Destinations / Philippines
Driving in Philippines as a visitor
Not legally, but it is worth carrying. Philippines accepts foreign licences, and a permit removes any argument at the rental counter or a roadside check.
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 Philippines expects
| Permit needed | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Convention format | 1949 Geneva |
| Valid for | 1 year |
| Drives on the | Right |
| Emergency number | 911 |
| Top speed limit | 100 km/h expressways |
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 | Not required by law. Worth having if your licence is not printed in Latin script. |
| Booklet format they know | 1949 Geneva |
| 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 PHP. |
Rules that catch visitors out
| Local practice | Number-coding scheme limits plates on set days in Metro Manila. |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | 0.05% alcohol limit. |
| Helmets | Helmets mandatory for motorbikes. |
On the road in Philippines
At the pump
Stations are attended (no self-serve) and sell unleaded petrol by octane (91/95/97) and diesel; pump prices change weekly, typically around PHP 55-65 per litre, with cards accepted at branded city stations but cash safer rurally.
After a crash
Dial the national emergency line 911 for serious crashes and call the police to obtain a report; do not leave the scene, and exchange details, as rental firms require a police report before settling damage.
Sources: saferide.ph · ltoguideph.com · moneymax.ph · rappler.com
Common questions
Do you need an International Driving Permit in Philippines?
Not legally, but it is worth carrying. Philippines accepts foreign licences, and a permit removes any argument at the rental counter or a roadside check.
Which IDP format does Philippines accept?
Philippines recognises the 1949 Geneva format. Your permit is prepared in that format.
Will a rental desk in Philippines ask for one?
Manila desks recommend an IDP for non-English 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.