International driving permit or sworn translation?
An international driving permit and a sworn translation are different documents. Check what your destination…
Start with your licence and destination
Check which country issued your driving licence, where you plan to drive and whether you are visiting or moving there. The rules for a temporary stay can differ from those for residents. If you are hiring a vehicle, also check the hire company’s document requirements.
This guide focuses on a Dutch driving licence used abroad. Use the official destination guidance to establish whether your valid licence is sufficient or whether an additional document or local licence is needed.
What an international driving permit does
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a translation of your Dutch driving licence into several languages. It is only valid in combination with your Dutch driving licence. It is not a replacement for the original licence.
NetherlandsWorldwide links to information about the countries that require an IDP, the different types and how to obtain one. Check the applicable type for your destination before applying.
When a sworn translation may be requested
A sworn driving licence translation is prepared by a sworn translator for the required language. Ask the organisation requesting it which language, certification and format it accepts.
A sworn translation should not be treated as interchangeable with an IDP. If an IDP or a local licence is required, a translation alone does not meet that requirement. For the terminology, see our guide to sworn and certified translations.
Check the details before ordering
Ask whether you need to present the original licence with the translation, whether a particular translator or authority must prepare it and whether paper or digital delivery is required. Keep the written instructions with your request.
A translation does not renew or extend a driving licence. Check the original licence’s expiry date and leave time for any other required application or document delivery.
Arrange the translation with Urgent Vertalen
If a sworn translation is required, our driving licence translation service can help arrange the translation work. Agree which licence pages are needed before sending a legible copy for a quote.
Request your no-obligation quote with the source and target languages, intended use, recipient’s instructions and deadline. We will confirm the translation service, price and delivery time before work starts.
Official driving licence guidance
Consult NetherlandsWorldwide’s explanation of international driving permits and guidance on using a Dutch driving licence abroad. The RDW information about Dutch driving licences abroad (in Dutch) links to the applicable guidance.
