Formats of IDP

International Driving Permits (IDP) are governed by two international treaties, the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic and the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, signed by over 150 countries. Depending on where you plan to visit, you may have to obtain a specific type of IDP.

1949 Format IDP

The 1949 format is for use in those countries that subscribe to the 1949 agreement. This permit is typically blue or black with white lettering and includes information like your name, address, photographic image, and signature.

1968 Format IDP

This version is acceptable in any country that subscribes to the 1968 convention. It looks very similar to the 1949 model but has several additional elements printed on it, such as a date stamp and certification seal.

List of countries accepting the 1949 IDP format

• Austria

• Belgium

• Croatia

• Czech Republic

• Finland

• Germany

• Greece

• Italy

• Netherlands

List of countries accepting the 1968 IDP format:

• Australia

• Canada

• France

• Ireland Japan

• New Zealand

• South Africa

• Spain

• United Kingdom

• United States

Why Carry an IDP

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is an official document allowing drivers to drive in many countries worldwide. It can be obtained from automobile associations and is valid for 12 months. Carrying an IDP when traveling abroad offers several advantages, including:

Peace of Mind

An IDP provides peace of mind when driving in a foreign country. It is an official document verifying your driver’s license and is recognized by police in most countries worldwide. This means you can drive confidently, knowing you have all the proper documentation should you ever encounter law enforcement abroad.

Convenience

Having an IDP allows for convenience regarding long road trips or scenic drives in unfamiliar territory. Driving without one can lead to unnecessary hassles and delays should you be stopped by police while driving abroad. The permit also eliminates the need to obtain separate car insurance for each country visited during your travels.

Language Barriers

An IDP provides a universal language- even if a language barrier prevents communication with law enforcement, you can present the IDP as a form of identification and proof of your driver’s license. This is especially helpful in countries where English is not widely spoken.

Insurance

Having an IDP can also provide insurance protection in an accident. It can be used as proof of financial responsibility, as some countries require.

Needed for Rental cars

Finally, an IDP is often needed to rent a car in certain countries. Most car rental companies will not allow you to drive their vehicles without one, so having one beforehand can save you time and money.

Carrying an International Driving Permit is essential when traveling overseas and driving in unfamiliar countries. This document can provide peace of mind and allow smooth and hassle-free experiences during long road trips or scenic drives. Be sure to obtain one before you go!

Eligibility Criteria for Getting International Driving Permit

• Be at least 18 and have a valid driver’s license from your home country.

• Have the necessary paperwork.

• Paid the applicable fees associated with obtaining the permit.

Documents Required For Application

When applying for an International Driving Permit, you must have some documents ready. These include the following:

• A Valid Driver’s License: You’ll need your current valid license or international driving licence to apply for an IDP. This will prove that you are a licensed driver eligible for an IDP.

• Passport-sized Photographs: Two passport-sized photographs must be included in the application. These photos must be recent and should show your face in full view.

• Proof of Address: You must provide proof that you reside at your current address. This can include a utility bill, bank statement, or other document proving that the address you provided during the application is valid.

• Insurance Coverage: You must provide proof of insurance coverage when applying for an IDP. Insurance is important when driving overseas and should be obtained before leaving your home country.

• Application Fee: An application fee will be required for processing the IDP. The amount of this fee will vary depending on your country of residence.

By having all of these documents ready beforehand, you can ensure that the process goes as quickly and smoothly as possible!

How Do You Get an International Driver’s Permit

There are two main ways to apply for an IDP:

• by mail

• in person

How To apply in person at a Branch:

• Pay a visit to the branch.

• Bring the required documents, such as your valid driver’s license, two passport-style photos, and payment for the IDP fee.

• Fill out the application form at the office or online before visiting.

• If you complete an application online, bring the printed copy when visiting your local office.

How To apply by mail:

• Gather all necessary documents, such as your valid driver’s license from the same country, two passport-style photos, and payment for the IDP fee.

• Download and print out an International Driving Permit (IDP) application form from the AAA website and fill it out.

• Mail your completed form, documents, and payment to the address provided on the application.

• Once your application is approved, your international driving permit issued will be mailed back within 5-10 business days.

No matter which method you choose for applying for an International Driving Permit (IDP), you must have a valid driver’s license to qualify. An IDP can provide extra peace of mind while driving abroad, so take the time before heading overseas to apply! With these steps in hand, you’ll be able to get an IDP with ease and convenience.

A Warning About International Driving Permit (also known as International Driving License) Unofficial Sellers

Before applying for an IDP, staying aware of potential risks associated with unofficial sellers is important. These individuals may claim to provide an International Driving License translated at a discounted rate, but authorities do not recognize such documents, which can lead to legal issues if caught using one. Ensure you purchase from a legitimate source to ensure your safety and security while on the road.

Validity of IDP and How to Renew

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a valid document for up to one year from the issue date. To keep your IDP valid, it must be renewed annually. You can renew your permit by applying online or visiting the relevant issuing authority in your home country before you travel overseas.

Be sure to check with the motor vehicle department in the country you are visiting to ensure that your IDP will be accepted. Also, double-check that all documents are current; this includes having an unexpired driver’s license in your home country and ensuring the IDP has not expired.

FAQs

Am I required to have an IDP in foreign countries?

Depending on the country you visit, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may or may not be needied. Before departure, you should review with the local traffic authority to determine if an IDP is necessary.

I am traveling to South America, so which permit should I issue?

You must check the specific traffic regulations in the country you plan to visit. An International Driving Permit is an authorized translation of your existing driver’s license into numerous languages and is accepted by many countries worldwide. However, a national or regional permit, English language driver’s license, and inter american driving permit may also be needed.

Can You Drive With A Foreign License In The US?

No, you cannot drive with a foreign license in the US. You must have an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a valid driver’s license from your home country. Someone with a valids foreign driver’s license may drive in the United States for up to one year as long as they have their passport and visa/immigration records.

How Long Can You Drive With A Foreign License?

The length of time that you can drive with a foreign license varies by country, but generally, in the united nations, it is valids for up to one year. After that, you must apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) or obtain a driver’s license from your residence state.

Conclusion

The International Driving Permit is essential for those traveling abroad who intend to drive. With one in possession, international drivers can enjoy greater peace of mind and easy access abroad. It’s important to remember that IDPs do expire and need to be renewed. Some countries even require a physically valid credit card and permit as proof of identity. But as long as travelers research eligibility criteria before departure and obtain their IDP directly from a government-issuing body, they should have no trouble hitting the road.