To drive in Kyrgyzstan with a foreign licence you need two documents: your original driving licence and either an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a translation of your licence into Russian or Kyrgyz. Police check them at roadside stops, and the same documents are required to rent a car with AYDO.
Two legal options
| Option | What you carry | Where to get it |
|---|---|---|
| Licence + IDP | Your national licence and an International Driving Permit | At home, before the trip — from the office or automobile club that issues IDPs in your country |
| Licence + translation | Your national licence and its translation into Russian or Kyrgyz | From AYDO: 30 EUR, ready in one business day |
One of the two is enough — you don’t need both. The IDP, sometimes called an international driver’s license, is valid only together with your national licence, never on its own.
Only originals are accepted
Carry the physical licence and the paper IDP or translation. Kyrgyz police do not accept photos, photocopies or a digital licence on your phone.
No IDP? We translate your licence
If you don’t have an IDP, AYDO makes a translation of your licence that is accepted by local police.
- Price: 30 EUR.
- Time: one business day.
- How to order: add the translation when you book the car, or request it later by email at rent@aydo.kg and send us a copy of your licence. Order at least one business day before your pick-up date.
- Pick-up: the translation is ready when you collect the car in Bishkek.
Driving without an IDP or translation
A foreign licence on its own is not enough. If police stop you without an IDP or a translation, you face a high fine, and the car is taken to a police impound lot.
Licence requirements to rent a car
- You are between 25 and 75 years old.
- You have held a category B licence for at least five years; the experience is checked by the issue date on your licence.
- If your licence was renewed recently and shows a new issue date, bring a photo of your old licence or a driving record from your licensing authority — the insurer checks the real length of experience.
- Every driver on the rental agreement needs their own licence plus an IDP or a translation. The second driver is included in the rental price.
IDP and licence translation: FAQ
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Kyrgyzstan?
You need your original licence together with either an IDP or a translation of the licence into Russian or Kyrgyz.
Is an IDP valid without my national licence?
No. An IDP is valid only together with your national driving licence.
Can I show my driving licence on my phone?
No. Police accept only the physical licence and a paper IDP or translation.
How much does a licence translation cost?
30 EUR at AYDO, ready in one business day.
Can I order the translation after booking?
Yes. Add it when you book, or email us later — at least one business day before pick-up.
Traffic rules, speed limits and police checks are on our driving in Kyrgyzstan page. Ready to plan the route? See 4×4 car rental in Kyrgyzstan.
Useful information: Driving in Kyrgyzstan | Forbidden roads | Mountain passes | Petrol stations | Border permit | Insurance