Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Planning, Trip > Trip Paperwork
Serbia - without an IDP Serbia - without an IDP
Register FAQ Calendar Today's Posts
Trip Paperwork Covers all documentation, carnets, customs and country requirements, how to deal with insurance etc.
Photo by Igor Djokovic, camping above San Juan river, Arizona USA

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Igor Djokovic,
camping above San Juan river,
Arizona USA



Like Tree4Likes

Reply
Page 1 of 2 1 2
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 8 Jun 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: Cornwall, in the far southwest of England, UK
Posts: 597
Serbia - without an IDP
Has anyone tried and been successful at entering Serbia without an International Driving Permit?

See, I want to cross from Croatia next weekend, probably through the Batrovci border crossing.

I have my ordinary UK photo licence and paper counterpart, BUT for the first time in ages I'm not travelling with an International Driving Permit [], thinking that - maybe unwisely and without sufficient forethought - that in 'European' territory an IDP would be unnecessary.

The requirement for an IDP can be a bit 'hit-and-miss' no matter where you are in the world, so I have discovered. However, the FCO's relevant web page indicates that an IDP is mandatory: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-ad...y-and-security

There again, I have researched further advice suggesting that just my UK licence on its own will be sufficient: EU driving license is valid in Serbia | LivinginBelgrade.com

Can anyone shed some light? Otherwise I'm going to have to simply rock-up at the border and look all innocent (could be tricky! )

Thanks
__________________
Right Way Round ...
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 8 Jun 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Nov 2009
Location: cacak/Serbia
Posts: 174
Don't worry about International driving permit for Serbia ...it is not necessary to haw, in order to cross the border ....I went with out one all the way to Japan last year and no problem at all....
Welcome to Serbia
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 8 Jun 2015
g6snl's Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Aug 2011
Location: Home in Essex GB
Posts: 563
I would be shocked if you were even asked for a license. I have never been asked in EU or directly adjacent countries. Except when purchasing border insurance.
__________________
Regards Tim

Learning my craft for the big stuff, it won't be long now and it's not that far anyway
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 8 Jun 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: NSW Australia - but never there
Posts: 1,235
Been through Serbia twice in the last three months. They will ask for your passport and the vehicle registration and insurance papers. That is likely to be all unless there is some irregularity.

Ours is German registration and the Green insurance document.

They - and other countries apart from Turkey, didn't even bother with the fact that the vehicle papers are in a company name and so completely different to our passport name. Turkey did the job properly and I had to explain the discrepancy.

IDP - been carrying a current permit for several years and never been asked for it.
__________________
Tony
Click here for Travel Photos & Travel Map
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 8 Jun 2015
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Jan 2002
Location: Toronto, Canada
Posts: 2,132
Keith:

The International Driving Permit (IDP) is nothing more than an official translation of your driver licence into a number of languages (about 6 different languages).

It was useful and important many years ago (like, in the 1950s and 1960s) when very few people travelled out of their home country, and very few officials spoke languages other than their home country language.

Today, it's almost a historical artifact. I've carried one for 30 years, and never had any need to produce it.

If your driver licence is written in English (which I presume it is), then don't worry about going into Serbia with only your national licence. It's quite probable that the border officials will have sufficient grasp of the English language to read your national licence... assuming, of course, that they even ask to see it.

If you were going into rural Russia, or rural China, or the backwoods of Arabic speaking countries... well, that's another matter entirely. In such a case it would probably be a good idea to have an IDP with you to serve as a translation of your national licence.

Michael
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 8 Jun 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: Zagreb, Croatia
Posts: 423
Like all the above posters told you, nothing to be worried about, you do not need IDP.
Enjoy your ride, and see you soon ,

Dooby
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 9 Jun 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: Cornwall, in the far southwest of England, UK
Posts: 597
Thumbs up
Thanks for all your kind replies and remarks.

[I'm a bit of a worrier - and always have been. ] Yesterday, I had put together a contingency to skirt around the top of Serbia, through southern Hungary, to get into Romania. I'll bin that idea now and head straight for Batrovci from Zagreb.

@ Frgich: Dooby, today we are visiting Krka National Park. We'll be heading your way tomorrow after breakfast. See you sometime during the afternoon.

K&E
__________________
Right Way Round ...
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 9 Jun 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: NSW Australia - but never there
Posts: 1,235
Ah yes, the " Officer. But, but BUT ......... Fred from the HUBB forum said I didn't need to ...." defense.
__________________
Tony
Click here for Travel Photos & Travel Map
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 9 Jun 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: Zagreb, Croatia
Posts: 423
Quote:
Originally Posted by Keith1954 View Post
Thanks for all your kind replies and remarks.

