Driving in Italy

International Driving Permit rules and car hire for Australians.

Yes — Australians need an International Driving Permit for Italy.

Italy legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit alongside their home licence. Australia issues the 1949 Geneva Convention permit through state motoring clubs, which Italy accepts. Hire companies increasingly refuse to release cars without one.

Drives on the rightOpposite to Australia
Minimum age 21For most hire companies
$50 – $110Typical daily hire
IDP required1949 Geneva Convention

What Australian drivers need to know

  • ZTL zones in Rome, Florence, Milan, Bologna and most historic centres are camera-enforced. Driving into one unknowingly is the most common way Australians end up with Italian fines.
  • Autostrada tolls are collected by ticket — take the white or blue lanes, not the yellow Telepass ones.
  • Manual transmission is standard; automatics cost substantially more and must be booked early.
  • Fuel is around three times the Australian price per litre.

How to get an International Driving Permit in Australia

Only the state and territory motoring clubs affiliated with the Australian Automobile Association can issue one — NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAA, RAC, RACT and AANT. It costs around $49, you don't need to be a member, and it's valid for 12 months.

You cannot get one once you have left Australia. Apply at least two weeks before you fly.

Read the full IDP guide

Insurance warning. Australian travel insurance policies exclude claims from driving or riding without a valid licence for that vehicle in that country. A car licence does not cover a scooter — hiring one in Italy without a motorcycle class on your Australian licence means an accident is entirely uninsured.

More Italy essentials

Entry requirements Passport, visa, arrival cards and customs rules for Australian passport holders. Connectivity Instant data, no physical SIM required. Travel insurance Medical, cancellation and luggage cover from Australian insurers. Money & payments Cards, cash and FX fees for Australian travellers. Airport transfer Trains, buses, private transfers and taxis compared. Travel essentials Adapters, plugs, tap water, tipping and health basics. Things to do Attractions, tours and passes worth booking ahead. Trip checklist Tick off every essential before you fly.

Italy driving FAQs

Do I need an International Driving Permit in Italy?

Yes. Italy legally requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their home licence, and hire companies increasingly enforce it. Get the 1949 Geneva Convention permit from your state motoring club in Australia before you leave.

What is a ZTL and why does it matter?

A ZTL is a limited traffic zone in a historic city centre, monitored by cameras. Driving into one without a permit triggers an automatic fine that reaches you months later through your hire car company, plus an admin fee. Park outside the zone and walk in.

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