Changes to overseas driving permit applications
From 1 October 2026, Service NSW will no longer issue overseas driving permits.
If you need a permit from this date, apply through NRMA. Allow enough time to receive your permit before you travel.
Introduction
If you hold an Australian driver licence, and you're travelling overseas, you can get a driving permit in case you need to drive when you're away. Driving permits are valid for 12 months, unless your driver licence expires first.
In NSW you can apply for your IDP:
- online
- at a Service NSW Centre or mobile service centre if you need it immediately.
Eligibility
To be eligible you must:
- be over 18 years of age
- hold a provisional (P1 or P2) or full (unrestricted) Australian driver licence – interim licences are not acceptable.
Note: Learner drivers are not eligible.
What you need
To apply online you'll need:
- your intended travel dates
- a clear and readable scan of the front and back of your photo licence card
- a passport size photo that must meet photo requirements (maximum size 5MB, JPEG, JPG or PNG).
- your credit card for the IDP fee (price is subject to change).
If needed immediately
Visit a service centre or mobile service centre and a staff member will guide you through the process.
Please take:
- your current driver licence (card or digital licence accepted)
- a passport size photo taken no more than 6 months ago. This photo will be affixed to your IDP.
How to apply
Apply online
- Select the 'Apply online' button.
- You'll be taken to the NRMA website.
- Ensure that your state is selected, and select 'Apply now'.
- Fill in the required details, upload the necessary documents and make your payment.
- Your IDP will be posted to you. It should be sent within 3 days of approval.
In person at a service centre
- When you visit make sure you have the required documents.
- Tell a staff member that you wish to apply for an IDP. They will set you up at a kiosk to complete the online form.
- You need to present your driver licence, your photo and your payment at a counter.
- Receive your IDP over the counter.
More information
- The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) is the only authorised distributor for IDPs in Australia. State and territory motoring clubs process them on behalf of the AAA. In NSW the motoring club is the NRMA.
- You can check on the AAA website for the countries where you need an IDP.
- IDPs are United Nations sanctioned documents and will always have "Convention on International Road Traffic of 19 September, 1949" on their cover.
- Ensure your IDP allows you to drive or ride the vehicles you intend to use. Some insurance policies will not cover you if you have an accident using a vehicle you're not licensed to drive.
- If you have any queries about the IDP call the NRMA in business hours, on 1300 053 052, and select option 1.
- Note: As many countries require you to have an IDP in addition to your Australian-issued driver licence photocard, always carry both with you when driving or riding overseas (as per the conditions of the IDP).
Introduction
If you hold an Australian driver licence, and you're intending to travel overseas, it's advisable to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in case you need to drive when you're away.
Many countries require you to have an IDP in addition to your Australian state or territory driver licence. Always carry both with you when driving or riding overseas.
Note: Check which countries require an IDP.
Eligibility
To be eligible you must:
- be over 18 years of age
- hold a provisional (P1 or P2) or full (unrestricted) Australian driver licence – interim licences are not acceptable.
Note: Learner drivers are not eligible.
What you need
- your current driver licence (card or digital licence accepted)
- a passport size photo (pre-cut to single photo) and taken no more than 6 months ago. This photo will be affixed to your IDP.
- your payment (price is subject to change).
How to get your IDP
- Select the 'Start your application' button.
Note: You must complete your application within 2 business days. After that, your information will be lost, and you'll need to start again. - Enter the required details.
- Ask a staff member to print your completed form.
- Get a ticket for the counter.
- When called to a counter, present:
- the printed form
- your driver licence
- your photo
- your payment.
More information
- If there is no urgency you can apply online and the IDP will be posted to you in 5 to 7 days.
- An IDP is sometimes referred to as an international driving licence and is valid for 12 months.
- Ensure your IDP allows you to drive or ride the vehicles you intend to use. Some insurance policies will not cover you if you have an accident using a vehicle you're not licensed to drive.
- Note: As many countries require you to have an IDP in addition to your Australian-issued driver licence photocard, always carry both with you when driving or riding overseas (as per the conditions of the IDP).