Non-EU/EEA licences
Italian rules generally require a valid non-EU/EEA driving licence to be accompanied by an International Driving Permit or an official Italian translation, subject to applicable international conventions.
Rental-company requirements
The legal driving-document rule and a rental company's acceptance policy are related but not identical. Verify the supplier's required documents before paying.
Prepare before travelling
An International Driving Permit is normally obtained in the country that issued your driving licence. Do not wait until arrival at the rental desk to check your documentation.