Which countries can I drive with UK license?

You do not need an IDP to drive in the EU , Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein if you have a photocard driving licence issued in the UK.



You can drive with a UK driving licence in many countries, but the rules vary significantly depending on whether you are a visitor/tourist or a resident, and whether you have an older paper licence or the newer photocard licence.

Here’s a general breakdown, but you must always check the latest official advice before you travel.

1. Driving as a Visitor (Short-Term Tourism/Rental)

In most countries, you can use your valid UK driving licence for a short visit (typically up to 3-12 months). Key destinations include:

  • European Union (EU) & European Economic Area (EEA) countries: You can use your UK licence to drive when visiting. You do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you have a UK photocard licence. If you have an older paper licence, you may need an IDP for some countries (check below).
  • United States & Canada: You can use your UK licence to rent and drive a car. Rules are set by individual states/provinces, but UK licences are widely accepted for tourists.
  • Australia & New Zealand: You can drive on your UK licence as a visitor (usually for 3-12 months, depending on the state/territory).
  • Japan, South Korea, Singapore: UK licence holders can usually drive for short visits, but you will almost always need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your UK licence. Japan is particularly strict.
  • Many Commonwealth and other nations: Including South Africa, UAE, Malaysia, etc., often allow driving on a UK licence for tourists, sometimes with an IDP requirement.

Golden

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