{"id":261942,"date":"2023-08-11T09:18:39","date_gmt":"2023-08-11T13:18:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/?p=261942"},"modified":"2024-10-19T16:21:23","modified_gmt":"2024-10-19T20:21:23","slug":"international-driving-permit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-blogs\/international-driving-permit\/","title":{"rendered":"How Get An International Driving Permit For Your Next Trip"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"The<\/p>\n

Road trips are one of my favorite ways to explore a country. They give you the freedom to go where you want, travel away from the tourist crowds, and usually even save you money compared to taking trains, buses, or flights.<\/p>\n

I\u2019ve been on countless road trips over the past 15 years \u2014 both as a driver and passenger \u2014 and can\u2019t recommend them enough. While it may be intimidating driving in a new country, it\u2019s never been easier to find a cheap car rental<\/a> and get off the beaten path.<\/p>\n

But I get a lot of questions from road-tripping travelers about driving licenses.<\/p>\n

Can you legally drive overseas? Do you need a special permit or international driver\u2019s license<\/a> to rent a car abroad?<\/p>\n

While US drivers can legally drive in the US and Canada, in most other countries, foreign drivers are only allowed to rent a car and drive a vehicle if they have an International Driving Permit (IDP). <\/p>\n

In this post, I\u2019ll break down what an IDP is, why it\u2019s useful, and how to get one so you can plan your next epic road trip with confidence.<\/p>\n\n

What is an IDP?<\/h3>\n

An International Driving Permit<\/a> is a UN-regulated travel document accepted worldwide when presented alongside a valid driver\u2019s license. It allows international drivers to drive in a foreign country. <\/p>\n

An IDP is essentially a translation of your driver’s license into the language of your destination country (so you still need a valid license to get one). <\/p>\n

\"A<\/p>\n

Once you apply for an IDP<\/a>, you\u2019ll be sent a paper booklet that you can use to rent or drive a vehicle in your destination country (over 150 countries around the world require travelers to have an IDP). You can also purchase a digital IDP for countries that accept it even without the booklet. <\/p>\n

Why Should You Get an IDP?<\/h3>\n

The primary reason to get an IDP is that, in many countries, it\u2019s actually required. If you plan on renting a vehicle and driving abroad, chances are you need an IDP.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re specifically planning a road trip overseas, an IDP is a must. And if you\u2019re a long-term traveler planning a multi-month (or multi-year) trip, getting an IDP before you go is a good idea. That way, you\u2019ll have it in case you do decide to rent or drive a car during your trip. Since the IDP is recognized in 165 countries<\/a>, chances are you\u2019ll be visiting a destination where you\u2019d need one. And if you\u2019re a flexible traveler like me and change your plans often, it\u2019s better to have one than not.<\/p>\n

How Do You Get an IDP?<\/h3>\n

The best way to get an IDP is from the International Drivers Association. They provide fast, easy, and affordable International Driving Permits (IDPs). Recognized in over 150 countries, IDPs translate your license into 12 languages, ensuring legal driving overseas. With instant approval, worldwide express shipping, and validity for 1-3 years, it’s an essential travel document for any globe-trotter planning to drive abroad.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s no test required either; you simply have to be over 18 and have a legal driver\u2019s license.<\/p>\n

\"A<\/p>\n

Best of all, the International Drivers Association also has tons of resources on their website, including driving guides<\/a> to help you learn about renting a car abroad and any rules of the road you may be unfamiliar with. <\/p>\n

***<\/center><\/p>\n

Road trips are a fun, flexible, and budget-friendly way to travel. By getting an IDP before your next trip, you\u2019ll be able to rent a car and drive abroad. It\u2019s a must-have document for travelers looking to drive. <\/p>\n

\n

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks<\/h4>\n

Book Your Flight<\/strong>
\nFind a cheap flight by using Skyscanner<\/a>. It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned. <\/p>\n

Book Your Accommodation<\/strong>
\nYou can book your hostel with Hostelworld<\/a>. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com<\/a> as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. <\/p>\n

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance<\/strong>
\nTravel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:<\/p>\n