

Those countries only accept the less common IADP. While the IDP is accepted in more than 150 countries around the world, some countries in South America-most notably Brazil and Uruguay-never signed onto the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Travel. Heading to South America? You may be better off with the IADP (Inter-American Driving Permit). Renting a Car in South America: Get an IADP or IDP You don’t want to be at a traffic stop in a foreign country where your U.S.-issued driver’s license is not valid on its own. You, the renter, are responsible for staying within the laws of any countries you visit. but drive through the Eurotunnel to mainland Europe, you will need an IDP. If you’re renting overseas, it always pays to read the fine print. You provide this information before completing the reservation, but many renters don’t read them. In addition, rental car companies outline license requirements in their booking conditions and rules. (Technically, your state-issued driver’s license in English will be accepted as long as you have a notarized translation, and that’s exactly what an International Driving Permit is.)
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But most other popular European destinations such as Italy, France, Germany, and Spain require that you also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your regular driver’s license. Renting a Car in Europe: Get an IDPĪ few English-speaking European countries-England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Ireland-recognize U.S. Before your trip, check the list of countries on the application form to see which permit you need. In some countries in South America, you’ll need an IADP. In general, if you are traveling outside of North America, it’s usually a good idea to get an IDP. Countries That Require an International Driving Permit When driving outside your own country, you carry this permit along with your regular driver’s license as a legal pairing of identity-proving documentation.

The International Driving Permit has been around since the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Travel, which set up a framework to issue driving licenses in many languages. Information appears in 10 languages-which is key if you are ever have to present your ID in a foreign country.Īsk AutoSlash for a Quote on a Cheap Car Rental It contains your name, photo and typical driver information. This small paper booklet simply serves as a translation of your valid U.S.-issued driver’s license. An IDP always speaks the language, even if you don’t. Do you travel internationally? If you plan to rent a car overseas, your trusty state driver’s license may not get you very far.īefore you leave home, get an International Driving Permit (IDP), a valid form of identification in 150 countries that translates your information into multiple languages.
