Who Can Get An IDP?

Are you planning a trip abroad and need to drive a rental car? You may want to get an International Driving Permit (IDP), valid worldwide.

Whether you’re going on vacation or relocating for work, an IDP can make your travels less stressful and more convenient. But who is eligible for this important document?

In this blog post, we’ll explore the requirements of getting an IDP so that easy traveling overseas will be no problem!

What Is an International Driving Permit

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is an official document that enables you to legally drive in countries that recognize it. 

It’s issued by the United Nations/Vienna Convention on Road Traffic and serves as a translation of your original driver’s license information into nine languages, making it easier for local authorities to interpret. These nine languages include English, French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, Arabic, etc.

An IDP is a valuable asset when traveling abroad as it is an additional form of identification for renting cars, getting roadside assistance, and more. It can also help you avoid potential fines or penalties if you’re pulled over by law enforcement in another country. 

Reasons To Get an IDP

Valid in Most Countries

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates information contained on your driver’s license into ten different languages, and it’s recognized in over 150 countries worldwide. This makes it much easier for foreign police officers to read and verify your driving credentials, ensuring you won’t be stopped or fined for not having the proper documentation.

Reduces Language Barrier

An IDP also serves as proof of identity when traveling abroad, even if you don’t speak the language of the country you’re visiting. It can help make communication with authorities smoother by removing potential language barrier issues.

Needed To Rent a Car

A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a car in most countries, but some places may also require an IDP. Even if you don’t need one to drive, it can be beneficial to have one just in case the rental car agencies ask for proof of your identity or credentials.

Peace Of Mind

Having an International Driving Permit means you won’t have to travel out legalities or get a pTravelover while driving abroad. You’ll know you have all the documents needed and can focus on enjoying your trip instead.

Makes Travel Easier

An IDP also makes Travel easier since you’ll have everything required for international driving without worrying about the language barrier. This document also allows you to avoid any issues related to local laws or customs, which can be particularly helpful if you relocate for work.

Who Can Get An IDP

An official document driver can acquire an International Driving Permit (IDP) to operate a vehicle in foreign countries. This can be obtained from the Automobile Association of one’s home country, necessitating a valid driver’s license and other supporting documents.

It is important to note that an IDP is not a substitute for identification but rather an authorized translation of the existing valid license into multiple languages. This facilitates communication with law enforcement officers while abroad.

To apply for an IDP, certain requirements must be met. Let’s examine who is eligible to obtain an IDP and the steps they need to take:

Requirements for obtaining an IDP:

• The applicant must be 18 years of age or older.

• The applicant must possess a valid current driver’s license from the same country of residence(existing state driving license) or a valid u.s driver’s license.

• Two passport photos taken within the last six months, complying with the specifications set by the Automobile Association, must be provided.

• Proof of current address (such as a utility bill or bank statement) needs to be submitted.

• The applicable fee for an IDP, determined by the local Automobile Association, must be paid.

Accepted License Types for an IDP:

While most countries accept valid licenses for IDP applications, some exceptions exist. It is advisable to consult the local Automobile Association to confirm the eligible license types. Generally, the following licenses are typically accepted:

• A full European Union or EEA license.

• International driver’s license are from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and most states in the United States.

• An International Driving Permit issued by a country other than the applicant’s own (if applicable).

Additional Requirements for Non-EU Citizens:

In certain cases, non-EU citizens might need to provide additional documents to obtain an IDP. This usually includes proof of residence abroad and a valid visa, if applicable. To ensure clarity regarding any additional documents that may be necessary, it is recommended to contact the local Automobile Association.

How to Get an International Driving Permit

Check Your Eligibility

IDPs are generally available to those who are 18 or older and hold a valid driver’s license. You must also be a citizen of the country where you’re applying for an IDP, and some countries require that your driver’s license be issued within the past year. Check with your local authorities for any specific requirements before applying.

Get Required Documents

Most countries require two passport-sized photos, a copy of your valid driver’s license issued, and other forms of identification such as a birth certificate or passport. Be sure to ask what documents are needed when you apply for an IDP so that you have everything ready ahead of time.

Submit Your Application

Once you’ve gathered the necessary documents, submit your IDP application to the proper authorities or through expedited return mail service. Depending on the country, this could be a local motor vehicle department, an embassy, or a consulate. You may need to pay a fee for processing and expect a wait time of up to two weeks for your permit to arrive.

Plan

Ensure you have all the documentation you need before submitting your application, as some countries require applications to be submitted in person or by mail. Additionally, applying far enough in advance to receive your IDP before leaving for your trip abroad is important.

Once you’ve completed these steps and obtained your IDP, you’re ready to hit the open road – no matter where that may be! With an International Driving Permit, you can know your travels abroad will be stress-free and enjoyable.

FAQs

Can you drive in another country without having an IDP?

In some countries, you can drive without an IDP, but it’s always best to check with local authorities beforehand like the american automobile association aaa the american automobile touring alliance.

When to apply for the IDP?

Applying for an IDP well before your trip is best, as the processing time varies by country. You also want to ensure you have all the necessary documents before applying.

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

No, you cannot obtain an IDP in the U.S. To be eligible for an IDP, you must have a valid license from your home country.

How Long Does It Take To Get an IDP?

The processing time for an International driver’s permit can vary, depending on the issuing authority. Depending on where you live, this could take as little as a few days or up to several weeks.

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

California is the only U.S. state requiring foreign drivers to have International driving permits. However, it’s always best to check with local authorities before driving in a foreign country, as laws can change frequently.

Conclusion

An International Driving Permit is necessary for many travelers who plan to drive abroad. Whether you want to cruise along the coast or explore the local towns, drive safely and worry-free with an IDP. It’s not difficult to get one, either; all it takes is a bit of research into your destination, finding out if it requires an IDP, and applying for one in advance! It would be best to verify that you meet each country’s requirements before you go, as age limits and documentation needs may vary from country to country.