When do you need an international driver's license?
Learn tips on how to legally drive with an international driver's license in a foreign country.
Your dream foreign vacation is coming, and you want to be able to hit the open road and see all the sights. But before you start driving in other countries, it’s important to understand the rules and laws. Identification changes and requirements can be confusing. Many countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP), commonly referred to as an international driver’s license, to drive legally. Fines for driving without an IDP can be quite costly.
An IDP allows you to drive legally in 150 countries but does not replace your existing driver’s license. In addition, an IDP translates your identification information into 10 languages. Both the IDP and your existing license may be required in other countries, so plan ahead before your next international trip.
Do I need an international driving permit?
In some countries, public transportation is very common and may fit your needs. If you decide to drive in the foreign country you are visiting, consider acquainting yourself with the rules of the road, as they may be different from what you are accustomed to.
Depending on the country you're visiting, an IDP may be needed. A few countries, notably China, do not recognize the IDP, so it’s important to check if a country recognizes an IDP before you leave. In addition, some countries, such as Mexico, Canada and England, allow United States drivers to use their U.S. driver's licenses for short periods, but usually not more than six to 12 months.
An IDP is essential if your driver’s license is not in the same language as the country you’re visiting. For example, if you’re an American traveler questioning, “Can I use my U.S. driver’s license in Italy?” the answer is probably no because your local license is not written in Italian. Whereas, if questioning, “Can I drive in the U.K. with a U.S. license?” the answer is probably yes, but always check the latest regulations to be aware of any changes.
Before you travel abroad it’s preferable to get an IDP as a form of identification if you intend on driving while there or renting a vehicle. Most countries recommend having an IDP that includes your name, photo and driver information. An IDP may not be issued more than six months in advance.
Where to get an international driving permit
In the United States, the only organization that can issue an IDP is the American Automobile Association (AAA). Avoid unofficial websites that claim to offer IDPs; they may not be legitimate or recognized internationally. To be eligible for an IDP, you must:
- Be a permanent resident of the U.S. or territories, U.S. citizenship is not a requirement.
- Be at least 18 years of age and hold a valid driver's license issued by a state or territory of the U.S.
- Have a valid driver’s license that will not expire for at least 6 months (at the time you apply for an IDP).
How to get an international driving permit
An international driving permit application can be obtained online or by mail. The State Department, also recommends obtaining an IDP from the AAA site. The application requirement to apply is:
- A completed IDP application form
- Two original passport pictures each signed on the back
- A $20 permit fee
- A photocopy of both sides of your driver's license
How long does it take to get an international driver's license or permit?
It usually may take about 2 weeks to receive an IDP after applying by mail. Check with your local AAA office to see if you can apply in person to receive it faster. IDP is valid for a year.
Will I need auto insurance in a foreign country?
Similar to the U.S. requirement that foreign drivers need auto insurance, the same applies to U.S. drivers in foreign countries. Foreign auto insurance protection may be required by the country you are visiting. Even though you have U.S. auto insurance, the U.S. policy may not cover losses in a foreign country. Consider checking with your agent before traveling to see if your U.S. auto policy coverage applies to the destination you are visiting.
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The information in this article was obtained from various sources not associated with State Farm® (including State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company and its subsidiaries and affiliates). While we believe it to be reliable and accurate, we do not warrant the accuracy or reliability of the information. State Farm is not responsible for, and does not endorse or approve, either implicitly or explicitly, the content of any third party sites that might be hyperlinked from this page. The information is not intended to replace manuals, instructions or information provided by a manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional, or to affect coverage under any applicable insurance policy. These suggestions are not a complete list of every loss control measure. State Farm makes no guarantees of results from use of this information.
This article was drafted with the help of AI and reviewed by State Farm editors.
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