International driving permits and certificates

When driving a vehicle in certain foreign countries, having only national vehicle documents and a driving licence may not be sufficient. According to international agreements and conventions between countries, it may be necessary to carry specific international certificates for the vehicle or an international driving permit.

International certificates for motor vehicles, motorcycles, and trailers confirm that the vehicle complies with regulations and allow it to be used in countries where such documents are required. These certificates are issued by the competent offices of the Department for land transport after the presentation of national vehicle registration documents. Essentially, they serve as an internationally recognized confirmation of the information contained in national documents.

Similarly, the international driving permit is a document that accompanies the national driving licence and allows a person to drive in foreign countries where the national licence alone may not be sufficient or directly recognized. This permit is also issued by the competent offices upon presentation of a valid driving licence.

It is important to understand that these documents do not replace national ones but complement them. When driving abroad, the driver must carry both national and international documents when required. The need for such documents depends on the destination country and the applicable international agreements.