Asia
Driving in South Korea
Local law and rental desks expect an international permit alongside your home licence. Here is exactly what South Korea expects from a visiting driver, and how to have it before you land.
South Korea
Asia · drives on the right
- Drives on the
- Right
- Rental min age
- 18+
- Ready in
- 8 min
Do I need an international driving permit in South Korea?
Local law and rental desks expect an international permit alongside your home licence. A 1949-convention permit is accepted and routinely checked at rental desks.
Which side of the road does South Korea drive on?
South Korea drives on the right-hand side of the road.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in South Korea?
Rental desks in South Korea generally require drivers to be at least 18. Younger drivers may face a surcharge or be refused.
How quickly can I get one before I fly?
The digital document is issued in minutes — the median is 41 seconds after payment — and works offline. A printed booklet ships separately by tracked courier.
Requirements are set by South Korea and can change. We publish what the destination currently expects and update it when it moves. If South Korea refuses the document we recommended for it, our money-back guarantee applies.