Your Complete Guide to the KIDA International Driving License

If you love the open road and enjoy crossing borders, a KIDA International Driving License (IDL) can be a game‑changer. Below you’ll discover what the licence is, how it works, and everything you need to do to get one in your hands.

1. What Is the KIDA International Driving License?

The KIDA International Driving License is a globally recognised document issued by the Korea International Driving Association (KIDA). It serves as a supplementary licence to your national driver’s permit, allowing you to drive legally in more than 150 countries without the hassle of obtaining a temporary local licence.

Key benefits
1. Universal recognition – most foreign‑traffic authorities accept it as proof of driving competence.
2. Convenient translation – the licence includes translations in 12 major languages (English, Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, etc.).
3. Extended validity – typically 5 years, synchronised with your home‑country licence renewal schedule.

Quick tip: The KIDA IDL does not replace your national licence. You must carry both documents when driving abroad.

2. Who Can Apply?

Eligibility Criterion	Details
Age	Minimum 18 years (21 years for heavy‑vehicle categories).
Home licence	Must hold a valid driver’s licence from your country of residence.
Residency	Permanent or long‑term residents (≥ 6 months) of a KIDA member country.
Health	Pass a basic medical fitness test (vision ≥ 0.8, no severe physical impairments).
Criminal record	No serious traffic offences within the last 3 years.

If you tick all the boxes, you’re ready to start the application.

3. Step‑by‑Step: How to Obtain Your KIDA IDL

Gather Required Documents
- Valid national driver’s licence (original + photocopy).
- Passport (original + photocopy).
- Recent passport‑size photo (white background, 35 mm × 45 mm).
- Medical fitness certificate (issued by an authorised clinic).
- Proof of residence (utility bill, rental contract, or bank statement).
Complete the Online Application
- Visit the official KIDA portal: www.kida.org/apply.
- Fill in personal details, licence class, and travel intentions.
- Upload the scanned copies from step 1.
Pay the Application Fee
- Standard fee: USD 55 (covers processing, translation, and a plastic card).
- Express service (3‑day turnaround): USD 80.
Schedule a Quick Verification Interview(if required)
- Some jurisdictions request a brief video call to confirm identity.
- The interview lasts ~ 10 minutes and is free of charge.
Receive Your KIDA IDL
- Standard processing: 7–10 business days (mail to your address).
- Express processing: 3 business days (courier delivery).

Remember: Keep a digital copy of the licence on your phone as a backup, but always travel with the physical card.

4. Where Is the KIDA IDL Accepted?

The following table summarises the level of acceptance in major regions.

Region	Countries with Full Acceptance*	Countries with Conditional Acceptance**	Notes
Europe	Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden	United Kingdom, Norway, Switzerland	Most EU states treat KIDA IDL as an official translation of your home licence.
Americas	United States (most states), Canada, Brazil, Chile	Mexico, Argentina	In the U.S., some states require a supplementary International Driving Permit (IDP) – the KIDA IDL fulfills this requirement.
Asia‑Pacific	Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand	India, Thailand, Malaysia	In India you must also carry a local translation; KIDA supplies it on request.
Middle East & Africa	United Arab Emirates, Qatar, South Africa	Saudi Arabia, Kenya, Egypt	Some Gulf states need a notarised translation; KIDA provides this on demand.

* Full acceptance = you can drive with only the KIDA IDL plus your home licence.
** Conditional acceptance = additional documentation (e.g., local translation) may be required.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
Is the KIDA IDL the same as an International Driving Permit (IDP)?	No. The KIDA IDL is a separate, globally recognised licence issued by KIDA. It can replace an IDP in many jurisdictions, but some countries still ask for a traditional IDP.
How long does the KIDA IDL remain valid?	Five years, or until your national licence expires—whichever comes first.
Can I use the KIDA IDL for renting a car abroad?	Absolutely. Most major car‑rental companies accept it, especially when presented alongside your national licence.
What happens if I lose my KIDA IDL while traveling?	Contact the nearest KIDA regional office (or the local embassy). A temporary replacement can be issued within 48 hours, usually for a nominal fee.
Do heavy‑vehicle (bus, truck) drivers need a special class?	Yes. You must apply for the appropriate vehicle class (e.g., “C” for trucks) and meet the higher age and medical standards.
Is the licence transferable to family members?	No. The KIDA IDL is personal and non‑transferable. Each driver must obtain their own licence.
Will a KIDA IDL help me avoid local driving tests when moving abroad?	In many countries, yes – the licence is accepted as proof of competency, sparing you a lengthy test. However, some jurisdictions (e.g., Japan) still require a local test for permanent residents.

6. Quick Checklist Before You Hit the Road

Carry BOTH your national licence and the KIDA IDL.
Verify the specific requirements of your destination (some still demand an additional IDP).
Keep a digital backup (scan or photo) on a secure cloud service.
Check the expiry dates of both licences at least 30 days before travel.
If you plan to rent a vehicle, confirm the rental company’s accepted documents online.

7. Final Thoughts

A KIDA International Driving License can dramatically simplify cross‑border travel, allowing you to focus on the journey rather than paperwork. By meeting the modest eligibility criteria, following the straightforward application steps, and staying aware of each country’s specific rules, you’ll be ready to explore new roads with confidence.

Ready to start? Visit the KIDA portal today, complete the short application, and enjoy the freedom of driving anywhere the road takes you. Safe travels!