INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT
License Translation When Renting a Car in Europe
In most of western Europe, the main familiar countries of the EU, a U.S. driver’s license is generally sufficient for renting a car. For some of the newer entrants into the European fold for the former east, like Croatia and Poland, an International Driving Permit is either required or a very good idea. This is not a “license” pre se, but a document which essential translates the information from the holder’s official home country license in several foreign languages, so that local officials can understand the information. This International Driving Permit – IDP – allows the permit holder to operate a private (non-commercial) motor vehicle.
The IDP must be accompanied by a valid official driver’s license from the home country. The permit document is just a bit larger than a standard passport and contains your name, your photograph, and your driver’s license information translated into 10 languages.
Of course, you don’t have to drive for an IDP to be useful. Should you need to communicate with foreign authorities, this recognizable form of identification can offer some more handy help. The IDP is valid in 150 countries.
In the United States, the State Department has authorized two private entities, the Americsan Automobile Association (AAA) and the National Auto Club to issue IDPs. The International Driver’s Permit available through AAA cost $15 dollars. Either go to an office if one is near you, or obtain one by mail. In person, you can get one the same day, bring your valid U.S. driver's license, the $15, and two original passport photos. (They can take the photos at AAA offices.) You can download and fill out the International Driving Permit application in advance.
If there is no office nearby, you can mail the application. Enclose a completed application form, the two original passport-type photos each signed on the back, the $15 permit fee and a photocopy of both sides of your driver's license and mail them to the AAA office nearest you (check with them by phone for payment options). Include additional money for expedited return mail service (or FedEx etc.,) if you’re in a hurry.
The International Driving Permit cannot be issued more than 6 months in advance of its effective date and is good for one year in European countries. There are some commercial services which offer IDP’s but extra fees may be involved and be wary of dodgy unauthorized services. ©Bargain
Travel Europe
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See Also:
RENTING A CAR IN EUROPE
SEEING
IRELAND BY RENTAL CAR
