International Driving Permit assistance
Drive abroad with the right paperwork.
Planning to drive on your trip? We help you understand whether you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) and guide you through applying with the authorised issuer.
The essentials
What an International Driving Permit is — and isn’t
A translation of your licence
An IDP is an official translation of your national driving licence, recognised under United Nations road-traffic conventions.
Carried with your licence
It does not replace your licence. When you drive abroad, you carry both documents together.
Issued where your licence was
You apply in the country that issued your national licence, through an authorised organisation, before you travel.
Source: the AIT/FIA directory of authorised IDP issuers, internationaldrivingpermit.org. Beware of unofficial websites selling “international licences”.
If your licence is Saudi
Permits in Saudi Arabia are issued by SATA
The Saudi Automobile and Touring Association (SATA), an FIA member, issues International Driving Permits in the Kingdom. Star Wings Travel is not an issuing authority. According to SATA’s published guidance:
- Applicants need a valid Saudi driving licence, a valid National ID or Iqama, and no pending traffic violations.
- Documents requested include a copy of your passport information page, a copy of your driving licence and a personal photo.
- An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and cannot be extended.
- Applications can be made online or at SATA offices.
Source: sataclub.com.sa/en/idp, checked September 2026. Requirements can change — always confirm with SATA.
How we can help
Clear guidance before you apply
Tell us your trip
Where you’ll drive, when you travel and which country issued your licence.
Check what applies
We help you check whether your destinations expect an IDP and what the issuer asks for.
Prepare the application
We talk you through the documents and the application. Ask us what our assistance includes and any fees.
Drive with both documents
Carry your IDP together with your national licence whenever you drive abroad.
Worth checking before you drive
Rules differ by country, and car-rental companies can set their own requirements — such as minimum age, how long you have held your licence, or which documents they accept. Check with your rental provider and the destination’s official guidance, and never send ID or licence scans through this website’s forms.
Permit enquiry
Enquire about permit assistance
A few details are enough for initial guidance. Please don’t include ID, passport or licence numbers — we’ll explain how to share documents safely if you go ahead.
Speak to an expert
Talk it through with a travel consultant.
Call, email or send a request — whichever suits you. We’ll come back with options and explain them clearly.
Office hours
- Sunday – Thursday
- 10:00 – 20:00
- Friday
- 10:00 – 13:00
Office hours, Jeddah time (GMT+3). For other days, please call ahead or send an enquiry.