model) is valid for up to 3 years but cannot exceed the validity of the domestic licence .

• Key Rules for Driving in EU Countries

• Tourists: Visitors from non-EU countries (e.g., the U.S.) must carry an IDP or an official translation of their licence in some EU states (e.g., Austria).
• Residents: Non-EU nationals residing in an EU country typically must convert their licence within 6 months (e.g., Austria) or pass local tests.
• IDP Requirements: Some EU countries (e.g., Germany, France) recognize the 1968 IDP, while others (e.g., Spain) may require additional checks for non-EU licences.

Exceptions and Special Cases  Driving in EU Countries

• UK Licences: Post-Brexit, the UK follows the Vienna Convention, but EU recognition varies. Some countries may require an IDP for longer stays.
• Autonomous Driving: The Vienna Convention was amended in 2021 to accommodate autonomous vehicles, but EU countries may impose additional local regulations.

5. Practical Tips Driving in EU Countries

• Check if your destination country follows the Vienna Convention (e.g., UN Treaty Database).
• For EU residents, an EEA-style licence (credit-card format) is sufficient for driving across the bloc .

For a full list of Vienna Convention signatories, see UN Treaty Status. Athenscars is following the car insurance law in EU.