IDP Application Process

Do you need to travel abroad and want to drive while you’re there? In most countries, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to legally drive. Getting an IDP is relatively simple if you meet the eligibility criteria and understand the required documents.

In this blog post, we will break down the entire IDP application process for your convenience, step by step, so that you can ensure everything goes according to plan when driving on international roads. Keep reading below to learn more!

What Is an International Driving Permit 

The International Driving Permit (IDP) is an authorized document that grants you legal driving privileges in most countries. It is issued by countries’ governments that have signed the 1949 United Nations Convention on Road Traffic. Serving as an additional form of identification alongside your driver’s license, the IDP is accepted in over 150 countries worldwide.

It is the official translation of your driver’s license in 10 languages, including English, Spanish, Russian, and Chinese. This makes it easier for authorities in foreign countries to understand the information on your driver’s license.

Reasons To Get an IDP

The International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that enables legal driving in numerous countries globally. While not mandatory everywhere, possessing an IDP can help overcome language barriers and offer additional assurance when driving in foreign countries.

Here are the most important reasons to get an IDP:

Valid In Most Countries 

The most important reason travelers should get an International Driving Permit is because it will allow them to legally drive in almost any country they visit.

An IDP is recognized by over 150 countries worldwide, including many European nations, Canada, Mexico, and more. This means the permit could be useful when traveling to any country. Also, having an IDP is usually cheaper and easier than obtaining a local license in the country you’re visiting.

Reduces Language Barrier 

The second key benefit of owning an International Driving Permit is that it can help reduce language barriers when driving abroad. Most IDPs are written in nine different languages, so no matter where you travel, you should be able to find someone who can understand your permit.

Having this document with you can make it much easier for locals and law enforcement officials to identify who you are – saving time and ensuring everyone knows what they need to do.

Might Be Needed To Rent a Car 

Finally, some car rental companies may require you to have an International Driving Permit to rent a vehicle. If you plan on renting a car while traveling, checking with the company beforehand and seeing their requirements is important. Knowing about this requirement beforehand can save you from having any last-minute issues when renting a car abroad.

When to apply for the IDP

It is important to apply for an IDP before you leave the country, as it can take some time to process and be issued. It would be best if you submitted your application two months before departure.

Generally articulating, the international driving permit will last up to one year, depending on the country you are traveling to, so make sure to plan consequently.

Eligibility Criteria for 0btaining an International Driving Permit

To obtain an IDP, you need to fulfill specific eligibility requirements:

1 Age requirement

You must be 18 years or older.

2 Valid driver’s license

You must possess a valid driver’s license in your same country(existing state driving license).

3 Passport validity

Your passport should be valid.

4 Residency duration

You should have resided in your country of residence for at least six months before applying.

Documents Required for Application

To complete the IDP application process, you must gather the following documents:

• A duly filled International Driving Permit Application Form

• Two recent passport photos of yourself

• Your valid US driver’s license or state driving license

• A photocopy of your driver’s license (both front and back) from your country of residence

• Payment for the required fee

How to Apply in Person

Prepare Required Documents

Before applying for an International Driving Permit (IDP), you must meet the eligibility criteria and gather the necessary documents. You will need your valid driver’s license issued from your home country or a valid form of your current driver’s license, two passport-sized photos, a copy of your passport, and payment for the applicable fee.

Find an Issuing Authority

Once you have all the required documents, you can find an issuing authority in your area to submit your application. The issuing authorities vary by country, so look into the specifics before scheduling an appointment or submitting a form online.

Submit Application

Depending on your issuance authority, you may either fill out a paper form or submit one online. Double-check all of the information you provide before submitting your application.

Receive Permit

After confirming that your application is complete and accurate, the issuing authority will send you a physical copy of your International Driving Permit (IDP) in the mail, or they may provide a digital version for printing. The IDP will include details about the duration and use conditions, so read it carefully.

Following these steps, you can obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) for safe and legal travel on international roads.

How to Apply by Mail

Gather Your Required Documents

The first step to obtaining your International Driving Permit is to obtain the necessary application documents.

Submit the Application Form

Once you’ve gathered all your required documentation, you must submit your application form via mail or online (depending on your chosen option). If submitting by expedited return mail service, double-check that all information is accurate and complete according to the guidelines stated in the form before sending it off.

Pay for the International Driving Permit

The cost of an IDP varies depending on your country. You can pay your application fee by check or money order. Ensure to include this payment and your application form when sending it through the mail.

Wait for Processing

Once you have submitted your application and paid any necessary fees, all left to do is wait! Processing and approving an IDP application usually takes about 4-6 weeks. You will be notified once approved and can begin driving overseas with your new permit!

Following these steps should ensure a smooth experience when applying for an international driving permit.

FAQs

Which U.S. States Require an International Driving Permit for Foreign Visitors?

Only Arkansas and Hawaii mandate foreign visitors an International Driving Permit (IDP). Nevertheless, it is advisable to verify the regulations of individual states, such as through the American Automobile Association or American Automobile Touring Alliance, before your trip, as these requirements may undergo modifications.

Which countries require IDP?

Some countries that require an International Driving Permit (IDP) include Japan, Brazil, and the United Arab Emirates. These countries have specific regulations that mandate the use of an IDP alongside a valid driver’s license from your home country.

Is an IDP required to drive in foreign countries?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually required when driving in a foreign country. It is an official translation of your driver’s license into 10 languages and is widely recognized by many countries. Regardless, reviewing the specific regulations and prerequisites of the country you visit before you travel is crucial, as they can differ.

Can you drive in another country without having an IDP?

Driving with an IDP is generally admissible in most foreign countries. However, verifying the specific regulations of the country you plan to visit is important, as laws may vary.

What’s the difference between an international driving permit and a driver’s license?

An international driving permit is a document that rephrases your driver’s license into 10 languages, enabling you to drive in various foreign countries. In contrast, an international driver’s license is a separate document obtained from your home country’s motor vehicle agency, allowing you to drive solely in the U.S. and Canada.

How Long Is an IDP Valid For?

The validity of international driving permits is typically one year from the date of issuance, but it is essential to verify the specific regulations of your destination country as they may vary.

I am a foreign driver traveling to the U.S. Can I obtain an IDP in the U.S.?

No, you cannot obtain an international driver’s permit in the U.S. You must have your IDP issued from the country of your nationality or residence.

Conclusion

To sum up, the International Driving Permit (IDP) application process requires careful consideration and preparation. It is important to remember that an IDP does not replace the necessity for a valid driver’s license in the destination country, but rather grants the holder an additional layer of security when driving abroad. Lastly, two different methods of submitting IDP applications are in person or by mail.