Don't let a paperwork problem end your trip before it begins. Whether crossing from Syria into Turkey or flying into Istanbul, knowing exactly which documents you need — and which are optional but strongly recommended — saves stress at the rental desk and at checkpoints along the way.

Driving in Turkey as a Foreign National

Turkey accepts foreign driving licenses from most countries for stays of up to six months from the date of entry, provided the license is printed in Latin characters. If your license uses a non-Latin script — Arabic, Cyrillic, Georgian, or others — you must carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your original license. The IDP is a certified translation document and does not replace your home license; both must be presented together.

EU and EEA nationals may drive on their standard license with no time limit. For travelers from the United States, Canada, Australia, and most of the Middle East, the six-month rule applies. After six consecutive months of residence in Turkey, a foreign license is no longer valid — authorities require conversion to a local one.

The International Driving Permit (IDP)

Even if your license is printed in Latin characters, carrying an IDP is a smart precaution. The IDP is issued in your home country — typically by your national automobile association — as a small booklet that translates your license details into multiple languages. It takes a day or two to obtain and costs very little, and it is valid for one year.

If your Syrian license uses Arabic script, an IDP is not just recommended — it is required to rent from established companies, including Auris.

Driving in Syria as a Foreign National

Citizens of Arab League countries generally drive on their home license without additional documentation. Citizens of other nations should carry both their home license and an IDP. Given conditions across different parts of the country, having an Arabic-language translation of your license reduces delays at security checkpoints. All Auris Damascus rental agreements are bilingual (English and Arabic) so you always know exactly what you are signing.

Minimum Age Requirements

In Turkey: 21 minimum for standard vehicles, with one year of driving experience. Premium cars and 9-seaters require drivers to be at least 25. A young driver surcharge applies for renters aged 21–24. In Syria: minimum rental age is 23.

What to Bring to the Rental Desk

Valid passport — the primary ID for all rentals
Original driving license from your home country
IDP — required if non-Latin license, strongly recommended otherwise
Credit card — required for the security deposit hold
booking confirmation

At Police Checkpoints

Turkish traffic police conduct routine document checks on intercity highways. They will ask for your driving license and the vehicle registration (ruhsat), which stays in the glovebox of every Auris rental. If you are on a non-Latin license, have your IDP open to the relevant language page — it speeds the process significantly.

In Syria, carrying a printed copy of your rental agreement alongside your passport and license is helpful at security checkpoints. All Auris Damascus vehicles carry official vehicle documents; ensure these are not left in the car if the vehicle will be unattended.

Preparing your documents before you arrive means your first morning is spent driving — not standing at a counter looking for paperwork.

Driving Requirements for Foreigners in Turkey & Syria