The International Driver’s Permit (IDP) is a little known about (albeit, often required) tool for global travelers. It is very easy to plan a trip overseas and assume that your local country’s Driver’s License will suffice – however, it might not. In fact, making that assumption may land you in pretty hot water. That is where the International Driver’s Permit comes in and will potentially save you from a world (get it?) of trouble.
What is an International Driver’s Permit?
First of all, if you’re a frequent visitor on our site, you might know how much I love to drive. In fact, Road Trips are, quite possibly, my favorite mode of travel. I am a HUGE fan of being able to control my journey and detour as needed. That being said – a lot of travel outside of the United States (and some within) is very “drive-free friendly”. In other words, a lot of countries make it very easy to get around without needing a car or, subsequently, a driver’s license. Public transit across the globe is pretty solid, and, for the most part, only getting better. That being said – occasionally your travels require the use of an automobile and, thusly, someone to drive it. This is where the International Driver’s Permit comes in. But, what is it?
For starters, we can discuss what it is not – it is not a driver’s license. In fact, if you find yourself looking at an application for an “International Driver’s License” – take heed – as of writing, International Driver’s License in not a thing. No, the International Driver’s Permit is simply a widely accepted documentation (currently recognized in 174 countries and many major car rental companies, worldwide) that your local driver’s license was issued by a reputable source.
The bottom line, is that every country’s government agencies cannot be up-to-date on every other country’s driver’s license practices. The IDP fixes for that, by providing a near-universally accepted proof of issuance.
Do I Need an International Driver’s Permit?
The short answer is, yes – if you are reading this blog – it will likely behoove you to get an IDP. Not only will it potentially keep you out of trouble in a country that you do not call home, you may not even be able to rent a vehicle in your destination country without one. An IDP is relatively easy to obtain, both in cost and in effort, and the risks of not having one when it is needed far outweigh those of getting one and not needing it. One caveat is that an IDP is typically only valid for one year from being issued.
How Do I Obtain an International Driver’s Permit?
As noted earlier – applying and receiving an IDP is relatively easy in cost, effort and time. Especially relative to things like Global Entry registration, which, at time of writing, can take upwards of nine months.
For IDP, however, all you need to do is print and fill out an online application. Once completed, you just mail it in to the issuing company with $20, as well as 2 passport photos. In most cases, your IDP will be issued in no more than a couple of weeks.
From Where Can I Obtain an International Driver’s Permit?
This varies from country to country. You can only obtain an IDP from your country of origin, and only if you have a valid driver’s license. In the United States, for instance, the only two places to obtain your IDP would be through The American Automobile Association (AAA) and The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA).
Further, you can check The International Driving Permit website to see who manages IDP for you locally (as well as any other additional information and FAQs).
Final Thoughts
IDP is an important thig to plan for when traveling. It may go past a recommendation, in some cases, and be an actual requirement for getting a car. Know the laws of your destination and, if needed, make sure you have plenty of time to get one.
Have I missed anything? Let us know below!
