Driving License Validity Abroad: Everything You Need to Know

So, you're about to drive outside Italy for the first time, or you're seriously considering the idea? A drastic change of scenery is the best way to recharge, and you'll soon be surprised at how different driving styles are in other European countries compared to ours! In any case, before setting off, you should first understand the validity of the Italian driving license abroad. In this article, we answer all your doubts (even the ones you didn't know you had) about driving abroad and the related regulations.

Italian driving license: where is it valid?

The first point to clarify is the geographical limits of an Italian-issued driving license. If your destination is within the European Union, the matter is quite simple: you can drive with your license, without any restrictions, in all EU, EEA (European Economic Area), and Schengen Area countries. This also includes France's overseas territories, such as French Guiana and Réunion in the Madagascar archipelago. Just remember that the only valid version of your license is the physical one, as the digital document uploaded to the IO app is only accepted in Italy.

For those driving in the United States, the rules are more complex since each state sets its own regulations. For example, in states like California and Florida—two of the most visited—it is sufficient to have an Italian license. However, states like Illinois and Massachusetts require an additional international driving permit, which can be obtained from the Italian Department of Motor Vehicles and is also required in most Asian countries.

Some states, such as Arizona, allow an officially certified English translation of the Italian license instead of an International Driving Permit. This translation serves as a certificate of validity and must be done by a certified translator registered in official lists. More information can be found on the dedicated page of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport.

Validity limits of the Italian driving license abroad

Naturally, when driving abroad, you must comply with the local traffic laws. For example, if the minimum age to ride a scooter is 16, you won’t be allowed to drive one at 14, even if that is permitted in Italy.

If you lose your driving license while abroad, you must immediately contact your country's consulate or embassy and file a report. After the necessary checks—authorities must verify that your license is valid and not subject to any restrictions—a temporary document will be issued, allowing you to drive in that foreign country for a limited period.

Regarding insurance, if your policy was issued in the EU, it will also be valid in all other EU countries. To avoid issues, always carry your insurance documents with you, even in digital format, so you have them readily available in case of an accident or police check. This also applies to insurance policies when renting a car abroad. We recommend reading this article on driving rental cars abroad to learn more.