If you’re planning a trip abroad and want to rent a car, you might be wondering: “What about the International Driver’s License?” As to whether this is possible will depend on the following factors; the country you want to visit, the number of days you wish to spend there, and more importantly the traffic laws of that country. In this article, we’ll explore what an International Driver’s License – also referred to as an International Driving Permit or IDP – is, when you might need one, and how to obtain one.
What is an International Drivers License?
An International Driver’s License is essentially an identity card that is a translation of a driver’s license from a particular country in several other languages. It is not a separate license but a legal translation of your existing driver’s license. It can be very useful if you’re planning to travel to a country in which you know little language spoken or understood. The IDP is accepted in more than 150 countries and is usually accepted for car hire and by police.
When is an International Driver’s License Required?
The necessity of the International Driver’s License depends on the country you are going to. Some countries do not need one if you hold a license from your home country as well as some of them. However, it is strongly advised that certain countries insist on it more so if your license employs non-Roman alphabets such as Arabic, Cyrillic, or Chinese amongst others. Here’s when you might need it:
- Renting a Car: Most of the global car hire firms will request for an IDP before you take their cars for a drive particularly if you are in a country where English is not widely spoken.
- Driving in Non-English Speaking Countries: An IDP is especially useful where the language of the country you are visiting does not address or write in English or the Roman script and you anticipate some issues with the police.
- Extended Travel: Certain countries expect foreigners to have an IDP in addition to a domestic license if they intend to live in the country for longer than three months.
International Driver’s License Required Countries
Many countries, for instance, demand that foreigners hold an IDP in order to legally drive in the country in question. Here are a few examples:
- European Union (EU): In many European countries you can drive with your normal driving license. However, if your license is in a language other than English, you may need an IDP.
- Japan: Japan is one of the countries that are very particular with the requirements of foreign visitors to possess an IDP. Without it, renting a car and driving can be a problem.
- Australia: In some states of Australia you may need an IDP if your license is not in English or is not from an English-speaking country.
- Mexico and Brazil: As for the driving, an American license is valid in these countries, but it’s always wise to have an IDP just in case of misunderstandings with the police.
To the extent possible, one should try to look at the requirements that are needed in the country one is intending to visit before traveling.
International Driver’s Permit – How to Get It
Getting an International Driver’s License is often no big deal. Here’s what you typically need to do:
- Check Eligibility: You must have a valid driver’s license in your home country; Some countries also have some age restrictions.
- Apply Online or In Person: In most locations, you can fill out an online application for an IDP or go to a local automobile association, for instance, the American Automobile Association or the National Automobile Club in America.
- Provide Documentation: All you will be required to produce is a photograph, a copy of your current driver’s license, and an application fee.
- Receive Your IDP: The process usually does not last more than a few days; your IDP will be sent to you by post. It’s valid for one year.
Do You Always Need an International Driver’s License?
Sometimes, the International Driver’s License may not be required at all. For example, if the places you intend to visit are countries like Canada or UK and your driver’s license is issued in United States, then you will not be expected to procure an IDP. But rules are not set in concrete and one should always refer to the current requirements before going out on a trip.
If you are planning to drive in an EU member country and your license is issued from any EU country, you don’t require an IDP unless you are going to drive in some specific countries. But it is always useful to have one especially in an emergency situation or when you need to talk to people who do not understand you.
What Can Happen If You Drive Without an IDP?
Many disappointments are imminent if one drives a car using an International Driver’s License in a country that approves the document. You could be charged some amount of money, arrested, or even your rented car could be confiscated. Sometimes, your car insurance will not be valid and you will be left with no coverage if you do not present certain papers. I always recommend that you should have your IDP alongside your home country’s driver’s license when driving in another country to avert such inconveniences.
Do I Need an IDP for Short Trips?
In other words, depending on how long you’ll be renting a car and where you are traveling, you might not need an IDP. But, to have one can be very reassuring. That way if one is detained by the police or if one has an accident it is quite convenient to reduce the language barrier. In some countries that have very rigid laws governing the use of automobiles on roads, an IDP might be mandatory even to visitors for a short period.
Final Thoughts
Whether or not you will require an International Driver’s License depends with the country to be visited and how long one is planning to stay there. Although most countries will let you drive using your home country license, IDP is safer to have. To ensure that you do not run into trouble with the law or confusion when you transfer your license to another country, it is always wise to make sure that your license is acknowledged in the particular country. Before going anywhere, it is wise to know the laws of the country you intend to visit and in case of any uncertainties, get an IDP to have a less hassle some time when driving in the foreign country.
