Do You Need an International Driver’s License in Italy?

by IDL Support March 9, 2025

Planning a road trip through Italy? Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore the country’s stunning landscapes, from the rolling hills of Tuscany to the dramatic coastal roads of the Amalfi Coast. However, before you hit the road, it’s crucial to understand Italy’s driving regulations, including whether you need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about driving in Italy with a foreign license, including:

International Driver’s License requirements for different countries
Driving rules and regulations
Must-visit tourist spots for a scenic road trip
Tips for driving safely
Emergency numbers and what to do in case of an accident

Let’s dive in!

Do You Need an International Driver’s License in Italy?

Who Needs an International Driving Permit?

If you are a non-EU visitor and plan to drive in Italy, you may need an International Driving Permit in addition to your national driver’s license.

Here’s who needs an International License:

U.S. and Canadian Drivers: Yes, an International Driving Permit is required.
UK Drivers: No International Driver’s Document is needed for stays under 6 months.
EU/EEA License Holders: No International Driving License is required.
Australian, New Zealand, and Other Non-EU Travelers: Yes, an International Permit is required.

Driving in Italy: Rules and Regulations

Basic Driving Rules

Driving Side: Italians drive on the right side of the road.
Minimum Driving Age: 18 years old.
Seatbelt Law: Mandatory for all passengers.
Mobile Phone Use: Only allowed with hands-free devices.
Drunk Driving Limits: 0.05% BAC limit; 0.00% for drivers with less than three years of experience.

Speed Limits

Urban Areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
Non-Urban Roads: 90 km/h (56 mph)
Highways (Autostrada): 130 km/h (81 mph)
Rain or Fog Conditions: Reduced speed limits apply

Road Signs & Traffic Zones

ZTL Zones (Limited Traffic Zones): Many Italian cities have restricted zones where non-residents cannot drive. Avoid heavy fines by checking ZTL maps before driving into cities.
Toll Roads (Autostrade): Most highways require toll payments. You can pay with cash, credit card, or the Telepass system.

Best Tourist Spots to Visit by Car in Italy

Italy is a dream destination for road-trippers, offering an incredible mix of stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Whether you're winding through picturesque countryside roads, hugging dramatic coastal cliffs, or exploring charming villages, having a car allows you to travel at your own pace and uncover hidden gems along the way. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the breathtaking coastline of the Amalfi Coast, here are some of the best road trip destinations in Italy that you shouldn't miss.

1. Tuscany Road Trip

Best for: Rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval villages.
Top stops: Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, Val d'Orcia.
Must-do: Wine tasting in Chianti.

Tuscany is one of the most iconic regions in Italy, known for its breathtaking landscapes, world-famous wines, and charming medieval towns. A road trip through Tuscany offers travelers the chance to experience a perfect blend of art, culture, and natural beauty.

Start your journey in Florence, the capital of Tuscany and the birthplace of the Renaissance. Spend a day or two exploring its artistic treasures, such as the Uffizi Gallery, Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell'Accademia, and the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Cross the famous Ponte Vecchio before heading into the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside.

From Florence, drive south to Siena, a city that feels frozen in time. Walk through the Piazza del Campo, where the famous Palio horse race takes place twice a year. Don’t miss the chance to visit Siena Cathedral, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture.

Next, make a stop in San Gimignano, a small hilltop town known for its medieval towers and stunning views. Stroll through its charming streets, sample some of the best gelato in Italy, and admire the town’s 14 remaining towers, which date back to the Middle Ages.

For a truly scenic experience, continue your journey to Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with golden wheat fields, winding roads lined with cypress trees, and picturesque vineyards. This region is home to some of the best wine in Italy, so a wine-tasting tour in Chianti is an absolute must.

2. Amalfi Coast Drive

Best for: Stunning coastal views and charming towns.
Top stops: Positano, Amalfi, Ravello.
Must-do: Sunset drive along the winding SS163 road.

One of the most spectacular road trips in the world, the Amalfi Coast offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, charming seaside towns, and dramatic cliffs that plunge into the sea. The SS163 road, also known as the Amalfi Drive, is a narrow, winding route that hugs the coastline, providing unforgettable panoramas at every turn.

Start your journey in Positano, a postcard-perfect town with pastel-colored houses cascading down the cliffs. Walk along its narrow streets, browse local boutiques, and relax on Spiaggia Grande, the town’s main beach.

Continue to Amalfi, the namesake of the coast, where you can visit the stunning Amalfi Cathedral and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic waterfront. Be sure to try a glass of limoncello, a famous lemon liqueur produced in this region.

For the best panoramic views, drive up to Ravello, a peaceful hilltop town known for its breathtaking gardens and luxurious villas. Visit Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, where you can admire some of the most spectacular coastal views in Italy.

For an unforgettable experience, time your drive along the SS163 road just before sunset, when the sky is painted with hues of pink and orange, creating a magical atmosphere along the coast.

3. Lake Como & Northern Lakes

Best for: Luxury, tranquility, and breathtaking landscapes.
Top stops: Bellagio, Varenna, Como.
Must-do: Boat tour of Lake Como.

If you’re looking for a relaxing road trip with stunning alpine scenery and elegant lakeside villages, Lake Como and the Northern Lakes region are the perfect destinations.

Start your journey in Como, the main town on Lake Como, where you can take a scenic funicular ride up to Brunate for panoramic views of the lake. Stroll along the waterfront and visit Villa Olmo, a stunning neoclassical mansion surrounded by gardens.

From Como, drive to Bellagio, often referred to as the “Pearl of Lake Como.” This charming town is known for its elegant villas, cobblestone streets, and breathtaking lake views. Take a boat tour across the lake to explore its picturesque surroundings.

