Destinations / North Macedonia
Driving in North Macedonia as a visitor
Usually yes. North Macedonia expects visiting drivers to carry an International Driving Permit alongside their national licence, and rental desks ask for one. It matters most when your licence is not printed in the Latin alphabet.
Standard delivery included. Need it sooner? Express lands by for $25 more.
Reviewed July 2026 · A translation of your own licence, carried with it. Not a government permit.
What North Macedonia expects
| Permit needed | Expected |
|---|---|
| Convention format | 1968 Vienna |
| Valid for | Up to 3 years |
| Drives on the | Right |
| Emergency number | 112 |
| Top speed limit | 130 km/h motorways |
What the rental desk will ask you for
| Your own licence | The original card. A photo of it, or a photocopy, gets turned away. |
|---|---|
| Licence translation | Expected. Hand it over with the licence, never instead of it. |
| Booklet format they know | 1968 Vienna |
| Minimum age | 18. Under 25 usually pays a young-driver surcharge. |
| Deposit | A credit card in the driver's name. The hold is taken in MKD. |
Rules that catch visitors out
| Lights | Headlights on at all times. |
|---|---|
| In the car | Reflective vest and triangle required. |
| Alcohol | 0.05% alcohol limit; zero for new drivers. |
| Tolls | Toll motorways between major cities. |
On the road in North Macedonia
At the pump
Unleaded petrol (Eurosuper 95/98), diesel and LPG are widely available. Most stations are attended (full-serve); cash in denars is safest as card acceptance is inconsistent at rural stations.
After a crash
Dial the single European number 112 (or police 192). For any injury or damage that cannot be settled amicably you must call the police and obtain a report; do not move the vehicles until police authorise it.
Sources: rac.co.uk · vintrica.com · fuel-prices.eu · travel.state.gov
Common questions
Do you need an International Driving Permit in North Macedonia?
Usually yes. North Macedonia expects visiting drivers to carry an International Driving Permit alongside their national licence, and rental desks ask for one. It matters most when your licence is not printed in the Latin alphabet.
Which IDP format does North Macedonia accept?
North Macedonia recognises the 1968 Vienna format. Your permit is prepared in that format.
Will a rental desk in North Macedonia ask for one?
Skopje desks ask for an IDP with non-Latin-script licences.
How fast can you get one?
Express orders are emailed within 5 minutes. The exact delivery moment is quoted before you pay and the order is refundable for 30 days.