International Driving Permit

Are you planning to drive on your next trip overseas? Your US state-issued driver's license may not be enough to allow you to legally drive or rent a car in a foreign country. You may need to get an International Driving Permit (also called an International Driving Permit or IDP).

The International Driving Permit program was established by the United Nations Convention on Road Traffic to facilitate international travel. Nearly 180 countries are signatories to this program, allowing drivers to use an IDP as proof of their valid driving credentials. Since many countries have unique licensing requirements and may not recognize foreign licenses, the IDP serves as a standardized document that confirms the holder is a licensed driver.

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Eligibility and Validity

You can acquire an International Driving Permit if you meet the following criteria:

• Age 18 or older
• Hold a valid driver's license from a US state with at least six months remaining before the expiration date. Expired or suspended licenses can not be used to get an IDP.

Your IDP is valid for one year from the issue date and cannot be renewed or extended. To continue using an IDP after it expires, you would need to apply for a new one.

Benefits of the International Driving Permit

• Recognized in countries around the world - Because US driver's licenses are issued by states, not by the nation, they can be confusing to foreigners. They may look at a driver's license that says "Minnesota" or "Rhode Island" and not recognize that it is a valid US license. The International Driving Permit is instantly understood to certify that you are authorized to drive.
• Printed in many languages - The International Driving Permit states that you are a licensed driver in many languages, including English, Arabic, Chinese, French, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish and Scandinavian languages. This means that a police officer or rental car clerk who doesn't know English will still be able to read your International Driving Permit in another language.
• Required for car rentals in many countries - More than 40 countries worldwide will not allow you to rent a car unless you hold an International Driving Permit.
• Required by many insurance policies - Think your regular car insurance or travel insurance will cover you if you get into an accident while driving abroad? Many insurance policies cover only drivers who hold an International Driving Permit.

How to Get an International Driving Permit

In the United States, only the American Automobile Association (AAA) is authorized to issue IDPs. You do not need to be a AAA member to apply, and you can apply in person, by mail, or online through AAA’s website.

The following documents are required to apply for an IDP:

• One completed and signed International Driving Permit application
• Two passport-style photographs
• A photocopy of the front and back of your valid state-issued driver's license
• International Driving Permit fee of $20.00

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