Rental cars and international driving permits

Short-term foreign visitors need a valid international driving permit or another license recognized by Korea, and should also carry their passport and home country license. The permit must be issued under a convention that Korea recognizes. Rental car companies check these documents together with your passport.

No. The standard is an international driving permit issued by a country that belongs to a convention Korea recognizes. Some countries have separate agreements that allow their licenses to be used, and you should also check the validity of your permit and which vehicle types it covers. See guidance from the Korean National Police Agency or the Korea Road Traffic Authority before you go.

There is no single legal rule, but many rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 and to have held a license for at least a year. Some vehicle types require an older minimum age, so check each company's conditions before booking. A credit card is often needed for the contract, and additional drivers must show their own license documents.

Korea drives on the right side of the road, with the driver's seat on the left. If you come from a left-hand traffic country such as the UK, Japan or Australia, take extra care at intersections and turns. It helps to practice in a quiet area first.

When turning right, you must stop if pedestrians are crossing or about to cross at the crosswalk. If the signal ahead is red, you must first come to a full stop even when no pedestrians are present. At intersections with a dedicated right-turn signal, follow that signal, and since violations are enforced, turn slowly and check carefully.

Yes. Korean roads have many cameras for speeding and red-light violations, and some sections measure average speed over a distance. Navigation apps warn you about camera locations. Fines incurred in a rental car can be billed to you later through the rental company.

Most rental cars have built-in navigation, but it may be mainly in Korean. Many drivers use Korean map apps on their phones instead; some, such as Naver Map, offer English turn-by-turn guidance, though the amount of English place information can vary. Searching by address or phone number tends to give the most accurate results.

Most Korean expressways charge tolls, which you pay by cash or card at the booth, or automatically by driving through a Hi-pass lane with a Hi-pass device holding a valid card. If your rental car has Hi-pass, tolls are often settled when you return it. If you accidentally enter a Hi-pass-only lane, there are ways to pay afterward.

Korea punishes drink driving very strictly, and a blood alcohol concentration of 0.03 percent or higher is an offense. If you have had even a little to drink, do not drive; use a designated driver service or a taxi instead. Checkpoints operate during the day as well as at night.

Parking is scarce in city centers and illegal parking is strictly enforced, so use public or paid parking lots. Check in advance whether your hotel or the sights you plan to visit have parking. Fines are higher than usual in places such as near fire hydrants, and stopping or parking on crosswalks is also prohibited.

Yes. Because Jeju's public transport is less dense than in mainland big cities, car rental is very common. Many travelers take a rental company shuttle from the airport to pick up their car, with stop locations and hours varying by company. In peak season, book early and read the insurance terms carefully, and drive with care on windy days.

Beyond basic coverage, you can add insurance that covers damage to the rental car itself. Check the coverage, deductible and exclusions in the contract carefully. If you are driving on unfamiliar roads, broader coverage can give you peace of mind.

If anyone is injured, call 119 immediately, and report to the police on 112. Move to a safe spot, take photos, exchange details with the other party and notify the rental company and insurer right away. If language is a problem, the 1330 hotline can help with interpretation.

Speed limits in children's protection zones can be set at 30 km/h or lower, and penalties for accidents there are very severe. Follow the limit posted on site. When you see yellow markings and signs, slow down and watch for children. Some designated zones use different limits by time of day, so check the times and speeds shown on the signs.

Short-term travelers can drive with an international driving permit. Long-term residents with alien registration may be able to exchange their home license for a Korean one under certain conditions. Check the Korea Road Traffic Authority's official guidance for eligible countries and procedures.

In cities, lane changes are frequent and there are many motorbikes and delivery vehicles, so stay alert. Regular cars may not enter bus-only lanes while they are in operation, and the hours and permitted vehicles differ by road, so read the signs. Use your horn only when needed for safety, and handling your phone while driving is also enforced.

Yes. Many rental companies offer electric cars, and chargers are found at highway rest areas and large parking lots. Charging methods and payment options vary and can be confusing at first, so ask the rental company about charging cards or methods. Plan your charging stops for long trips.

Yes. Korea requires car seats for children under a certain age. Rental companies can provide car seats, so request one when you book. Make sure the seat suits your child's age and size. Supplies may be limited, so ask early.

In winter, Gangwon Province and mountain areas often have snow and icy roads that make driving risky. Check whether your rental car has winter tires or chains, and adjust your plans according to the weather forecast. During the summer monsoon, slow down in heavy rain as well.

The Korean National Police Agency and the Korea Road Traffic Authority provide driving information for foreigners. Rental companies also explain key rules when you sign the contract. Rules and fines can change, so check the latest information before your trip.