The International Drivers Permit: Not Just A Drivers Permit
If youre traveling overseas, dont just take your primary drivers license, also make sure to carry an International Driving Permit. The International Drivers Permit, or IDP contains your name, photo and driver information, translated into 10 languages and is valid in over 150 countries. Even if youre not planning to drive, this is an internationally recognized form of identification and can be very helpful if youre in a situation where you have to communicate with foreign authorities.
In order to apply for an International Drivers Permit in the United States, you must go to one of the two automobile associations authorized by the U.S. Department of State: the American Automobile Association (AAA), or the American Automobile Touring Alliance. AAA has the application available online. AAA charges a fee of $15.00 and you can simply bring it in to AAA office near you.
If you prefer to obtain your International Driving Permit through the mail, here is what you will need to enclose: The completed application form, two ORIGINAL passport-type photos each signed on the back, a $15USD permit fee and a photocopy of both sides of your drivers license. Mail everything to AAA office near you or simply walk it in to a local AAA office.
Remember that the IDP is not intended to replace a valid U.S. state license and should only be used as a supplement to your own valid license. They are also NOT valid in the individuals country of residence.
If you ARE planning on driving overseas and are renting a car, check with the rental company first to see if they require an International Drivers Permit and allow yourself plenty of time to apply for one before you depart on your trip.
Here are also some helpful tips for driving abroad from the U.S. State Department.
TIPS ON DRIVING ABROAD
1. Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP).
2. Carry both your IDP and your state drivers license with you at all times. As many countries have different driving rules. If possible, obtain a copy of the foreign countrys rules before you begin driving in that country. Information may be available from the foreign embassy in the United States, foreign government tourism offices, or from a car rental company in the foreign country.
3. Some countries have a minimum and maximum driving age.
4. Certain countries require road permits, instead of tolls, to use on their divided highways, and they will fine those found driving without a permit.
5. Always buckle up. Some countries have penalties for people who violate this law.
6. Many countries require you to honk your horn before going around a sharp corner or to flash your lights before passing.
7. Before you start your journey, find out who has the right of way in a traffic circle.
8. If you rent a car, make sure you have liability insurance. If you do not, this could lead to financial disaster.
9. If the drivers in the country you are visiting drive on the opposite side of the road than in the U.S., it may be prudent to practice driving in a less populated area before attempting to drive in heavy traffic.
10. Always know the route you will be traveling. Have a copy of a good road map, and chart your course before beginning.
11. Do not pick up hitchhikers or strangers.
12. When entering your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.
By: Golden Girl
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