The Secret Secrets Of Driving License For International Use
Can I Get an International Driving License For International Use?
If you're holding a valid US driving license, you can apply for an international license (IDP). It's not a substitute for your license in the US, but it can supplement and support it in other countries.
The IDP is accepted in more than 150 countries. You can apply online or at the nearest AAA branch.
What is an International Driving Permit?
The International Driving Permit is an official translation that can be used in conjunction with a regular driver's licence. It displays your name, photo, and license information in ten languages that authorities can communicate with even if you speak a different dialect. IDPs are inexpensive, easy to get from AAA and are recognized as a method of identification in more than 150 countries.
Certain countries require an IDP to be presented along with an official driver's licence issued by the country in order to rent or drive a car. If you're unsure whether you'll require an IDP for your trip abroad, check with the embassy of your home country or go to the AATA's website. körbehörighet online 's also a good idea to prepare and apply for an IDP prior to your departure date to avoid processing delays.
Most countries that require an IDP along with your national driver's licence are signatories to one or more international agreements on road traffic. These include the 1926 Paris International Convention relative to Motor Traffic, the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic and the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.
The requirements for an IDP are different for each country, so be sure to research the specific IDP and driving regulations of the country you're planning to visit before you leave. In most instances the IDP will work in tandem with your original state driver's license when accompanied by proper paperwork.
If you're driving in a foreign country be sure to follow local laws regarding driving. This includes seatbelt and speed limits requirements. It's best to avoid driving drunk because DUI laws in some countries can be stricter.
Although it might be tempting to skip getting an IDP and just rely on your U.S. license for your trip, doing so could come back to haunt you in the event that you are stopped by the police while driving in foreign countries. You can minimize or eliminate the chance of fines, and other issues when traveling abroad by having an IDP.
How do I apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
If you are planning to drive internationally, the first thing to apply for an international driver's license. You can apply on the internet or in person. You'll need to provide proof that you are who you say you are and your driver's license from your home country and an image of your passport. It's important to apply for an IDP prior to your travels as it can take up to 30 days to get it.

Your IDP acts as a translation for your original driving license and can help you overcome language barriers while on the road. It is valid in more than 174 countries, and can help police officers be aware of your rights to drive if you encounter trouble on the road. The IDP is recommended for certain travel scenarios for instance, when you rent a car.
The best method to obtain an IDP is through AAA or AATA Both are authorized by the DVLA to issue them. Keep your IDP on you at all times when driving in NYC. Also ensure that you have your original license as well as an IDP. You could be penalized or fined in the event that you don't have both documents. Also, bring physical maps as certain GPS systems might not work in certain countries.
One common mistake many travelers make is to assume that an IDP can replace their driver's license. This isn't true, and in fact driving with only an IDP could have serious consequences. While an IDP is widely recognized but it's not universally accepted. Certain countries, such as China do not recognize IDPs.
A New York driver who wants to travel around the world can apply for an international driving license. It's important that you understand the way an IDP works prior to traveling and use it with care. By following these tips you can safely and legally travel abroad using an IDP.
Do I require an International Driving Permit to drive in the U.S.?
If you hold an driver's license from another country, there are some things to be aware of. While each state has its specific driving laws and regulations but many are the same. For instance, the majority of states require that you are of legal age and medically competent to drive. In addition, many states have different speed limits by state and you may require a specific kind of insurance for your car. You should also be aware that if traveling from a country that does not have a reciprocity deal with the U.S., you will likely need an IDP prior to your travels.
The length of time you are allowed to drive in the United States on your foreign driver's license depends on whether you are an uninitiated visitor or a resident. Most short-term visitors are able to use their foreign licenses up to six months, but you'll need an IDP if you intend to stay longer than that. If you're a permanent resident it's best to apply for a state-issued license instead of trying to figure out a solution using an IDP.
In some cases the license issued by your international driver may be substituted for a state-issued driver's license in the event that you're a resident of a country that has a reciprocity agreement with the United States. This is a process that varies by state, and you'll have to contact your Department of Motor Vehicles for more information.
Getting an IDP is fairly simple however, you'll need provide additional documentation before you can complete the process. For example, you'll need to submit a photocopy of your current driver's licence and two passport photographs that are original. In addition, you'll need to pay the appropriate fee for the permit.
Only purchase an IDP through a legitimate source such as your local AAA branch. The US State Department has warned that other organizations may be swindling drivers. Additionally only the American Automobile Association has the authority to issue international driving permits in the United States. If you see a fraudulent advertisement for a driving permit, it is probably not from the American Automobile Association.
Can I drive in the U.S. with an International Driving Permit?
The answer to this question is contingent on the state you're currently in or are visiting. Certain states require you to obtain a new US license, whereas other states allow you to use your international driving permit for a period of time. It is best to check the specific rules of each state before you travel, since they may vary. To learn more about specific laws and regulations for driving in each state, just move your mouse or put your finger over the state on the map above.
An IDP is not a substitute for your national driver's licence and should be carried with it at all times. The physical document is larger than a passport and is issued in a variety of languages including English. It contains your name, photo and relevant driving information however it is not a replacement for your original driver's license. If you are detained by law enforcement officials while driving, they'll likely want to see your original driver's license and your IDP at the same time.
Most US states allow you to drive for a period of up to one year using your IDP, as long as your national license is valid for the same duration. If you're thinking of staying longer or obtaining permanent residency in the US It's a good idea to apply for a state-issued driver's license as soon as you can.
In addition to having a valid driver's license, you'll also require proof of insurance while driving in the US. It could take the form of an individual auto insurance policy, motor club membership or credit card. If you're renting a vehicle the rental company will typically offer this coverage to you.
Visit the website of the department of motor in your state's vehicle to find out more about the process of obtaining a license. You should study the process and the fees for each state before you begin the application. Generally, you'll need to possess your international driving permit and your driver's license from your country of origin and proof of your residence (like utility bills or a bank statement). The process of obtaining a US state-issued driver's license is a worthwhile investment that will grant you more freedom while in the United States.