Here's A Little-Known Fact Regarding Driving License For International Use
Can I Get an International Driving License For International Use?
If you have a valid US driving license, you may apply for an international license (IDP). It's not a substitute for your domestic license but it can supplement and support it in other countries.
The IDP contains your name and photograph, and is accepted in 150 countries. You can apply on the internet or in person at the nearest AAA branch office.
What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
The International Driving Permit is an official translation that can be used in conjunction with a regular driver's licence. It displays your name along with your photo and license details in ten different languages so that authorities can communicate with you even if they speak another language. IDPs are available from AAA They are affordable and are accepted as a proof of identity or identification in more than 150 countries.
Certain countries require an IDP in addition to your driver's license from your country in order to rent a car or to drive there. If you're not sure whether or not you'll need an IDP while traveling abroad, check with your country's embassy or consult the AATA website. To avoid delays, it's a good idea to apply for an IDP well in advance of your departure date.
Most countries that require an IDP along with your national driver's license are signatories of one or more international conventions governing 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.
Before you travel, research the requirements for an IDP in the country you are visiting. In the majority of instances, your IDP will work in tandem with your state driver's license, provided it is accompanied by proper paperwork.
If you're driving in a foreign country, make sure to adhere to local driving laws. This includes speed limits and seatbelt requirements. It's a good idea to avoid driving while drunk since DUI laws in certain countries may be more stringent.
It may be tempting to trust your U.S. driving license and leave out the IDP, but this could backfire if you encounter a police stop while driving abroad. If you take the time to apply for an IDP before you travel, you'll lower or eliminate the chance of being fined and other nagging issues when traveling abroad.
How do I obtain an International Driving Permit?
You will need to first apply for an international driving license if you plan to drive abroad. You can do this in person or online, and you must provide evidence of your identity as well as a valid driver's license from your country of origin, and a passport-sized picture. It is essential to apply for your IDP prior to your travels, as it can take 30 days to arrive.
Your IDP will act as a translation of your original driving license and will help you overcome language barriers while on the road. It is valid in over 174 countries, and it 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 situations like when you rent cars.
The best way to obtain an IDP is through AAA or AATA Both are authorized by the DVLA to issue them. You should always keep your IDP on you when you travel in NYC Make sure to carry both your IDP along with your original driver's license. You could be fined or penalized if you don't have both documents. Also, bring physical maps because some GPS systems may not function in certain countries.
A common mistake that travelers make is to believe that an IDP can replace their regular driver's license. Driving with an IDP alone could result in serious consequences. Although an IDP is widely recognized however, it's not universally recognized. Some countries, like China do not recognize IDPs.
An international driver's permit is a great tool for New York drivers who want to travel the world. However, it's important to know how an IDP functions prior to traveling and make use of it in a responsible manner. By following these tips you can confidently and legally drive around the world using an IDP.
Do I require an International Driving Permit in order to drive in the U.S.
If you hold an driver's license from another country, there are some things to remember. Although each state has its own laws and regulations, many of them have similar rules. For example, most require you to be legally qualified to drive. Additionally the speed limits in many states vary from state to state. You may also require an insurance policy that is specific to your needs. You should also be aware that, if you are travelling 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 time that you are allowed to drive in the United States on your foreign driver's license is contingent on whether you are an uninitiated visitor or a resident. Visitors who are short-term can use their foreign licenses for as long as six months, however you'll require an IDP if you plan to stay longer than that. If you're a permanent residence it's more beneficial to apply for the state-issued driver's license rather than try to work around with an IDP.
In certain instances, your international driver's license could be exchanged for a license issued by the state if you are a citizen of a nation that has an agreement of reciprocity with the United States. This process differs from state to state, so it's best to contact your Department of Motor Vehicles if you'd like to know more.
Finding an IDP is relatively easy however, you'll need provide some additional documentation before you can begin the procedure. For instance, you'll have to provide a photocopy your current driver's license as well as two passport photographs that are original. In addition, you'll need to pay the appropriate fee for the permit.
Be sure to only purchase an IDP from a legitimate source like your local AAA branch. The US State Department warned that other groups may be scamming motorists. Additionally, only the American Automobile Association is authorized to issue international driving permits in the United States. If you see a fake 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 visiting or residing in. Certain states require you get an updated US license, while other states permit you to use your international driving permit for a period of time. The best way to avoid this is to verify the rules for each state before traveling, as requirements can vary significantly. To learn more about the specific laws and regulations for driving in each state, just hover your mouse or hold your finger over the state on the map above.
The IDP is not designed to replace your driving license from the country you are driving with. It must be carried at all times. The physical document, which is slightly larger than passports and is issued in multiple languages including English, is slightly bigger. It contains your photo along with your name and pertinent driving information. However, it's not a substitute for your original license. If you are stopped by law enforcement officials while driving, they will likely require your original driver's licence and your IDP at the same at the same time.
The majority of US states permit you to drive for a period of up to one year with an IDP in the event that your national license is valid for the same duration. If you plan to remain longer in the US or seek permanent residency, it's best to apply as soon as possible to obtain an official state-issued license.
In addition to a valid driver's license, you will also require proof of insurance while driving in the US. It could take the form of an individual auto insurance policy or motor club membership credit card. The rental company will provide this protection if you're renting a car.
Visit the website of your state's department of motor vehicle to find out more about the process of obtaining a license. It is recommended to research the procedure and fees for each state before you start the application. Generally speaking, you'll need possess your international driving permit as well as your national driver's licence and proof of your residence (like an utility bill or bank statement). A state-issued US driver's licence will give you greater freedom within the United States.