Do You Required an International Driving Permit?

Do you travel internationally? If you plan to rent a car overseas, your trusty state driver’s license may not get you very far.

Before you leave home, get an International Driving Permit (IDP), a valid form of identification in 150 countries that translates your information into multiple languages. An IDP always speaks the language, even if you don’t.

The IDP is not a driver’s license. This small paper booklet simply serves as a translation of your valid U.S.-issued driver’s license. It contains your name, photo and typical driver information. Information appears in 10 languages—which is key if you are ever have to present your ID in a foreign country.

The International Driving Permit has been around since the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Travel, which set up a framework to issue driving licenses in many languages. When driving outside your own country, you carry this permit along with your regular driver’s license as a legal pairing of identity-proving documentation.

Countries That Require an International Driving Permit

In general, if you are traveling outside of North America, it’s usually a good idea to get an IDP. In some countries in South America, you’ll need an IADP. Before your trip, check the list of countries on the application form to see which permit you need.

Renting a Car in Europe: Get an IDP

A few English-speaking European countries—England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Ireland—recognize U.S. driver’s licenses. But most other popular European destinations such as Italy, France, Germany, and Spain require that you also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your regular driver’s license.

In addition, rental car companies outline license requirements in their booking conditions and rules. You provide this information before completing the reservation, but many renters don’t read them. If you’re renting overseas, it always pays to read the fine print.

Note that if you rent a car in the U.K. but drive through the Eurotunnel to mainland Europe, you will need an IDP. You, the renter, are responsible for staying within the laws of any countries you visit. You don’t want to be at a traffic stop in a foreign country where your U.S.-issued driver’s license is not valid on its own.

Renting a Car in South America: Get an IADP or IDP

Heading to South America? You may be better off with the IADP (Inter-American Driving Permit). While the IDP is accepted in more than 150 countries around the world, some countries in South America—most notably Brazil and Uruguay—never signed onto the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Travel. Those countries only accept the less common IADP.

Renting a Car in Asia: Get an IDP

Renting a car in Asia? An IDP is required in popular destinations such as Japan, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia and Laos.

Note that China never signed onto the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Travel. Americans cannot rent a car in China without first getting a Chinese driver’s license.

How to Get an International Driver’s License

In the United States, there are only two automobile associations authorized to issue an International Driving Permit (IDP) or Inter-American Driving Permit (IADP):

AAA (American Automobile Association)
AATA (American Automobile Touring Alliance)

Don’t be fooled by scammers. Only the AAA and the AATA can issue IDPs and IADPs, and only in the country of residence. In other words, you need to obtain the permit before your trip.

FAQs for Getting an International Driver’s License

How much does it cost to acquire an IDP or IADP?

You’ll need to get passport-size photos plus pay a fee of $20 for either type of permit.

Do you need to take a test to get an IDP or IADP?

An IDP or IADP is not a driver’s license, merely a translation of your license. No written or driving skill test is required.

How long is an IDP or IADP valid?

Both types of permit are valid for one year.

What is the minimum age for an IDP?

You must also be at least 18 years of age and hold a valid drivers license issued by a state or territory of the United States.

What are other requirements for getting an IDP?

Your U.S.-issued license must be valid for at least six months from the issue date of your IDP. So if your license is going to expire within six months, you’ll need to renew it before applying for an international driving permit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best European road trip?

The best road trips are those where you have time to stop off at interesting places along the way rather than just drive from A to B as quickly as possible.

There are many great roads in Europe, but few are as beautiful as the route between Venice and Dubrovnik.

You will drive through stunning scenery most of your trip. There are numerous stops along the road to stop and take in all the sights.

Highlights include Torcello on Lake Garda’s islands Lido di Jesolo (or Torcello), the Dolomites of northern Italy, and Carcassonne in southern France, which is surrounded by medieval walls.

Do you need a car in Europe?

The best solution to your problem depends on where you live, what you do and how you think. A typical European city may have priorities that are different from one in a rural area.

You should also consider how long you plan to stay in each country. An economical car is not the best option if you plan on moving around often.

In most cases, buying used cars is more cost-effective than renting. There are many reasons why buying a used car in Europe is cheaper than renting one. You save money on fuel, parking fees and maintenance costs.

Another advantage is that your car allows you to drive safely.

There are many websites that provide useful information about European car rentals. Check out our recommendations.

What is the daily cost of a car rental in Europe?

We don’t know for sure but think it is between $100 – $200 daily.

We recommend that you rent at least two days because there are many attractions and activities.

If you intend to stay longer, you might be interested in a vehicle that costs around $2000-$3000.

You could even travel free around Europe!

You should also check if your credit card company offers any discounts on rentals.

What is the most accessible place to rent a car from?

Airports, rental agencies, and hotels are the most popular places to rent cars.

The most common way to find an airport location near you is by using online travel sites such as Expedia or Priceline.

If you are looking for rental options near your location, local companies might be worth looking into. These are often cheaper and easier to use than booking directly on an airline site.

You might want to consider public transport if you rent a car for less then two weeks. The city-wide bus passes allow unlimited travel within a specific area.

Renting a convertible is possible if you travel with children. Some people prefer them because they provide more protection for their kids.

Are credit cards allowed to rent a car?

Yes. But you need to be aware that additional fees may apply when your card is used abroad. Compare rates before making any reservations. Some websites will allow you to reserve without paying until after you arrive, saving you money.

You can drive a rental car from one country to another in Europe.

Hertz is a great place to rent if you plan on driving around Europe. It is cheaper than hiring an individual driver. They provide great coverage.

They offer unlimited mileage, so if you require a car to take you on a longer trip, you can rent more cars.

Can you rent a car in Portugal and drop it off in Spain?

This is possible. This is known as “car hire”. You can find many companies online that offer this service.

Only check to make sure they are licensed by Spanish and Portuguese authorities.

It is best to reach them via their websites. They should have all the information needed.

Statistics

I’d say 70% of the time, we have a hassle-free encounter, but there have been certain companies that we prefer not to use anymore. (theworldpursuit.com)
For example, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express earns 3 percent cash back on purchases at U.S. gas stations (terms apply), and the Citi Premier® Card earns three points per dollar at gas stations, too. (afar.com)
American Airlines, for example, offers AAdvantage members 35% off Budget and Avis — but you need to rent from an airport. (nerdwallet.com)
For canceled trips two days or shorter, a guest is charged 50% of one day’s trip cost. (insider.com)
The perks vary from partner to partner, but you can expect discounts of up to 35 percent on some rentals and the ability to earn anywhere from 50 bonus American AAdvantage miles per day or 500 per rental. (afar.com)

External Links

How To

Tips for booking a rental car in Europe

Europe can be divided into several countries and cities. The most popular destinations include Paris, London, Rome, Barcelona, Madrid, and Berlin. Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Avis are just a few of the car rental companies that offer worldwide services. These companies can be found at major airports, railway stations, and cities centers. They typically provide cars with drivers, fuel and other amenities. For as low as EUR 40 per hour, you can rent a Volkswagen Polo Polo from one day to two weeks.

The booking process can vary depending on the country you’re visiting. There are many payment options available in some countries, such as Spain. Sometimes the price includes taxes, fees and other charges. Check out the website of the car rental company before making any reservations. If you do not know where you want to go or if you simply prefer to drive yourself, check out these companies:Alamo,Avis,Europcar,Budget,National, andThrifty

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