International Driving Permit

Who can get one, which version you need, and how to book the NDLS appointment.

How to apply Which IDP? NDLS phone numbers

Last checked against ndls.ie: 2 October 2026. Independent guide, not the NDLS or RSA.

Since the NDLS took over from the AA, International Driving Permits (IDPs) are issued at NDLS centres. They cost €15, last one year, and can only be booked by phone on 0818 919 090.

Who can get one

  • Irish residents with a valid full Irish driving licence
  • EU/EEA licence holders who live in Ireland

Not available to learner permit holders or non-EU/EEA licence holders. Your licence must have at least 3 months left to run.

1949 or 1926 convention?

The 1949 IDP is the common one and works in most countries. The 1926 version is needed for Brazil, Iraq, Nigeria and Somalia. Check with the embassy of the country you are visiting.

How to apply

  1. Call 0818 919 090 to book a centre appointment. Online booking is not available for IDPs.
  2. Fill in the IDP application form before the appointment, except parts 5 and 6.
  3. Bring: your valid Irish or EU/EEA licence, one passport-sized photo, the form, and €15 by card.
  4. Proof of address is needed only if the address on your licence is out of date, or you hold an EU/EEA licence. The NDLS page says the bill must be from the last 6 months in one place and 3 months in another, so bring one from the last 3 months.

Rules worth knowing

  • Valid 12 months, or until your licence expires if that is sooner.
  • It cannot be forward-dated more than 3 months.
  • One per licence per year. A lost IDP needs a Garda report to be replaced.
  • Not issued if you have 12 or more penalty points or a driving ban in force.
  • Always carry your actual licence too. The IDP is only a translation.
  • IDPs issued by the AA stay valid until they expire.

Where to go

Popular centres: Santry, Leopardstown, Citywest, Clarehall, Cork City, Galway, Limerick, Waterford, Kilkenny, Athlone, Sligo, Letterkenny, Drogheda, Tralee. All 34 centres.

Frequently asked questions

How much is an International Driving Permit in Ireland?

€15, paid by card at the NDLS appointment.

Where do I get an International Driving Permit in Ireland?

At an NDLS centre, by appointment booked on 0818 919 090.

How long is an IDP valid?

One year from issue, or until your driving licence expires if sooner.

Can a learner get an International Driving Permit?

No. You need a full Irish or EU/EEA licence.

Official source: www.ndls.ie/licensed-driver/international-driver-permit.html. Fees and rules checked 2 October 2026. If anything differs, the NDLS website takes priority.