Another must-visit stop is Varenna, a peaceful village with colorful houses lining the waterfront. Visit the Castello di Vezio, an ancient castle offering one of the best viewpoints of the lake.

For those who want to extend their trip, consider visiting Lake Maggiore and Lake Garda, both of which offer stunning landscapes, beautiful gardens, and charming lakeside towns.

4. Dolomites Scenic Drive

Best for: Mountain lovers and adventure seekers.
Top stops: Cortina d’Ampezzo, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Val Gardena.
Must-do: Hiking and panoramic cable car rides.

The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer one of the most spectacular mountain road trips in Europe. If you love dramatic peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes, this is the perfect road trip for you.

Begin your journey in Cortina d’Ampezzo, a famous ski resort town surrounded by majestic mountains. In the summer, it’s a great base for hiking and exploring the region.

One of the highlights of this road trip is a visit to Tre Cime di Lavaredo, a stunning three-peaked mountain range that offers some of the best hiking trails in Italy.

Continue to Val Gardena, where you can take a cable car up to Seceda, a mountain ridge with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The region is perfect for hiking, photography, and enjoying traditional South Tyrolean cuisine.

5. Sicily & Sardinia Road Trips

Best for: Unique island culture and stunning coastal roads.
Top stops: Palermo, Taormina, Cagliari, Costa Smeralda.
Must-do: Explore ancient ruins and hidden beaches.

For those who love island adventures, a road trip in Sicily or Sardinia is a must.

In Sicily, start in Palermo, a city full of history, colorful markets, and stunning architecture. Visit the Norman Palace, Cappella Palatina, and try the delicious street food. Drive to Taormina, a picturesque town with a Greek amphitheater offering stunning views of Mount Etna. Don’t miss a visit to the ancient ruins of Agrigento and the beautiful beaches of San Vito Lo Capo.

In Sardinia, drive along the Costa Smeralda, famous for its turquoise waters and luxury resorts. Visit Cagliari, the island’s capital, where you can explore the historic Castello district and relax on Poetto Beach. For adventure seekers, the Golfo di Orosei offers stunning sea caves and secluded beaches.

Tips for Driving Safely in Italy

Rent the Right Car: Choose a compact car for narrow streets and easier parking.
Use GPS & Offline Maps: Google Maps and Waze are helpful, but keep an offline version.
Avoid Driving in Big Cities: Park outside and use public transport in Rome, Milan, and Florence.
Understand Italian Driving Culture: Expect fast drivers and be cautious at roundabouts.
Watch Out for ZTL Zones: Always check city maps to avoid fines.
Carry Cash for Tolls: Some toll booths don’t accept foreign credit cards.
Refuel Before Highways: Gas prices are lower at local stations than on the autostrada.

Emergency Numbers & What to Do in Case of an Accident

Emergency Contacts in Italy

General Emergency (European Emergency Number): 112
Police Assistance: 113
Medical Emergency: 118
Fire Department: 115
Roadside Assistance (ACI): 803 116

What to Do in Case of an Accident

Ensure Safety: Turn on hazard lights and place a warning triangle.
Call Emergency Services: Dial 112 if injuries are involved.
Exchange Information: Share license, insurance, and rental details.
Contact Your Rental Company: Follow their accident procedure.
File a Police Report: Required for major accidents or disputes.

How to Obtain an IDL

Applying for an International Driver's License (IDL) is a straightforward process that allows you to legally drive in foreign countries. Here's how you can obtain one:

Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining an International Driver's License. Requirements may but the most important one is that you must have your national or local driver's license issued by your county or state of origin, and it should be valid.
Complete Application: Obtain the necessary application form from following the next link: https://www.international-license.com/pages/apply-now
Pay Fees: Pay the required fees for processing your IDL application. Fees may vary depending on the issuing authority and processing time.
Submit Application: Submit your completed application form along with any supporting documents following their specific instructions.
Receive IDL: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your International Driver's License.

Remember to carry both your international driving permit and your original driver's license whenever you're behind the wheel. Double-check that your details match those on your valid driver's license to avoid any discrepancies. Once you have completed the application form and gathered all the necessary documents, submit them to the licensing authority along with any applicable fees.

APPLY HERE!

Cost of an International Driver's License

The costs of obtaining an International Driver's License are the following:

1 YEAR VALIDITY: USD 39,99
2 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 54,99
3 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 69,99

USA SHIPPING
USPS 6-10 DAYS: FREE
EXPRESS 3-4 DAYS : USD 15
OVERNIGHT 2-3 DAYS: USD 35

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
EXPRESS INTERNATIONAL 4-8 DAYS : USD 29.99

As of 2025

Before applying for an IDL, it's essential to check the fee schedule on the official website https://www.international-license.com/pages/pricing-for-the-international-drivers-document

Final Thoughts & Recommendations

Driving in Italy is an incredible experience, allowing you to explore its picturesque landscapes, historic towns, and stunning coastlines at your own pace. However, understanding the rules and obtaining an International Driving Permit (if required) will help ensure a smooth journey.

Key Takeaways:

International Driving Document is required for U.S., Canadian, Australian, and non-EU travelers.
Familiarize yourself with Italian driving rules (ZTL zones, speed limits, toll roads).
Plan scenic road trips in Tuscany, Amalfi Coast, and the Dolomites.
Follow safety tips to navigate Italian roads confidently.
Save emergency numbers in case of accidents or breakdowns.

For the latest official driving regulations, check the Italian Ministry of Transport. Safe travels, and enjoy your Italian road trip!