French Polynesia, UK Licence 2026: Carry the 1968 IDP Too
United Kingdom
French Polynesia
Yes, with the 1968 international driving permit. GOV.UK says to carry it and your UK licence when driving in French Polynesia, and to buy it in the UK before you travel. Traffic keeps right.
French Polynesia is a French overseas collectivity spread across the South Pacific, with Papeete on Tahiti as its hub. Outside Tahiti, the driving is some of the gentlest anywhere. Even so, a British licence on its own will not do.
The permit British drivers need
GOV.UK’s advice is specific: “You’ll need to carry both the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence when driving.” The permit is required. It is also only sold in the UK, so buy it before you fly. Unlike mainland France, which accepts a UK photocard on its own, French Polynesia is handled separately in GOV.UK’s advice. Follow the French Polynesia guidance, not the French one.
GOV.UK adds that hire firms often set stricter conditions, such as a year of experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP. Read the rental terms before you pay.
Right-hand traffic
The UK drives on the left, while French Polynesia drives on the right. The first hour carries the most risk: pulling out of junctions, roundabouts that turn the other way, a glance in the wrong direction. Outside Papeete there is little traffic, which makes it a gentle place to adjust.
What the driving is like
Many islands have a short network, often a single coastal road. Tahiti’s busiest roads are around Papeete and the airport. Expect scooters, pedestrians and sudden tropical rain, which cuts grip. On smaller islands, fuel stations are few and keep short hours.
Emergency numbers
Ambulance 15, fire 18, police 17.
Use the Driving Permit Checker for other legs of the trip and the Speed Limit Map to plan routes.
Sources
- GOV.UK foreign travel advice, French Polynesia, safety and security (1968 IDP, hire requirements): https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/french-polynesia/safety-and-security
- GOV.UK foreign travel advice, French Polynesia, getting help (emergency numbers): https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/french-polynesia/getting-help
- GOV.UK, international driving permit table (French Polynesia: 1968): https://www.gov.uk/driving-abroad/international-driving-permit
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but GOV.UK says you need both the 1968 international driving permit and your UK licence with you when driving. The IDP is only sold in the UK, so buy it before you travel.
On the right, like France, while the UK drives on the left. That side switch is the main adjustment for British visitors.
GOV.UK says hire firms often have stricter requirements, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP. Check their terms before you book.