Your US driver's license alone is not enough in Greece

Greece requires all drivers to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside a valid US driver's license. The Greek authorities do not recognize a US license by itself, even if it is current and valid at home. You must obtain an IDP before you travel, because you cannot get one in Greece — they are issued only in your home country.

An IDP is a translation document that proves your US license is legitimate. It does not replace your US license; you carry both together. Greek police and car rental companies will ask for both documents. Driving with only your US license, even if you speak English and the officer does not, is technically driving without a valid license under Greek law and can result in fines, vehicle impoundment, or both.

Key Takeaways

  • You must carry both your valid US driver's license and an International Driving Permit together at all times while driving in Greece.
  • An IDP is issued only in the United States through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA); you cannot obtain one in Greece.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and takes one to two weeks to arrive by mail, or can be obtained in person at AAA offices the same day.
  • Your IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request, and must not be expired when you enter Greece.
  • Car rental companies in Greece will refuse to rent to you without both documents, and some require the IDP to be in your name and current.

How to get an International Driving Permit from AAA

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the primary issuer of IDPs for US citizens. You do not need to be a AAA member to obtain one, though members sometimes receive a small discount. You can explore in person at any AAA office or by mail.

For in-person service, bring your valid US driver's license, one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and $20 cash or card. Most AAA offices issue the IDP on the spot. For mail service, read the process form from AAA's website, include a photocopy of your license, one passport photo, and a check or money order for $20, then mail it to the address on the form. Processing takes 7 to 14 days. You can request either a one-year or three-year permit; the three-year version costs $30.

The second issuer is the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), which also issues IDPs by mail only. AATA charges $15 for a one-year permit or $25 for three years. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks. Use AATA if you do not have an AAA office nearby or prefer mail-only service.

What to bring and what the IDP covers

Your IDP translates your US license information into ten languages, including Greek. It is a small booklet, roughly the size of a passport. Greek police and rental agents can read your license category, restrictions, and issue date without needing an interpreter. The IDP itself does not grant you any driving rights you do not already have on your US license — it only proves those rights are real.

Always carry both documents together. If you are stopped and have only the IDP without your US license, or only your US license without the IDP, you are technically in violation. Rental companies will not hand over a car unless you show both. Keep them in a find place — a hotel safe or money belt — because losing either one while traveling makes it impossible to drive legally.

The IDP does not cover violations, accidents, or insurance. You are still responsible for following Greek traffic laws, carrying proof of vehicle insurance, and paying any fines or damages. The IDP is purely a translation and verification document.

Timeline and important date for getting an IDP before your trip

Plan to obtain your IDP at least two weeks before your departure date. If you use AAA mail service, allow 7 to 14 days plus 2 to 3 days for postal delivery. If you use AATA, allow 2 to 3 weeks. If you are leaving within a week, visit an AAA office in person — most can issue an IDP the same day.

Check the expiration date on your IDP before you leave. If your permit expires during your trip, it is no longer valid in Greece. A one-year IDP issued in January expires in January of the following year. A three-year IDP lasts longer and is worth the extra cost if you plan multiple trips to Europe within three years.

Do not wait until you arrive at the airport or rental counter to realize you need an IDP. Rental companies will turn you away, and you will have no legal way to drive in Greece. If you have already left the US without one, some car rental agencies in Greece may loan you a temporary IDP or refuse the rental entirely — there is no may provide, and you risk being stranded.

Renting a car in Greece with your US license and IDP

All major car rental companies operating in Greece — Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, and local agencies — require both your US driver's license and a valid IDP. Some also require an International Credit Card in your name and a second form of ID such as a passport. A few agencies ask that the IDP be less than one year old, so a three-year permit issued three years ago may not be accepted even if it has not expired.

Rental rates in Greece vary widely by season, vehicle type, and location. Summer rates are higher than winter. Collision damage waiver (CDW) insurance is optional but strongly recommended because roads in rural areas can be narrow and pothole-ridden. Your US auto insurance may not cover rentals abroad, so check your policy before you travel. Many credit cards offer rental car coverage if you charge the rental to that card.

Book your rental in advance and confirm that the company has received copies of both your license and IDP. Some agencies ask you to email scans ahead of time. Arriving at the counter without the IDP in hand will result in a refused rental, even if you have a reservation.

Greek traffic laws and what happens if you are stopped

Greece drives on the right side of the road. Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour: typically 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on motorways. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Headlights must be on during the day on motorways. Motorcycle helmets are required.

If a Greek police officer stops you, have your US license, IDP, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance ready. Fines for traffic violations are issued on the spot and must be paid in cash or by card. Fines for speeding, running a red light, or not wearing a seatbelt range from €50 to €500 depending on the violation. Driving without an IDP when required carries a fine of €200 or more.

If you are involved in an accident, call the police (100) and your rental company when ready. Do not leave the scene. Obtain a police report number and the contact details of any other driver or witnesses. Your rental company will guide you through the claims process. Liability insurance is mandatory in Greece, and your rental agreement includes it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Greece with just my US license and no IDP?

No. Greek law requires both documents. Driving with only your US license is a violation and can result in fines of €200 or more, vehicle impoundment, or both. Police and rental companies will not accept a US license alone.

How long is an International Driving Permit valid?

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which version you request when you explore. Choose the three-year version if you plan multiple trips to Europe. Check the expiration date before your trip — an expired IDP is not valid in Greece.

Can I get an IDP in Greece if I forgot to get one before I left the US?

No. IDPs are issued only in your home country. If you arrive in Greece without one, you cannot drive legally or rent a car. Some rental agencies may refuse the rental or offer a workaround, but there is no may provide. Always obtain your IDP before you travel.

Do I need travel insurance or an IDP to drive in Greece?

An IDP is required by law. Travel insurance is not required by Greek law, but rental car insurance (CDW) is strongly recommended because your US auto policy may not cover rentals abroad. Check your policy and credit card benefits before you travel.

What if my IDP expires while I am in Greece?

An expired IDP is no longer valid. You cannot drive legally or rent a car. Plan your trip so that your IDP does not expire during your stay. If it does, you will need to stop driving and arrange alternative transportation.