If you are an Australian planning to rent a car in Japan, the most important document you need to pack—besides your passport—is an International Driving Permit (IDP). Without it, car rental companies in Japan, including Relax-RentACar, cannot legally hand over the keys. Here is everything you need to know about getting your IDP in Australia.

What is an IDP?

An International Driving Permit is a United Nations-sanctioned document that translates your domestic driver's licence into multiple languages. For Japan, the IDP must be issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. Australia is a signatory to this convention, which makes the process straightforward.

Where to Apply in Australia

In Australia, IDPs are exclusively issued by state and territory motoring clubs. You can apply through:

• NRMA (New South Wales and ACT)
• RACV (Victoria)
• RACQ (Queensland)
• RAA (South Australia)
• RAC (Western Australia)
• RACT (Tasmania)
• AANT (Northern Territory)

How to Apply

You can apply online or in-person at a motoring club branch. You will need:

• A valid Australian driver's licence (Learner's permits are not accepted)
• A recent passport-sized photograph
• The application fee (currently around $53 AUD)

If you apply online, allow at least 5 to 7 business days for standard delivery. If you are leaving soon, we highly recommend visiting a branch in person to have your IDP issued on the spot.

Important Reminders for Japan

Your IDP is valid for exactly 12 months from the date of issue. When picking up your rental car in Japan, you must present your passport, your Australian driver's licence, and your physical IDP booklet. Digital copies are not accepted.