Loading Page...

Can you rent a car in Europe with a temporary license?

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.



Renting a car in Europe with a temporary (paper) license is extremely difficult and often impossible, as most major rental agencies—such as Europcar, Sixt, and Hertz—require a valid, original, and physical plastic driver's license at the time of pickup. Temporary licenses are often not recognized internationally because they lack the security features, photos, and standardized "Roman alphabet" translations required for legal verification in foreign countries. Even if you have an International Driving Permit (IDP), it is generally considered a translation and is only valid when accompanied by your permanent, original license. Some local agencies might theoretically accept a temporary license if it is accompanied by a passport and an official government translation, but this is a high-risk strategy that frequently leads to a "denial of service" at the rental counter. If you are currently using a temporary license while waiting for a permanent one in the mail, it is highly recommended to wait until the physical card arrives before attempting to rent a vehicle in Europe to avoid being stranded without transportation or forfeiting your prepaid reservation.

People Also Ask

If you have a valid license from your home state, you can drive in European countries for up to 90 days without further documentation. However, once you have spent more than 90 days in Europe and wish to continue driving there, it is recommended that you get an International Driver's License (IDL).

MORE DETAILS

Two proofs of address, such as a utility bill or bank statement that is no more than three months old. Additional photo ID, such as a passport. One major credit card in your name. An international driving permit is required for non-European driver's license holders.

MORE DETAILS

Currently, there is only one place for US licensed drivers to get an International Drivers Permits. They can be obtained from American Automobile Association (AAA). There are many places online that offer translated licenses, but AAA is the only certified provider by the US State Department to issue them.

MORE DETAILS

Do I Need an IDP in Germany? Licensed Americans looking to rent a car in Germany should be aware they need an IDP to pick-up and drive their rental in Germany. IDPs are also required if you are looking to drive outside of the country in neighboring Austria.

MORE DETAILS

Some Portuguese car rental companies require you to have a photo ID license. If your foreign licence does not have a photo ID, you should get an IDP before travelling to Portugal if you intend to rent a car. UK drivers with the new-style photo card licence will need both the paper counterpart and photo card.

MORE DETAILS

Customers renting on a UK driver's licence and driving in the EEA and Switzerland do not need an international driving permit (IDP) to rent a vehicle from 1 January 2021.

MORE DETAILS

We've put together a guide for renters parking a car in Munich. Auto Europe has great rates on international one-way rentals so you can take your rental car to Zurich, Salzburg or Prague at a great low rate.

MORE DETAILS