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INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT

Have you ever dreamed of being able to drive through the countryside of another country? Or perhaps explore a new city by car on your schedule? An International Driving Permit (IDP) from the American Automobile Association (AAA) is all you need to make those dreams come true.

With an IDP, you can legally and safely rent cars in most countries worldwide and experience the thrill of driving in different areas and cultures. As AAA explains, IDPs “serve as proof that individuals possess valid driver’s licenses issued by their home states or countries which validate their identity” and enable foreign authorities “to quickly recognize foreign license holders for up to six months to one year if they are stopped while driving in other nations.

An IDP provides valuable assistance should you require medical care due to an accident while abroad”.

International Driving Permit (IDP)

An IDP is an official document that certifies that you are licensed to drive in your home country. It enables foreign law enforcement, companies, and other local authorities, to recognize the validity of your driver’s license when driving abroad.

An International Driving Permit is necessary for anyone renting a car or driving in another country. The American Automobile Association (AAA) is one of the few organizations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue IDPs to foreign nationals. All AAA offices across the U.S. offer International Driving Permits, which can be ordered online or over the phone.

You can easily obtain an IDP for a small fee, allowing you to drive safely and legally in most countries worldwide. So if you’re ready to explore new places behind the wheel, get your International Driving Permit from AAA first

Countries Accepting Internation Driving Permits

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a great tool for travellers who want to explore the world by car. IDPs are accepted in over 150 countries worldwide, allowing you to easily explore many places.

The IDP translates your driver’s license into ten languages, making it easier for foreign car rental agencies, car companies, and law enforcement officials in foreign countries to understand your driver credentials. Depending on where you’re travelling, an IDP could be required by law or recommended. Sometimes, an IDP may be necessary to rent a car or enter certain areas.

Most European countries accept international driving permits, and countries in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and South America. You can use your IDP alongside a valid U.S. to drive legally in most states and provinces in countries that require these regions.

Requirements for international driver’s licenses may vary from country to country, so check the laws of the particular area before you travel. In North America, IDPs are only accepted in Canada. Mexico does not accept International Driving Permits; however, they recognize the valid license of U.S. drivers with attached visas.

In the United States, IDPs are also not recognized by law; however, it is recommended that travellers with an IDP carry an original passport, pictures of their home driver’s license, and an original copy of the international driver’s permit itself, which can be obtained through AAA.

How To Get An International Driving Permit

An International Driving Permit is an essential travel document for any motorist looking to drive in another country. It verifies that you hold a valid international driver’s license and is recognized by most countries worldwide.

With an IDP, you can rent cars in different cities or easily cruise around the countryside. Contact your local AAA office or apply online today to get your permit. The steps for getting an International Driving Permit are as follows:

• Contact your local AAA office or online to apply for the permit. You must provide your driver’s license, two passport-sized photos, and a signed application form.

• Pay the required fee, which varies depending on where you live, but it should be around $20-40 USD.

• Receive your permit. It will likely be mailed, but some AAA offices may allow you to pick it up in person.

• Ensure the IDP is valid for the country/countries you visit. It must also be accompanied by your driver’s license at all times.

Get ready to explore your destination of choice! With an IDP, you can rent a car with peace of mind knowing that you’re following the laws and regulations.

Eligibility Criteria For International Driving Permit:

An IDP is a must-have for international travellers who plan to drive. However, certain eligibility criteria must be met to acquire an IDP from AAA. To be eligible for an International Driving Permit, you must:

• Be 18 years of age or older

• Be a full-time resident of the United States

• Hold a valid U.S. driver’s license

• Have two passport-sized photos

• Provide proof of identity (e.g., passport) and residence (e.g., utility bill) with your application form

• Pay the applicable fee at the time of application

How To Use Your IDP In Different Countries

Get an IDP

Your first step is to obtain an IDP from AAA before you leave on your trip. You will need two passport-sized photos, a copy of both sides of the passport photos, your driver’s license, and payment for the permit.

Check Visa requirements

Before leaving, check the visa requirements for your destination country to ensure you have the appropriate paperwork.

Research local driving laws

Once you arrive in your destination country, it’s important to research and understands the local driving laws and regulations. Be sure to familiarize yourself with any road traffic signs or markings that may differ from what you are used to.

Follow the car rental companies and car rental companies guidelines.

Each rental car company will likely have specific policies regarding permits, so read them carefully before signing a contract or getting into a vehicle.

Carry IDP at all times

Your IDP must be renewed yearly, but it should accompany you when renting a car abroad. Always have two passport photos of it on you as proof of your valid international driver’s license.

What If YOU Lose Your IDP Or It Gets Stolen

If you happen to lose your IDP or it gets stolen, don’t panic. Some steps can be taken to obtain a replacement.

• Contact the local police station to file an official report.

• Contact the AAA branch of the AAA for help if necessary. They provide assistance and advice about what documents to bring when requesting a new permit abroad. As the issuing authority of IDPs, they can also reissue a new one if needed.

• Contact your local license or home country’s motor vehicle licensing agency; they may have additional requirements before issuing a replacement permit.

• The process varies depending on your visiting country, but all are relatively straightforward to follow.

Benefits Of Having An International Driving Permit

The benefits of having an International Driving Permit are as follows:

• It allows you to travel with peace of mind, knowing your IDP will be recognized in most countries worldwide.

• It can save you time and money when renting cars abroad by avoiding the need for extra paperwork or waiting for approvals from rental car companies.

• It provides a full translation of your driver’s license into ten languages, so anyone who needs to check it can easily understand it.

• It is accepted as an official identification document in nearly all European countries, including the United Kingdom, France, and Germany.

• The permit is valid for one year from the date of issuance so that you can use it for multiple trips throughout the year.

• It is easy to obtain, with applications processed in less than 30 minutes at any local AAA office.

• In many countries, you must be accompanied by an IDP to rent a car or motorbike, so having one will save you the hassle and worry when abroad.

• The permit cost of $78 is relatively small compared to the peace of mind it offers your family while travelling abroad.

• Your valid driver’s license remains valid while using the IDP – no extra tests or exams are necessary for its use.

• An IDP provides extra protection if you get into an accident as it clearly outlines your personal information, valid driver’s license, and the co-signer who issued it. This can be useful if you contact authorities or obtain legal assistance abroad.

FAQs

Who can get an IDP? 

Anyone with a valid driver’s license from the United States, Canada, or Puerto Rico can apply for an IDP.

What information is on an IDP?

An IDP contains personal information and an international code that identifies the type of vehicles you may drive, such as a car, motorcycle, or truck. It also includes information from your home license translated into ten languages.

How long does it take to get an IDP?

Applying for an IDP online usually takes 5-7 business days to receive your permit. If you apply in person, it can take up to 14 days.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in my home country?

No, an IDP is only valid for foreign nationals driving outside the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. It is not for driving in your home country or any other country that does not recognize it.

What must I do to drive in a country requiring an International Driving Permit?

To drive in a foreign country that requires an IDP, you must obtain an IDP from the AAA before you leave the same country. You must also carry your home driver’s license with you at all times while driving abroad. Depending on the country you’re visiting, you may need to purchase additional insurance or a special permit.

Conclusion

Having an International Driving Permit is a great way to travel across other countries and adds an extra layer of security to ensure you can drive legally abroad. It is usually quite easy to obtain and is accepted in many countries worldwide, so if you plan to drive abroad, it’s worth considering getting an IDP.

Consider the eligibility criteria and documents you must provide, and ensure you keep your IDP safe while traveling, as replacements might not be easily achievable. By doing so, you can leave the stress of worrying about your journey and focus on enjoying it to its fullest when abroad.