International driver’s license: from this date onwards, a fee will be charged for travelling abroad.

A trip abroad needs to be prepared well in advance, and this includes a number of administrative formalities that are sometimes overlooked. As of March 3, 2026, one of these has changed: you now have to pay for an International Driving Permit. This new rule applies to all those planning to rent a car outside the European Union.

International driving licenses to become fee-paying in 2026

Depending on your vacation destination, you may be required to obtain an international driving license. This formality, which used to be free of charge, now costs 7.25 euros per application. Fans of road trips outside Europe will need to factor this additional cost into their budget.

In European countries and the UK, a French driving license is sufficient. In other countries, however, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. So, before any trip abroad where you plan to get behind the wheel, find out about this requirement.

The good news, however, is that you don’t have to retake any tests to obtain this document. The process is exclusively online, on the ANTS website. Previously, this procedure could take up to a month. Thanks to digital procedures, this waiting time is now shorter.

“Previously free of charge, it is now compulsory to pay an administration fee of 7.25 euros.

Documents required for the application

To do this, you’ll need several legibly photographed or scanned documents. Prepare them in advance to avoid any delay in processing your application. Here is the complete list of documents required.

The ANTS website requires a certain level of quality in the files transmitted. Please ensure that each document is perfectly legible before validating your request.

• Proof of identity (identity card, passport or digital identity via the France Identité app)
• Proof of address less than 6 months old
• A valid driver’s license in good condition
• A signature photo, or e-photo, less than 6 months old
• Payment of a processing fee of 7.25 euros

What to check before traveling abroad

Before you travel abroad, it’s a good idea to check a few things well in advance. This gives you time to complete the necessary formalities without stress. Anticipating these formalities will help you avoid unpleasant surprises at the airport or on the spot.

The first thing to check is whether the country you’re about to visit requires a visa. If so, you should apply on official websites only. These applications may take a few days to be validated, so it’s best to plan ahead.

In some cases, a fee will be charged for this type of authorization. For England, for example, the ETA (electronic travel authorization) costs around 19 euros and is valid for two years. So remember to include these costs in your travel budget.

Car rental and financial issues

If you plan to rent a car to get around, find out in advance. Check whether an international license is required or whether your French license will suffice. This simple check can save you a lot of trouble at the rental counter.

It’s also a good idea to find out about the currencies used in the country before you leave. Ask yourself which is the best option: to withdraw and exchange money before you leave, or on the spot? Does your bank allow free transactions abroad?

These practical questions are an integral part of preparing for a successful trip abroad. Taking the time to answer them before you leave will help you make the most of your stay.

Anticipating for worry-free travel in 2026

With this change effective from March 3, 2026, travelers will have to adapt their habits. The cost of 7.25 euros remains modest, but this new rule deserves to be known. It’s best to include this step in your list of preparations.

For any trip abroad requiring the use of a vehicle, the international license becomes a budget item in its own right. Add to this any visas or travel authorizations required, and the administrative cost can quickly mount up.

By planning these formalities several weeks before your departure, you can approach your trip abroad with peace of mind. Online procedures simplify the process, as long as you do it early enough. Your next road trip outside Europe is waiting for you.

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