INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT FAQ

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is an official document that provides important information from your driver's license in several different languages, including English. This document came into existence by virtue of several UN Conventions on Road Traffic (1926, 1949 and 1968). As an official travel document, the IDP is recognized in over 150 countries today. Carried in conjunction with a National/Domestic driver's license, the IDP can help break down language barriers when traveling across countries.

An IDP serves as an official translation of your domestic driver's license, making it easier to communicate with foreign authorities, car rental companies, and law enforcement. It's recognized worldwide and can save you from potential legal issues when driving abroad. Additionally, it serves as valuable photo identification when traveling.

Many countries do not recognize driver's licenses from other countries, but officially recognize an IDP. Some countries may honor a driving license from your country of residence, but require a local language translation. The IDP can satisfy these requirements. While a country's government may not require an IDP, car rental companies located in that country may require an IDP to rent a car. Purchasing an IDP prior to departure can save a lot of potential hassles.

You must be at least 18 years of age to obtain an International Driving Permit. This age requirement is consistent across most countries and issuing authorities worldwide.

Requirements vary by country, but typically you need to:

• Complete a brief application form
• Provide two passport-size photographs with your signature on the back
• Submit a photocopy of the front and back of your valid domestic driver's license
• Pay the administrative fee

No, you cannot obtain an IDP if your domestic driver's license is expired. You must renew your domestic license before applying for an IDP. The IDP is only valid when accompanied by a valid domestic driver's license.

No, you cannot get an IDP issued with a temporary or interim driver's license. You must wait until you receive your permanent license before applying. While a temporary license is technically valid, authorities abroad may not accept it.

The validity depends on the convention:

• 1949 Convention IDP: Valid for a maximum of one year from the date of issue
• 1968 Convention IDP: Valid for up to 3 years

However, the validity of IDPs cannot exceed the validity of your domestic driver's license. Some countries recognize IDPs from foreign visitors only for a few weeks – usually only for as long as their tourist visas are valid.

Yes, as long as you are still in possession of a valid domestic driver's license, you can apply for a new IDP. The previous IDP's expiration doesn't prevent you from obtaining a new one.

No. Although the IDP is valid for one year (or longer for 1968 convention), you must adhere to all local laws. For example, in many countries, if you take up residence or employment there, you need to obtain a local license within a specified timeframe.

Penalties can range from a fine to a citation. Without an IDP, you are essentially driving without a valid license in that country. If stopped, highway patrols may seize the vehicle and arrest the driver or issue a citation for a mandatory court appearance. The severity depends on local laws and circumstances.

The IDP does not hold any powers of its own apart from your driver's license, and therefore, you do not have a separate driving record with an IDP. The IDP is valid only when carried in conjunction with and acts as a translation of your domestic driver's license. If you receive a citation while traveling in a foreign country, it will be reflected on the driving record associated with your domestic driver's license.