[I'm a bit of a worrier - and always have been. ] Yesterday, I had put together a contingency to skirt around the top of Serbia, through southern Hungary, to get into Romania. I'll bin that idea now and head straight for Batrovci from Zagreb.

@ Frgich: Dooby, today we are visiting Krka National Park. We'll be heading your way tomorrow after breakfast. See you sometime during the afternoon.

K&E
Hey you two, I hope that Krka national park was a nice experience for you. It's really hot in the last couple of weeks all over Croatia, so I bet you took a swim

Enjoy the road, and we'll be waiting for you,

Dooby
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 10 Jun 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: Gatwick UK
Posts: 491
Hi we crossed into Serbia for a brief visit last week am currently sunning myself in a roasting hot montenegro, all they wanted to see, other than your passport was the v5 and green card. I only have the old duffers driving licence which I supplement with my passport. Anyways never mind the idp it's high factor sun cream you want, it has been low thirties around here for last two weeks..........
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 23 Aug 2015
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 1
Hi all,
I'm thinking of going to the Balkans, Albania and Macedonia in a couple of weeks time. Was scratching my head as to whether I need an International Driver's Licence or not - for Albania, most particularly, as will be entering through ferry to Durres.
So will an EU driving licence suffice? I was in Montenegro and Bosnia a couple of years back and wasn't asked for it at all.
Thanks!
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 23 Aug 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: Cornwall, in the far southwest of England, UK
Posts: 597
Quote:
Originally Posted by dancall08 View Post
Hi all,
I'm thinking of going to the Balkans, Albania and Macedonia in a couple of weeks time. Was scratching my head as to whether I need an International Driver's Licence or not - for Albania, most particularly, as will be entering through ferry to Durres.
So will an EU driving licence suffice? I was in Montenegro and Bosnia a couple of years back and wasn't asked for it at all.
Thanks!
I was concerned about not having an international driving permit, but only for Serbia, as the FCO stipulates one is necessary for this particular country.

As it turned out, all the above reassuring comments were correct. An IDP was not a prerequisite for entry into Serbia. In fact, all the border official wanted to see was my EU passport. No driving documentation was asked for whatsoever; not even insurance coverage, i.e. green card or a temporary border cover note.

After the immigration check, I just rode on through. Mind you, it was a Sunday (quiet) and therefore not a 'business as usual' day - maybe that's how I escaped the insurance requirement.

Your EU driving licence will be sufficient for Macedonia and Albania. Motor insurance cover, however, is mandatory. If your domestic insurance policy or green card doesn't include cover for these two countries, then you'll be obliged to buy temporary cover at the border crossings.
.
__________________
Right Way Round ...
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 24 Aug 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Australia
Posts: 1,131
There is a difference between what is officially legally required and what is commonly asked for.

If you have a legal incident/problem then you may 'need' an IDP .. and if you don't have one then 'they' may find that an easy thing to pursue for a fine rather than just lecture you for the original 'offence' and let you go. Just up to the people involved at the time, and a big influence here may be your attitude as perceived by them.
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 24 Aug 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: NSW Australia - but never there
Posts: 1,235
Broadening the topic a bit now that the original question has been asked and answered, I've been asked for my drivers license a couple of times in South America, the most recent in Colombia, so now I hand over photocopies of that as well as the title and registration papers. Saves a trip back to the copyshop.
__________________
Tony
Click here for Travel Photos & Travel Map
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 24 Aug 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Australia
Posts: 1,131
Quote:
Originally Posted by Tony LEE View Post
Broadening the topic a bit now that the original question has been asked and answered, I've been asked for my drivers license a couple of times in South America, the most recent in Colombia, so now I hand over photocopies of that as well as the title and registration papers. Saves a trip back to the copyshop.
Laminated colour copies of the licence (if it is laminated itself).
Colour copies of the other paperwork too.

Originals ... try to keep them out of other peoples hands.
Reply With Quote
Reply
Page 1 of 2 1 2

« Previous Thread | Next Thread »

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Updated info regarding border crossing from Serbia to Kosovo....? Hellboy Route Planning 2 23 Jul 2013 07:24
Hi, from Serbia Pericamali Welcome to HU 3 12 Oct 2012 13:38
Romania - Serbia Bramdrupdam Travellers Seeking Travellers 8 29 Aug 2012 17:56

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

HU Event and other updates on the HUBB Forum "Traveller's Advisories" thread.
ALL Dates subject to change.

2024:

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

HUBBUK: info

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

Your ad could be here, on EVERY page of the HUBB, or the whole website, or as many as you like!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.



All times are GMT +1. The time now is 15:01.

Contact Us - Horizons Unlimited Motorcycle Travellers Website - Archive - Privacy Statement - Top