Do You Need an IDP to Drive in Iceland?
Yes, an International Driving Permit for Iceland is highly recommended and often required by car rental companies operating in Iceland. While Iceland recognizes your home country's driver's license as valid, Icelandic rental agencies almost universally require an IDP for Iceland as an additional form of identification. This protects both you and the rental company by providing an official translation of your driving credentials.
Police may also request your IDP for Iceland during traffic stops or vehicle inspections. Having this document alongside your original driver's license demonstrates you are a legitimate, prepared driver aware of local regulations. Both digital and physical IDPs are accepted in Iceland, giving you flexibility in how you obtain and carry your permit.
How to Get Your IDP for Iceland
Getting an International Driving Permit for Iceland through World Drive Office is straightforward and takes just minutes. Our online application process is designed for travelers, with no complicated procedures or delays.
- Apply online: Fill out the form at our application page with your personal information and driving details
- Upload documents: Submit a clear photo of your driver's license, a passport-style photo, and your digital signature
- Choose your plan: Select between our digital IDP for Iceland at $39 (instant delivery) or physical permit at $69 (FedEx delivery within 3-5 business days)
- Receive your IDP: Digital permits are sent immediately to your email, while physical permits arrive at your address ready to use
Driving Rules in Iceland
The Basics
Iceland drives on the RIGHT side of the road. Speed limits in Reykjavík and urban areas are typically 50 km/h (31 mph), while highway speeds reach 90 km/h (56 mph) on main routes and 80 km/h (50 mph) on secondary roads. Gravel roads and rural areas usually have limits of 80 km/h or less. The legal alcohol limit for driving is 0.04%, one of Europe's strictest standards. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and children under 6 years must use appropriate car seats. Headlights must be on at all times, even during daylight hours. Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless using a hands-free system.
What to Carry
- Your IDP for Iceland, required alongside your original driver's license at all times
- Original driver's license from your home country, as your IDP is a translation document, not a replacement
- Passport for identification and border crossings
- Vehicle registration if you own the car, or rental agreement if you're renting
- Insurance documents proving your vehicle has third-party liability coverage at minimum
- Proof of payment of the road tax if your rental vehicle requires one
Renting a Car in Iceland
Major car rental companies in Iceland include Hertz, Budget, Avis, Enterprise, and local operators like Hertz Iceland and Europcar. Most require renters to be at least 21 years old, with drivers under 25 often facing additional insurance fees. When you arrive in Reykjavík or at Keflavík International Airport, rental desks are readily available. All companies require a valid driver's license and International Driving Permit for Iceland at pickup, along with a credit card for the deposit and insurance.
Rental deposits typically range from $500 to $2,500 USD depending on vehicle type and insurance coverage. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive insurance in Iceland's challenging weather conditions, where dust storms, sudden snow, and unpredictable road conditions are common. When you present your IDP for Iceland at the rental counter alongside your original license, you're showing complete compliance with local requirements, which can sometimes help with negotiating better rates or insurance terms. Always verify insurance coverage includes gravel roads if you plan to explore beyond main highways.
Best Places to Drive in Iceland
Iceland's most famous driving route is the Ring Road, a 1,332 km loop that circles the entire island and showcases everything from waterfalls to glaciers to black sand beaches. Starting from Reykjavík, most drivers complete the Ring Road in 10-14 days, stopping at natural attractions and small towns along the way. The Golden Circle, a popular day trip from Reykjavík, covers approximately 300 km and includes Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
- Reykjavík: Iceland's capital city serves as the starting point for most road trips. The compact city center is walkable, but having a car allows you to explore nearby attractions like the Blue Lagoon, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and South Coast waterfalls within an hour or two of the city.
- South Coast Route: A scenic drive along Iceland's southern coast from Reykjavík features Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Sólheimasandur plane wreck, and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. This route requires good road conditions and careful attention to changing weather.
- Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Often called Iceland in miniature, this dramatic peninsula west of Reykjavík features black sand beaches, volcanic formations, and mountain scenery within a 2-3 day drive.
- North Iceland: Akureyri, Iceland's second-largest city, is the hub for exploring northern attractions including Godafoss waterfall, Lake Mývatn, and geothermal areas. The drive from Reykjavík to Akureyri takes approximately 5 hours.
Safety Tips for Driving in Iceland
- Check weather and road conditions: Before any drive, check the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration website for real-time updates. Conditions can change rapidly, and many routes are closed seasonally due to snow and ice.
- Respect one-lane bridges: Iceland's rural roads feature numerous one-lane bridges. Drive slowly, ensure the bridge is clear before proceeding, and yield to approaching vehicles. These bridges are not dangers, but require attention and courtesy.
- Fill up your fuel tank: Gas stations can be far apart outside Reykjavík, especially on remote routes. Refuel whenever the opportunity arises and never let your tank drop below half-full when driving remote areas.
- Keep your IDP for Iceland accessible: Store your International Driving Permit and original license together in an easily accessible location while driving. Police checkpoints, though infrequent, require both documents presented together.
- Drive slowly on gravel roads: Ring Road sections and rural roads are unpaved gravel. Reduce speed significantly, increase following distance, and watch for loose stones that can cause skids. Flying gravel can damage rental cars, so careful, slow driving protects both safety and your deposit.
Emergency in Iceland? Call 112 for police, fire, or medical emergencies. This number works from any location in Iceland, including remote areas, and operators speak English.
Get Your IDP for Iceland Today
Don't let missing documentation ruin your Iceland road trip. Whether you're planning to explore Reykjavík's vibrant culture, chase waterfalls along the South Coast, or tackle the challenging Ring Road, your International Driving Permit for Iceland is the essential document you need. World Drive Office offers the fastest, most affordable way to get your IDP for Iceland, with digital permits available instantly for $39 and physical permits delivered within 3-5 days for $69. Both are fully accepted by all Icelandic rental agencies, authorities, and insurers.
Start your application now and receive your IDP for Iceland before your departure. Our simple online process takes just minutes, and you'll have the documentation you need to drive legally and confidently across Iceland's stunning landscapes. Thousands of travelers have already trusted World Drive Office for their International Driving Permit needs. Join them and hit Iceland's roads prepared.