International Driving Permit for Nepal: What You Need

If you plan to drive yourself in Nepal, sort out your paperwork before you fly. The International Driving Permit, or IDP, is the document visitors most often forget, and it cannot be arranged once you have left home.

Do you need an IDP?

Yes. Foreign visitors who want to self-drive need a valid driving licence from their home country together with an International Driving Permit. The IDP is a translation of your licence in a standard format; it is not valid on its own, so always carry both.

Where to get one

An IDP is issued in the country that issued your driving licence, usually by a national motoring association or licensing authority. The process is often quick, but allow a few weeks in case of delays. Check that the permit covers the vehicle categories you plan to drive and is valid for your whole trip.

What to carry in the car

• Your home driving licence
• Your International Driving Permit
• Your passport, or a copy with your visa page
• The vehicle documents we hand over at pickup

Police checkpoints

Checkpoints are common on highways and at the edges of cities. Officers may ask to see your licence, IDP and the vehicle papers. Stay polite, keep your documents together in one place, and you will usually be on your way in a minute.

No IDP? You can still travel by car

If you arrive without an IDP, you can still enjoy a road trip by hiring a car with a local driver. Many visitors find this more relaxing anyway on long highway days.