Do I need an international driving permit — or a DVLA code — to drive in Florida?
Reviewed by Jamie — A UK first-timer who did the homework so you don't have to. Last checked 2026-07-13.
The short answer
No IDP: your UK photocard licence is valid to drive in Florida. Some hire desks ask for a DVLA 'check code' to see your record — it's free at gov.uk, takes two minutes, and lasts 21 days, so generate it in the final week or two before you fly.
The International Driving Permit myth refuses to die because it's true for some countries — just not the US. A full UK photocard licence is all Florida requires, alongside the usual hire-company minimum ages and the credit-card deposit.
The DVLA check code ('view your driving licence' at gov.uk) shares your licence record — points, categories — with whoever you give it to. US desks ask for it inconsistently; Orlando desks see thousands of UK licences a week and often don't bother. Generate one anyway: it's free and the queue behind you at the desk is not the place to be doing gov.uk logins on hotel wifi.
One code lasts 21 days from generation, so do it in the last fortnight — it's on the checklist at the right time automatically.
Now check it against your dates
Or see your whole trip in the right order — every deadline from one set of dates.