Driving in South Korea
International Driving Permit rules and car hire for Australians.
South Korea accepts the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP issued in Australia. Carry it with your Australian licence and passport.
What Australian drivers need to know
- Most visitors don't need a car — Seoul's subway and the KTX high-speed rail cover almost everything.
- Jeju Island is the main exception, where a car is genuinely useful.
- Speed cameras are everywhere and fines are automatic.
- Blood alcohol limit is 0.03, lower than Australia's 0.05.
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 guideInsurance 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 South Korea without a motorcycle class on your Australian licence means an accident is entirely uninsured.
More South Korea essentials
South Korea driving FAQs
Do I need an International Driving Permit in South Korea?
Yes, if you plan to drive. Korea accepts the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP issued in Australia, carried with your Australian licence and passport.
Watching South Korea?
We'll email you when entry rules or prices change for Australians travelling to South Korea.