Renting a Car and Your (International) Driver's License

Of course, renting a car requires a driver’s license. And: you’ll need to bring it with you! This may seem obvious, but there are still a few things to keep in mind that we’d like to share with you here.

Requirements and Differences Regarding Driver’s Licenses and Car Rentals

How long you must have held a driver’s license to rent a car varies by situation. This depends on the destination, the local car rental company, and sometimes the type of car. In some cases, it depends on a combination of your age and the number of years you’ve held a driver’s license. There are also destinations where these requirements don’t apply. In short, this varies, and various factors come into play. To find out what applies to your specific situation, check the rental terms and conditions. If you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to contact us.

International Driver’s License for Car Rentals

In some countries outside the EU, a Dutch driver’s license may not be recognized as a valid document. In that case, you’ll need an international driver’s license in addition to your regular driver’s license. This document is essentially a translation of your European driver’s license into the following languages: English, Chinese, Arabic, Greek, Indonesian, Portuguese, Spanish, and Russian. If you need one, please be aware that this is an additional document, required in addition to your regular driver’s license.

International Driver’s License—Which Countries?

Whether an international driver’s license is actually required depends on your destination. Again, you can find the specific requirements in the rental terms and conditions.

How to Get Your International Driver’s License

You can easily purchase an international driver’s license at any ANWB store. You’ll need your Dutch driver’s license and a recent, clear passport photo. The cost is around 20 euros.

Forgotten or Expired Driver’s License

Imagine this: to your great shock, you discover upon arrival at your destination that you’ve forgotten your driver’s license. Before we discuss possible solutions, here’s the most important thing: always remember to bring your driver’s license with you. It prevents stress and hassle, which is the last thing you want when your vacation begins. If you did happen to leave your driver’s license at home, please call one of our service representatives. We’ll do our best to transfer the reservation to your travel companion’s name, provided they have a driver’s license and a credit card. Please be aware that this isn’t always possible so close to the start of the rental. In that case—or if you’re traveling alone—there’s unfortunately no other option but to cancel your reservation.

If you realize too late that your driver’s license has expired, the same applies. In that case as well, we’ll do our best to transfer the reservation to your travel companion’s name. Of course, that person must also have a valid driver’s license and a credit card.