International Driving Permit in Laos

Get an easy International Driver's License for your travel in Laos

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Fast & Easy Process
Valid from 1 to 3 years
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Translated in 70 Languages
Recognized in over 150 countries
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Where to get an International Driving Permit in Laos?

Obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Laos is straightforward if you hold a valid Laos national driver's license. For those planning a visit to Laos, it is advisable to contact the relevant authority in your home country to secure an IDP before departure. However, if you are already traveling and do not possess the IDP, you may opt to have your national driver's license translated online. This method offers a quicker, more convenient, and efficient way to ensure you can legally drive during your travels.

The International Driving Permit is a translation of the national driving license into many languages. The first ID cards appeared in 1926, after the Paris International Convention relative to Motor Traffic. The International Driving Permit was also influenced by two other conventions in 1949 and 1968. The International Driving Permit is the same as the International Driving License.

We remind you that the IDP works only with a valid national license.

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How to obtain an International Driving Permit in Laos online?

Simply and quickly

To get the International Driving Permit (IDP), you should apply and then fill out the form for which you need to give us:

1. A photo of your valid domestic driving license
2. Your personal data
3. A photo of yourself
4. Your signature (scan or photo it)

Our services will not cost you a fortune.
Get an International Driving Permit (IDP) now and travel easily.

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How to get an International Driving Permit in Laos?

According to the Vienna Convention of 1968, International Driving Permits (IDPs) are authorized to be issued by national governments or designated organizations. In most countries, this function is carried out by automobile associations affiliated with the AIT/FIA, the police, or other authorized entities. To obtain an International Driving Permit in Laos, you must possess a local license and apply to the relevant authorities here (please notify us if the link is not working). The cost and processing time for an IDP vary by country.

If you hold a national license not issued in Laos, you must verify if your license permits you to drive and if you require an IDP. If an IDP is necessary, the only option is to order a translation of your driver's license, available either via delivery or as an electronic version (confirm with the rental car company if an electronic version is acceptable), for example, through our services.

For U.S. citizens with only a U.S. driver's license, you can obtain an IDP from AAA, but it must be done before traveling to Laos!

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FAQ

How to get an International Driving Permit in Laos?

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If you have a local license and want to travel, contact a competent organization. If you are an American and plan to travel in advance, you can get an IDP from AAA. In other cases, you can have your driver's license translated into the required languages so that you can travel with your national license and its translation.

How to apply for International Driving Permit?

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Our application process is fast and simple. Complete the IDP application form, attach a copy of your valid driver's license, your handwritten signature and a color ID photo, and make the payment. You can apply for an IDP online here.

Do I need an International Driving Permit for Laos?

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Laos has not unified its driving license in accordance with the 1968 Vienna Convention. Drivers from other countries need an International Driving License, unless Laos and the country that issued your license have an additional agreement on the recognition of driving licenses.

Can I drive in Laos with a US license?

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You can only drive in Laos with your driver's license if you have a valid International Driving Permit (IDP). Additional information for traveling U.S. citizens can be found on the government website.

Сan an American drive in Laos?

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To drive an American in Laos, you must have an International Driving Permit (IDP). Additional information for traveling U.S. citizens can be found on the government website.

What is the International Driver's Document?

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Our IDD is ideal for travelers visiting multilingual destinations. No test is required, and the IDD is valid for up to three years. This document is used in conjunction with, but does not replace, your valid national license; it is a translation of your driver’s license in three formats.

Can I rent a car with this document?

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Usually, yes. However, as requirements vary from region to region, you are advised to inquire directly with car rental companies.

Can I purchase car insurance with the IDD?

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Usually, yes. However, as requirements vary from region to region, you are advised to inquire directly with local insurances companies.

What do you need to know to drive in Laos?

The research was last conducted in February 2025, and the information is subject to change over time. You may copy this information only if you provide a link back to this page.

Participation in the 1949 and/or 1968 United Nations Conventions on Road Traffic
- Laos is not listed in the Geneva, 19 September 1949 or in the Vienna, 8 November 1968 Conventions. [1] [2]
Recognition of the International Driving Permit (IDP)

Despite not being a signatory to the aforementioned conventions, Laos recognizes International Driving Permits (IDPs) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. These IDPs are valid for a period of one year from the date of issue. [3] [4]
Duration of driving with a foreign license (+ IDP) if resident or non-resident
- Non-residents:
  - Foreign visitors can drive in Laos if they possess both a valid driver's license from their home country and an IDP, normally for 1 year, but this can be limited by visa duration. [5] [6]
  - According to the Transport's Traffic Management Division, the government has signed bilateral agreements with Thailand, Vietnam, China, and Cambodia that allow drivers from those countries to drive freely in Laos as long as their licenses are in English or accompanied with an official translation into English. The same applies for Lao people driving in those countries. [5]
  - It is not possible to use a national driving license to drive in Laos. Some policemen may wave you through if showing a national (non-Lao) driving license, but this is fully up to the discretion of the policemen. By Lao law, it is not possible to use the national (non-Lao) driving license. Also important to know is that some Lao insurance companies will not cover claims in case the foreign driver uses a national (non-Lao) driving license. [5]
- Residents:
  - Information on the duration for residents is not available from official sources. However, it is advised that individuals staying longer than three months are required to obtain a Lao driver's license. [5] [6]