Should I get an International Driving Permit or convert to a Korean license?

Driving in Korea as a foreigner depends on how long you will be here and what country your license is from.

International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP is for short-term use, valid up to 1 year from your arrival in Korea. You get it from your home country before traveling (in the US it is from AAA, in the UK from the AA, etc.). It only works alongside your original home country license. After 1 year in Korea, IDP becomes invalid even if not expired, and you must convert to a Korean license to drive legally.

Korean Driver's License Conversion. If you are staying long term, convert to a Korean license. The process depends on your country of origin.

From countries with conversion agreements (US, UK, EU members, Australia, Canada, Japan, etc.), you can usually convert without retaking the road test. Bring your valid foreign license, ARC, passport, proof of license duration in your home country, and pass a basic eye test at the Driver's License Test Office. Take a written test (40 multiple choice questions, available in English). Cost is around 10,000 won. Process takes a few hours.

From countries without agreements (most of Africa, parts of Asia and South America), you need to take the full Korean license process: written test, skill test, and road test. This can take 1 to 3 months.

What I recommend. If you are staying less than a year, an IDP from home is fine. If you are staying longer than a year or plan to renew your visa, convert to a Korean license early. The Korean license is also a useful Korean-issued ID, often accepted in place of passport for daily use.

Key tips. Driving in Seoul is challenging due to congestion and Korean driving culture. Many expats find subway and bus more practical. If you need a car, Korean automakers offer leasing and short-term car rentals (SoCar, Greencar) for occasional needs. Drivers under 26 may face higher insurance costs.