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International driving permit: Comprehensive guide
A guide to the international driving permit: What it is, why you need it, and how to get an international driving permit before traveling.
Driving is one of the best ways to explore a new destination. It gives you the freedom to visit smaller towns, and take scenic routes, whether that’s a scenic drive through Tuscany, a coastal road trip in Australia, or a few days of driving between meetings in London. Plus you get to travel on your own schedule. That’s where an international driving permit proves to be useful.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know, from what an international driving permit is, which countries require it, to how to get an international driving permit before your trip.
What is an international driving permit and why is it useful?
An international driving permit (shortened to IDP) is an official document that translates your domestic driver’s license into multiple languages. It allows authorities in other countries to quickly understand your driving credentials.
Think of it as a globally recognized translation of your license, not a replacement for it.
You still need to carry your original driver’s license. The permit simply makes it easier for local authorities, rental agencies, and insurance providers to verify that you are legally allowed to drive.
Here’s why many travelers choose to carry one:
- An IDP includes translations in several languages, making it easier for police or rental companies to understand your license.
- Many rental agencies ask for an IDP even in places where it’s not legally required.
- Some countries require it for tourists driving vehicles.
- It helps avoid confusion or delays during traffic stops.
Basically, it’s a document that can save you from travel headaches if you’re on a roadtrip.
Is an international driving license the same thing, you ask? Technically, there is no such thing as an international driving license. The correct term is international driving permit (IDP). It’s issued under international road traffic agreements and must always be used together with your original license.
So when you search online and come across websites or services that use the term “international driving license,” they actually mean international driving permit.
Who can obtain an international driving permit?
Anyone who meets these conditions can apply:
- Holds a valid driver’s license in their home country.
- Meets the minimum age requirement (18 or older).
- Applies through an authorized issuing agency.
The permit must always be issued in the same country that issued your driver’s license.
For example, if you hold a Canadian driver’s license, you must obtain your IDP in Canada before traveling abroad.
Does it expire?
Yes, an international driving permit has an expiration date. And its validity depends on the international convention used:
- 1949 Geneva Convention IDP: Valid for up to 1 year.
- 1968 Vienna Convention IDP: Valid for up to 3 years, but never longer than your driver’s license validity.
Having said that, note that many countries issue the one-year version.
Does one international driving permit work worldwide?
An IDP is recognized in over 150 countries that participate in international road traffic conventions. However, it does not automatically guarantee you the right to drive everywhere. Each country still decides:
- How long visitors can drive.
- Whether additional documents are required.
- Whether a local license must be obtained for longer stays.
That’s why it’s always smart to check the specific rules of your destination before traveling.
Which countries require an international driving permit?
Driving requirements vary widely around the world. Some countries require an international driving permit for foreign drivers, while others simply recommend it.
The United States of America
In the United States, many states, like Georgia, California, and New York, allow visitors to drive using their home country license. However, some states recommend carrying an IDP, especially if the license is not in English. Car rental companies may also ask for one as an additional form of identification.
The United Kingdom
You won’t need an international driving permit to drive in the UK if you hold a valid driver’s license from your home country and it’s written in English or uses Latin characters. However, if your license is in another language, carrying an IDP is strongly recommended. It can make things easier during police checks and is sometimes requested by car rental companies.
Australia
You need an IDP in Australia if your driver’s licence is not in English. Having said that, an IDP is strongly recommended to assist police and rental agencies with verification.
Canada
Canada has similar rules. Tourists can drive using their home license for short visits, but an IDP is strongly recommended when the license is not in English or French.
Apart from the above, there are several popular travel destinations that require or strongly recommend an international driving permit for visitors. These include Japan, Italy, Bahrain, Germany, Greece, Austria, Saudi Arabia, Poland, Spain, and Brazil.
How long can visitors drive with an IDP?
In most countries, tourists can drive for three months to one year using their license and an international driving permit. For instance:
- Countries like Australia, Malaysia, and Thailand allow you to drive using a foreign license and IDP for about 3 months.
- In Brazil and Germany, visitors may drive for 6 months with a foreign license and IDP.
- In the case of Japan, New Zealand, and the UK, an IDP allows visitors to drive for up to one year from the date of entry.
When you might not need an IDP
In some cases, countries have agreements that allow visitors to drive with their regular license alone. This often happens between countries with similar licensing standards or within regional groups like the European Union.
How to get an international driving permit
Getting an IDP is usually a simple process. Here’s what you should know before applying.
International driving permit requirements
While requirements can vary slightly by country, most applications ask for similar documents. Typically you’ll need:
- A valid domestic driver’s license.
- Passport-size photos.
- A completed application form.
- A small administrative fee.
Some issuing authorities may also ask for identification, such as a passport or national ID card.
If your license is temporary or provisional, you’ll need to wait until you receive the permanent version before applying.
Where can I get an international driving permit?
IDPs are issued only by official organizations authorized by national governments. These are usually:
- National automobile associations.
- Government transport agencies.
- Official motoring clubs affiliated with global organizations.
For example:
- In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) issues IDPs.
In the United Kingdom, permits are issued through designated PayPoint stores as well as designated Post Office branches. - In Australia and Canada, national automobile associations handle applications.
How long does it take to get an IDP?
The process is usually quick. In many countries, travelers can receive their permit on the same day if they apply in person at an authorized office. Mail applications, however, may take a few days to a week, depending on processing times and postal delivery.
The reason the entire process is relatively fast is simple: The IDP is not a new driving test or license. It’s essentially a standardized translation of your existing license. So once your documents are verified, the permit can be issued quickly.
How much does an IDP cost?
The cost of an international driving permit is pretty modest. For example:
- In the United States, the permit costs $20.
- In the UK, it costs approx. $7.5 (£5.5)
- In Canada, it costs approx. $23.5 (CAD 32)
- And in Australia, an IDP costs $37.5 (AUD 53)
Driving abroad made easier
Travel is all about freedom. The freedom to explore new cities, take scenic drives, and discover places that tour buses never reach. And an international driving permit helps in making all of that possible. This globally recognized translation of your driver’s license allows authorities and rental agencies around the world to understand your credentials. The best part? Getting one is simple. All it usually takes is a valid license, a short application, and a small fee. So if driving is part of your travel plans, take a day or two before your trip to arrange your international driving permit. It’s a small step that can make your next adventure a lot easier, and a lot more fun.
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