International Driver’s License: Why you need one & how to get it

International driving licence: Everything you need to know before driving abroad

When we are going to organize a trip with possible driving included in our plans, an international driver’s license can be a mandatory condition. Whatever the case may be, whether you’re traveling for business, taking a road trip in a foreign country, or staying for an extended vacation abroad, knowing how to get and use an international driver’s permit will ensure a smooth, and stress-free, driving experience abroad.

What is an international driver’s license?

An international driver’s license — the correct name is International Driving Permit (IDP) — translates your national driver’s license into multiple languages. Recognized in over 150 countries, it is often required as a condition to rent a car or legally drive in an overseas country. An IDP alone is not a license, though — you’ll still need to show it alongside your current national driver’s license.

Why do you need an international driver’s license?

• Legal compliance – The majority of nations require a foreign driver to possess an IDP. Its absence can result in fines or driving prohibitions.
• Ease of communication – The IDP streamlines your license to be authenticated in a number of languages by local authorities.
• Car rental requirement – Some rental agencies like Europcar may require you to produce your IDP as well as your national license to rent a vehicle.

Differences in international driver’s license regulations by country

Each country has varying rules and regulations regarding driving permits abroad. In France and Germany, for example, a non-EU country driver’s license must be supplemented with an IDP. In contrast to this, in the United Kingdom, you can drive with your national license up to a year. In Japan, though, it is strictly mandatory to have an IDP and must be of the 1949 Geneva Convention model.

Foreign motorists must have their license officially translated or present an IDP if they plan to drive in Australia as visitors up to three months. Similarly, Brazil and Argentina have very strict rules regarding foreign motorists with regard to their IDPs, stressing that it’s essential to research their destination countries in advance.

How to obtain an international driver’s license

Getting an IDP is extremely convenient. Here’s what you have to do:

1. Check eligibility –A valid driver’s license in your home country will be required.
2. Apply through the authorized agency –Each country has authorized agencies that issue IDPs. In the United States, to give an example, American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are authorized providers.
3. Prepare your documents – Typically, you’ll need:
   • A completed application form
   • Copy of your valid national driver’s license
   • Passport Photos
   • A small fee (varies by country)
4. Receive your IDP –It takes different processing times but some centers offer same-day processing.

Where is an international driver’s license required?

While an IDP is accepted throughout the world, it is not mandatory on every territory. Some countries such as Canada and the United Kingdom allow visitors to drive with their national driving license for a certain amount of time. In Japan and Brazil, for example, it is mandatory to have an IDP. Always check your host country’s driving regulations before you travel.

Using an international driver’s license with a rental car

If you rent a car while abroad, an IDP can make things much easier. Europcar operates in over 140 countries, and if you’re a foreign driver here you’ll most likely be asked for an IDP. Reserving a rental with Europcar assures you of a hassle-free experience with a range of cars to suit your needs. Check our car rental services here.

Additional considerations for long-term stays

A license may not be enough if you are going to live in a foreign country for any length of time. Some countries require expats or long-term visitors to get a local driver’s license after a certain period of time. These tests can include written tests, but also driving tests and other paperwork. Local rules will apply, however, so check with the local transportation agency to see you’re following all stipulations.

What’s more, in some areas, arrangements exist whereby foreign licenses can be swapped for a local one without extensive testing. For instance, there are license conversion agreements or very streamlined license conversion policy with some states in the United States; similarly with some European countries. To save both time and effort, it is advisable to ask about such options in advance.

Tips for safe driving abroad

Crossing a border and driving within a foreign country brings unique challenges. Road signs, traffic laws and driving etiquette can feel very different than what you’re used to. Here are some quick tips to help you remain safe:

• Get acquainted with local regulations —Learn speed limits, who has the right of way and driving customs in the area.
• Learn About The Roads –Certain countries have narrow roads, hill roads or unpredictable weather that can affect driving safety.
• Know your insurance coverage –Check that your rental or personal automobile is covered to drive overseas.
• Prepare for language barriers –It is advisable to have a translation application or at least a working knowledge of important traffic jargon in case of emergencies.

Understanding international road signs

Decoding foreign road signs is likely to be the biggest challenge of driving abroad. Most countries have universal symbols, but some do differ. In Europe, warning signs indicating hazards will be shaped like a triangle, but in America they will be diamond-shaped. It will make your journey safer on roads and avert misunderstandings if you study up on standard road signs in advance.

Also note signage around toll roads, restricted areas, and parking regulations as they may vary significantly between countries.Neglecting such regulations could lead to hefty fines or a tow of your vehicle off the road, spoiling your trip.

