Do I need an international licence to drive in Europe?

No. Within the European Union and the European Economic Area, the Italian licence is directly recognised. No international licence is needed for France, Germany, Spain, Greece, etc. Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein also accept the Italian licence. Always check for non-EU countries such as Turkey, Morocco, etc.

Can the international licence be renewed?

Yes. At the end of the validity period (3 years) you can apply for a new one following the same procedure. Bring the old expired international licence along with the standard documentation.

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International driving licence: how to apply in Italy

The international driving licence is an official translation of the Italian licence, recognised in all signatory countries of the 1968 Vienna Convention (over 90 countries worldwide). It does not replace the national licence: it must always be shown alongside it. It is mandatory in many non-EU countries (USA, Canada, Japan, Australia, many African and Asian countries) where the Italian licence alone is not recognised.

Authority

ACI — Automobile Club d'Italia

Time

20 min

Updated

May 2026

What you need

✓Valid Italian driving licence
✓Valid identity document
✓2 recent passport-size photos (white background)
✓Payment of approximately €10-15 (cost varies by issuing body)

Step-by-step procedure

Choose where to apply

The international driving licence can be applied for at: ACI (Automobile Club of Italy) — at all provincial offices; enabled Poste Italiane post offices; Civil Motorisation (MIT). ACI is usually the fastest option (immediate issue at many offices). The service does not require an appointment at many ACI offices.

Submit documentation and pay

Bring your original Italian licence (it is photocopied, not retained), an identity document, 2 passport photos and payment. The international licence is issued immediately in many cases (or within a few days by post). Check with the office if a specific application form is required (usually completed on the spot).

The standard ACI cost is approximately €10.20. Add any administrative fees.

Use the international licence correctly abroad

Always show the original Italian licence together with the international one: on its own it is not valid. The international licence issued in Italy is valid for 3 years (or until the Italian licence expires, if sooner). For the USA and Canada the version compliant with the 1968 Vienna Convention is required: Italy issues this type. Always check the rules of your destination country before travelling.

In some countries (e.g. Japan) the host country requires an additional sworn translation: check with the local consulate.

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ACI — Patente Internazionale

ACI — Automobile Club d'Italia

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Frequently asked questions

Responsible authority

Authority

ACI — Automobile Club d'Italia

Phone

803 116

Certified email

Website

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The information in this guide is for orientation only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Always verify on the official portal of the responsible authority.

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