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Can I hire a car in Greece with a UK paper driving Licence?

EU citizens only need to show a copy of their EU driving license. If you are from another country (including US and UK driving license holders), you may need to have an International Driving Permit depending on where you are from.



Yes, you can hire a car in Greece with a UK paper driving license, but you are legally required to hold an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside it. Following Brexit, the rules for UK drivers in the EU became more standardized. While those with the modern "photocard" license usually do not need an IDP for short visits to Greece, the older paper-only licenses are not considered sufficient on their own by Greek authorities or insurance providers. Specifically, you will need a 1968 IDP, which can be obtained easily at most UK Post Offices for a small fee (around £5.50). When you arrive at the rental desk in Athens, Crete, or any other Greek destination, you must present your original paper license, your IDP, and your passport. It is also worth checking with your specific rental agency in advance, as some smaller local firms may have stricter internal policies regarding older license formats to ensure their insurance coverage remains valid in the event of an accident.

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An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a requirement to legally rent a car in Greece. It is mandatory to accompany your valid domestic driver's license with an IDP at the time of receiving your car rental. The UN itself does not issue driving permits and uses authorized travel associations to administer the service.

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You need to carry your UK driving licence with you. You do not need an international driving permit ( IDP ) to visit and drive in the EU , Switzerland, Iceland or Liechtenstein. You might need an IDP to drive in some EU countries and Norway if you have: a paper driving licence.

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An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a requirement to legally rent a car in Greece. It is mandatory to accompany your valid domestic driver's license with an IDP at the time of receiving your car rental. The UN itself does not issue driving permits and uses authorized travel associations to administer the service.

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U.S. citizen tourists/temporary residents with stays less than six months with a valid United States driver's license can drive in Greece with their U.S. license. For stays more than 185 days in Greece: A Greek license may be required.

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Right turns of red traffic lights: unlike what is allowed in some countries, in Greece you are not allowed to make a right turn on a red traffic light, unless there is a distinct, separate, traffic light placed showing a green or pulsing orange right turn signal .

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To rent a car in Greece, you must be at least 21 years old (age may vary by car category) and you must have held your license for at least 1 year. Drivers renting a car under the age of 25 may incur a young driver surcharge. An international drivers license is required.

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All drivers must present a valid non-expired driver's license at the time of rental. Those holding a license issued in a Non-Latin-Letter Alphabet must also present a valid International Drivers Permit. All overseas renters require a passport as well as a driving license.

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