What’s An International Driving Permit

Peter Buscemi July 22, 2023 0

What’s An International Driving Permit – AAA is one of only two private entities in the U.S. authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue an IDP.

Your IDP is a valid form of identification in 150 countries worldwide and contains your name, photo and driver information.

It translates your identification information into 10 languages — so it speaks the language even if you don’t.

Most countries highly recommend an International Driving Permit.

Another country cannot issue an IDP to be used in conjunction with a US driver’s license.

An IDP accompanying a US driver’s license can only be issued in the USA.

What’s An International Driving Permit

Your IDP is a valid form of identification in 150 countries worldwide and contains your name, photo and driver information.

It translates your identification information into 10 languages — so it speaks the language even if you don’t.

Most countries highly recommend an International Driving Permit.

Another country cannot issue an IDP to be used in conjunction with a US driver’s license.

An IDP accompanying a US driver’s license can only be issued in the USA.

What’s An International Driving Permit – Is an IDP Required in Foreign Countries

There are some countries that do not recognize a drivers license from the United States, but officially recognize an IDP (e.g. Hungary).

There are other countries that honor a United States drivers license, but require a local language translation (e.g. Spain).

The IDP can satisfy these types of situations.

Keep in mind, however, that while a certain country’s government may not require an IDP, car rental companies located in that country, such as Hertz, may require an IDP to rent a car.

Purchasing an IDP prior to departure can save a lot of potential hassles.

NOTE: If you are living permanently in a foreign country, even though you may still hold a U.S. state issued driver’s license, you must abide by local driver’s licensing laws.

Many countries require that you obtain a local license once you take up employment and/or residency.

What’s An International Driving Permit

The term ‘International Driving Permit’ (IDP) is often used interchangeably with ‘International Driver’s License,’ but it is important to note that the IDP is not a license.

Your IDP does not attest to your driving skill or ability.

The International Driving Permit (IDP) is a permit that must be used with your legal US driver’s license.

You can think of your International Driving Permit as a translation of your US driver’s license so that Italian authorities can get your important information from your driver’s license while you’re in Italy.

Car Rental Pick-up

While plenty of people will tell you that you don’t need it when you pick up your rental car, many companies DO require it and explicitly state they do in the rental terms.

You may not be asked for it, but if you are, and you don’t have it, you will not be able to rent your car.

Can I Rent a Scooter Without an International Driving Permit

Officially you can’t drive a scooter or car without International driving permit, because Italian police can fine you and obligate you to pay a sum of minimal 400 €.

Apart the fine, insurance doesn’t cover you, in case of accident if you drive without a valid driving license and International driving permit, insurance can decide to don’t cover damages against third party.

If you have a passenger, he will be not covered by insurance in case of accident.

Usually scooter rental company don’t speak about these risks.

Traffic Accidents and Violations

You will also need your IDP and driver’s license if you’re in a traffic accident or pulled over for a traffic violation.

Fines For Not Having an IDP in Italy

Italian law states that if your license is not from an EU country or European Economic zone, you are required to have an International Driving Permit (legal translation of your driver’s license).

How to Apply For An International Driving Permit

To apply in person at a AAA Branch.

Download and fill out an application (new tab), and bring it to your nearest AA branch.