The importance of emergency preparedness

Driving abroad can lead to unexpected situations, whether it’s phone breakdowns or health issues. It’s always good to have a plan B if something happens. Here is what you can do:

• Keep emergency contacts handy –Have saved local numbers including police, medical services, roadside assistance services.
• Carry essential supplies –If by some chance you ever have an accident, a spare tire, flashlight, jumper cables, and a first aid kit can be lifesavers.
• Know your rental car provider’s policies –Europcar, for example, offers roadside assistance services at several locations so that help is available if needed.

Having a plan will give you peace of mind and help you deal with unexpected circumstances with confidence.

Choosing the perfect vehicle with an international driver’s license

With an International driver’s license, you can rent a variety of vehicles to meet your needs for travel. Whether you want to drive a compact car on city streets, a big SUV to take your family on a road trip, or a luxury car to have yourself a high-level drive experience, you have lots of cars to choose from. Some areas even offer the ability to rent green electric or hybrid automobiles for your carbon footprint while you’re traveling. Europcar provides a diverse collection of cars to suit every preference so that international drivers can find their preferred car to drive on their trip. Explore the available car rental options here and choose the ideal vehicle for your trip.

A compact or economy car is usually your best bet if you’re headed for a city with narrow roads and little available parking. These cars have good mileage, are easily driven in the traffic, and are good to drive within the city. If you made long-distance travel plans or you had plans to travel through rough roads, SUVs or 4×4 vehicles offer you comfort and toughness to cover the long distances.

The executive and luxury vehicles are best for business people who desire extra comfort and high-tech features while traveling. The vehicles have top-of-the-line features, comfort, and state-of-the-art technology to provide a class-A driving experience. For their part, families or those who travel together in large numbers may find minivans or multi-passenger vehicles to be best with ample space to hold passengers and luggage.

Electric and hybrid vehicles become more and more popular with environmentally conscious travellers. Charging stations have become accessible in cities worldwide, making it more convenient than ever to rent and drive a green vehicle. Entertainment and Europcar Green Mobility promise: Passengers can rent eco-friendly cars to minimize carbon footprint while getting to their destination.

Whether you are going for work, business, a dream trip, or your family vacation, renting the right vehicle can truly ease your whole trip. With more than just a basic selection of cars – from 4x4s suitable for traveling off-road in the country to luxury sedans for the big cities – Europcar knows that anyone with an international driver’s license can find the ideal automobile to match any adventure.

The advantages of having an international driver’s license

• Having a valid internationally accepted driver’s license provides several advantages that make driving abroad more convenient and hassle-free. Firstly, it keeps you in line with the law so that you can drive in over 150 countries without being fined or encountering legal issues. The majority of countries require that you possess an IDP as a prerequisite to rent a car, and without it you will be denied being able to explore your holiday destination at your convenience.  

• Besides being legal, an IDP also helps to communicate with local authorities. As it translates your driver’s license into multiple languages, it minimizes misunderstandings in case of police stops or accidents. It can be especially useful in countries where English is not generally used to make interactions with law enforcement or rental agencies more efficient and streamlined.

• You also get independence and flexibility, which is another huge benefit. Having a driver’s license that’s valid in other countries means you’re not dependent on public transportation routes or overpriced taxi fares. You have your own time to plan the day, and you can drive to remote areas which cannot be accessed otherwise, you also have the luxury to travel at your will. This is especially handy for road trips, weekend getaways, and family outings where convenience and flexibility are key.

• Additionally, with an IDP it is more convenient to rent a variety of cars that best fit your needs. If you require a small car to commute in cities, an SUV to drive off-roads, or a luxury car to drive around in business meetings, an IDP offers you ample options to rent cars. The majority of car rental agencies like Europcar require an IDP from foreign visitors, thus it is a must document to rent cars without inconvenience. 

• Let’s not forget the peace of mind a IDP brings. This means you can finally sit back and enjoy yourself when abroad without stressing about unexpected hurdles on the road because you know you’ll be covered in any extreme driving situation. However, with all that it has to offer, securing an international driver’s license is a small yet valuable movement in turning your journey to a joyful experience.

What to remember?

An international driver’s license is a must if you are driving abroad. It helps you keep in line with local laws, rent cars seamlessly and get peace of mind when driving on foreign roads. It also saves you from the hassle of a communication gap with local authorities and you can roam about your destination without a hitch. Whether you have a short trip or long-term residence planned, holding an IDP gives you the liberty to drive at your convenience and make your trip as enjoyable as possible. 

Before your next trip, review your driving plans to see if you’ll need an IDP and if so, get one in advance. It increases how many places you can visit and improves your experience by opening the availability of you to a wider array of rental vehicles that are tailored to you. Whether you’re navigating the streets of a city or the dirt roads in a remote town, Europcar has got you covered with its range of compact cars to larger SUVs available for rent. Rent your car with Europcar and have a hassle-free drive!