Getting an International Driving Permit
An International Driving Permit is a document, based on international conventions, that lets other countries recognize your license. With a Korean license you can get one at a testing center, some police stations or some airport counters, or apply online through the Korea Road Traffic Authority's Safe Driving Civil Service portal.
It is valid for one year from the date of issue. If your Korean license is suspended or revoked, the permit also loses effect.
- Bring: your license, passport and a photo of the required size (more documents for proxy applications)
- Abroad, it is common to carry the International Driving Permit together with your Korean license and passport
Driving abroad
The permit is mainly accepted in countries that are party to the convention and may not be recognized in countries that are not, or that have their own rules. How long you can use it and rental companies' requirements also vary, so check the destination country's embassy or government guidance before leaving.
Korea also issues a license card with English on the back. In countries that accept it, you may be able to drive on short visits with it and your passport without an International Driving Permit, but acceptance varies, so be sure to check.
If you have an accident abroad, insurance and legal procedures may differ from Korea. When renting a car, check the insurance coverage and note the local emergency number.
Foreigners driving in Korea
With an International Driving Permit issued abroad, you can drive in Korea for one year from the date of entry. It must be issued under a convention Korea recognizes, and licenses from some countries may not be accepted.
If you plan a long stay, consider converting to a Korean license before that period ends. In Korea, traffic keeps to the right, and rules such as those for right turns on red and child protection zones are strictly enforced.
Once one year has passed since entry, you can no longer drive in Korea with an International Driving Permit, so you need a Korean license to keep driving.
Converting a foreign license
Holders of a foreign license (including Koreans who got a license abroad) can apply at a testing center to convert it to a Korean license. A license from a country with mutual recognition can usually be converted with simple steps such as an aptitude (medical) check; otherwise, you may need to take some tests such as the written test.
- Usually needed: the original foreign license, passport, proof of residence status (for foreigners) and a photo
- You may be asked for documents verifying the foreign license (such as an embassy confirmation or apostille) and a translation
- There may be extra requirements, such as how long you stayed in the country where you got the license
- Exact documents and exemptions vary by country, so check with a testing center before visiting
Good to know
- Get your International Driving Permit well in advance rather than right before departure.
- Check which license documents your overseas rental company requires when booking.
- Documents for converting a foreign license can take time to obtain, so preparing them before coming to Korea is easier.
- The written test is available in some foreign languages, which helps if you need to take it.
FAQ
How long is an International Driving Permit valid?
One year from the date of issue. It also loses effect if your Korean license is suspended or revoked.
Can I drive abroad with just the English-format Korean license?
In countries that accept it, you can use it with your passport, but many countries don't. Always check the destination's rules.
How long can a foreigner drive in Korea with an International Driving Permit?
For one year from the date of entry. For a longer stay, consider converting to a Korean license.
Do I need to take tests to convert a foreign license?
For countries with mutual recognition, tests are generally waived; otherwise, some tests may be required. Check country-specific rules with a testing center.
Sources
- Road Traffic Act
- Enforcement Rule of the Road Traffic Act
- Korea Road Traffic Authority Safe Driving Civil Service portal
Laws change. This is general information. Check KoROAD or the Korean Law Information Center for the latest rules.
Related
In Korea, a driver's license must be renewed within a set period: Class 1 holders take a periodic aptitude test and Class 2 holders renew the license. The usual cycle is 10 years, shortened to 5 years from age 65 and 3 years from age 75.
Types of Driver's LicensesIn Korea, driver's licenses are divided into Class 1, Class 2 and learner's permits. Most people choose either Class 1 Ordinary or Class 2 Ordinary for passenger cars; buses, large trucks and tow vehicles require separate licenses.
Written TestIn Korea, the written test is a 40-question computer test; 70 or more passes for Class 1 and 60 or more for Class 2. Questions come from the question bank published by the Korea Road Traffic Authority, so steady practice by topic is enough to prepare.
Traffic Lights and Safety SignsSignals tell you when to go and when to stop; signs tell you what to watch for and what not to do on that road. Once you know the color and shape rules, you can guess the meaning of signs you have never seen.