Are you planning to drive overseas during your next trip? It's essential to know how to apply for international driving license Singapore.

Also known as an International Driving Permit (IDP), this document is an official translation of your Singapore driving licence.

It allows you to drive legally in many foreign countries.

Whether travelling for business or leisure, having an IDP can help avoid complications with local authorities and car rental companies.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to apply for an IDP, where it's accepted, what you need, and why it matters.

We’ll also share helpful tips for driving abroad and answer common questions about using your Singapore driving licence for overseas use.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is an official document that translates your Singapore driving licence into multiple languages.

It does not replace your Singapore licence but supplements it when driving in a foreign country.

The IDP is recognised in over 150 countries and is issued under the 1949 United Nations Convention on Road Traffic.

This includes your details, photograph and driving entitlements, all translated into 12 languages.

By presenting a Singapore driving licence and IDP, you can avoid communication issues with local traffic police, rental agencies, or border officials.

You need an international driving license in Singapore if you're driving in countries where English isn't widely spoken or an IDP is required.

This includes many popular travel destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

The IDP is especially important for:

Not all countries require an IDP, but having one offers comfort and avoids unnecessary hassles.

Even in countries where it's not mandatory, some rental car companies still require it.

You can apply for an IDP through the Automobile Association of Singapore (AAS), which is the authorised body to issue this document.

This can be done either online or in person.

1. If you need the IDP urgently, you can choose to walk in and apply directly at one of the AAS service locations, such as: AA Centre

Besides the AAS, there are other official channels where to get IDP in Singapore:

Table: Application method comparison

To complete your IDP application, prepare the following:

Make sure the photo is taken within the last 6 months.

Photos that don’t meet the specifications may lead to rejection or delay.

It’s important to note that provisional licence holders are not eligible to apply for an IDP.

The application fee for an international driving licence in Singapore is a modest SG$20.

The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue.

It's non-renewable, meaning that once it expires, you'll need to apply for a new one with updated documents and a photograph.

If you plan to drive abroad frequently, make sure to renew your IDP annually.

Always double-check the specific regulations of your destination country, as some places have stricter entry requirements for foreign drivers.

For students or temporary residents, an IDP can be used for up to 6 months in some countries.

After which, you may need to convert to a local driving licence depending on local laws.

Your Singapore driving licence for overseas use is accepted in many countries if accompanied by an IDP, such as:

Driving without an IDP in these countries can result in fines or being denied a rental car.

However, there are countries where an IDP is not required for short-term visits.

Your valid Singapore driving licence alone is sufficient in places such as:

Otherwise, certain countries do not recognise IDPs at all, like China, Cambodia, and Myanmar.

In such cases, you may need to apply for a local driving permit in advance or consider alternative transport options.

Always check the destination country's regulations before you travel, as policies may change.

For foreigners visiting Singapore, you can drive for up to 12 months with a valid foreign licence (in English) or with an IDP.

However, for long-term residents, your foreign licence must be converted to a Singapore driving licence by passing the Basic Theory Test (BTT).

This is how you can do it:

Driving in a foreign country can be exciting, but it's important to be well-prepared.

Here are some essential tips to help ensure a smooth experience:

Any Singaporean citizen or resident holding a valid non-provisional Singapore driving licence.

If you have a valid Singapore licence, you do not need an IDP for Malaysia, but you may carry one for added assurance.

You’ll need to reapply for a new IDP once back in Singapore.

There is currently no overseas reissue option.

Once your international driving license is sorted, it's time to plan the rest of your journey.

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Whether you’re heading to France, Japan or Australia, having your IDP and a smooth itinerary will make all the difference.

Getting your international driving license in Singapore is a smart move for anyone planning to drive abroad.

It’s affordable, easy to apply for, and saves you the stress of dealing with translation or legal issues on the road.

Combine that with a valid Singapore driving licence and good travel insurance, and you’ll be ready to explore the world with confidence.