International Driving License

Are you planning an overseas trip? Do you need to rent a car abroad but don’t have the necessary documents? Getting an International Driving License can be the perfect solution to legal problems. This document verifies that you are legally authorized to drive in countries worldwide and is valid for up to one year from the issue date.

With an International Driving License, your plans for adventure become easier, and your travel delays are hassle-free. Read on for more information about getting an International Driving license – everything from types available and eligibility requirements to application processes and tips.

What is an International Driving License

An International Driving License, also known as an IDL or International Driver’s Permit (IDP), is a permit that allows you to drive legally in countries all around the world. It confirms that you meet local driving regulations and can be used along with your standard driver’s license. In most cases, an IDL is valid for a year from the date of issuance.

Where to get an International Driver’s License

Most countries require an International Driving License before you can legally drive in their country. You may need to apply for one directly from the AAA branch in your home country or through a third-party rental company (e.g., AAA).

In some cases, it’s possible to get an International Driving License online. You must provide a valid driver’s license and passport, passport photos, and proof of residence.

In the United States, an International Driving License can be obtained from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or National Automobile Club (NAC). You will also need to show proof of identification and auto insurance.

You can apply for an International Driving License in Europe through the European Automobile Association (EAA).

In many countries, you may be able to purchase a short-term International Driving Permit that is valid for renting a car for up to one year. Local tourist agencies often issue these and allow you to drive in certain countries without a full license.

How to Get an International Driver’s License.

The steps for getting International Driver’s License are as follows:

Check Eligibility

You must meet certain age, residency, and other requirements to be eligible for an International Driving License. Contact your police officer or local licensing authority to learn more about international permit eligibility in your country, our state department, or region.

Choose a Type of International Driver’s License

You may want to get a regular International Driver’s License or an International Driving Permit, depending on your needs. A regular us driver’s license is usually valid in most countries, and an International Driving Permit functions more like an identification document. It can be used with your local driver’s license in some places.

Gather Required Documents

You must submit certain documents when you apply for your International Driver’s License. These may include a passport-style photo, a copy of your driver’s license from your home country, and other documentation required by the local international driver’s licenses and information license issuing authority.

Fill Out a Form

You must complete an application form after choosing which type of International Driver’s License to obtain. This form is typically available on the relevant third country’s government or region’s website and may require supporting documents such as a valid driver’s license and passport.

Submit Application

After gathering all the necessary documents and filling out the form, you must complete an application form and submit it to the relevant authority. Depending on the country or region, this may be done in person at a licensing office or online.

Make Payment

Once your application has been approved, you must pay for the International Driving License. Fees vary depending on the license type and other factors, such as validity duration.

Receive Your International Driver’s License

The final step in getting an International Driving License is receiving it in the mail or picking it up at a designated location. Be sure to keep your license safe – it should not be laminated or altered in any way.

Different types of International driving Licences

 

The main types of International Driving Licences are as follows:

The United Nations Convention on Road Traffic (1949) is the most commonly recognized international driving license, allowing you to drive legally in over 140 countries.

Regional Driving Permits: These international driving permits are a type of international license limited to certain regions and countries, such as the European Economic Area (EEA).

The Vienna Convention on Road Traffic (1968): This international driving permit is a valid form accepted in some countries but not all.

The Geneva Convention on Road Traffic (1949): This document is helpful for an international driving permit accepted in over 80 countries.

Eligibility Requirements for an International Driving License

To be eligible for an International Driving License, you need to meet the following requirements:

• You must be 18 or older (in some countries, this may vary).

• You need to have a valid driver’s license from your home country.

• Your driver’s license must be issued before the date of application for your IDP.

• You must have at least one year’s driving experience in your home country.

How to Renew International Driving License

The steps for renewing International Driving License are as follows:

Check for your expiry date: Make sure to check the expiration date of your current International Driving License before attempting to renew it. You can usually find this information on the backside of the document or in the top-right corner.

Gather required documents: The documents you’ll need to submit vary depending on the legal requirement of the country you travel to. Common documents include your current International Driving License, a valid passport, and proof of address.

Apply: Visit the local state Department of Motor Vehicles or an equivalent government office in the country where you are travelling and submit your renewal application. If submitting in person, bring the required documents listed above.

Pay renewal fee: In most cases, you’ll need to pay a small fee when applying for an International Driving License renewal. Knowing the amount beforehand is important so you can bring the correct amount and a valid cash or card payment form when visiting the DMV office.

Receive an updated license: Once your application is approved, you will receive an updated International Driving License valid for travel in the same country as of the issue of a completed application. It’s a good idea to always keep this document with you while travelling abroad.

Difference Between An International Driving Permit And An International Driver’s License

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that verifies your existing international driver’s license or license and provides you with additional recognition in certain countries. It does not replace your existing license, as it only serves to supplement it. An IDP is also valid for one year from the date of issue.

On the other hand, an International Driver’s or valid us driver’s License (IDL) is an official translation of your current driver’s license into multiple languages. It allows you to drive in foreign countries without taking an international driving test or getting an international driver’s permit. The IDL may be valid for up to three years and must be renewed upon expiration.

Rules Of The Road in Foreign Countries

Before applying for an International Driving License in the following countries, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the driving rules and regulations of the countries you will be visiting. Each country may have different laws, and some of these are as follows:

Speed limits: Depending on the country, speed limits may vary considerably. For example, in some countries, highways can have a top speed of 80 mph, while other countries may limit speeds to 55 mph.

Alcohol consumption: In many countries, you cannot drive if your blood alcohol level is over 0.08%.

Seat belts: It’s important to remember that wearing a seatbelt is mandatory on public transportation in most countries, and you must ensure that all passengers wear their seatbelts at all times.

Vehicle insurance: You may be required to purchase vehicle insurance before starting your journey – check the insurance coverage requirements in each country before applying for an International Driving License.

Cell phone usage: In some countries, using a cell phone while driving is illegal, and even the hands-free function may be forbidden.

FAQs

How much does a foreign driving license cost?

The cost of an International Driving License varies from country to country. In most cases, the typical fee is around $50. Depending on the issuing authority, additional fees may be required for document authentication or renewal.

How long can you drive with a foreign license in the US?

You can generally drive in the US for up to 90 days with an International Driving License. However, if you plan to stay in a new country for longer than this period, it is advisable to obtain a local driver’s license.

How long does an International driver’s permit last?

An International Driving License typically lasts one year from the date of issue. Sometimes, it may be a valid license for at least six months or up to three years, depending on the issuing authority. It is important to note that an International Driving License only supplements your local driver’s license and does not replace it.

Should I get an International Driver’s Permit?

An International Driving Permit is important for travellers planning to drive abroad. It allows you to drive legally in countries around the world. It can be particularly useful if you cannot obtain a full local license or driver’s license due to language or other barriers.

Conclusion

The International Driving License is an excellent choice for anyone who travels abroad and needs to drive. It provides the holder access to legal motor vehicle driving in any recognized country, keeping travellers safe on international trips. Depending upon where one intends to go, there may be practical advantages to obtaining an International Driving License from a country that recognizes it more readily.

Obtaining an International Driving License is straightforward, provided all of one’s documentation is correct and up-to-date. Lastly, always be sure to familiarise yourself with road safety rules and regulations for any foreign country you plan to travel to, as they may differ from yours.