IDP Driving Licence: Everything You Need to Know
The International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary for driving overseas, ensuring recognition of driving credentials and legal driving in foreign countries. Learn about purpose, application, validity, and importance. IDP Driving Permit, IDP Driver Permit, IDP Drivers Permit, IDP Driver’s Permit, IDP Driving licence
What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
The International Driving Permit (IDP) translates your domestic license for driving in over 150 countries. It helps overcome language barriers by translating credentials into multiple languages. Note: IDP is not a replacement but a supplementary document; carry both IDP and local license when driving abroad. IDP Driving Permit, IDP Driver Permit, IDP Drivers Permit, IDP Driver’s Permit, IDP Driving licence
Who Needs an IDP?
If you plan to rent or drive a car abroad where your local license is not in the local language, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Countries in the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic recognize the IDP for international travelers. It’s recommended for road trips in Europe, business travel, expats, and adventurers for easier interactions with authorities, rental agencies, and insurers.
How to Apply for an IDP?
Getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) is a simple process.
Here is a step-by-step guide to obtaining one:Step 1: Ensure Eligibility – You must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driving license from your home country.
Step 2: Find the Issuing Authority – Different countries have specific organizations like AAA in the US or the Post Office in the UK.
Step 3: Collect Documents – Fill out an application form, provide photos, a copy of your license, and pay a fee.
Step 4: Submit Application – Online, in person, or by mail.
Step 5: Get your IDP – Valid for a year, with easy renewal options.
Countries That Recognize the IDP
The International Driving Permit is accepted in over 150 countries, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. In Europe, countries like Spain, Italy, and France require an IDP for non-EU drivers. In Asia, Japan and Thailand have mandatory IDP requirements, while India and China require a local license. African countries like South Africa and Kenya accept the IDP. In the Americas, the United States, Canada, and Latin American countries like Argentina and Brazil recommend having an IDP for foreign drivers.
Why You Should Always Carry an IDP
Having an IDP offers benefits, such as legal compliance in countries that mandate it, simplifying car rentals, providing emergency assistance in accidents, and ensuring insurance coverage validity for some policies. Driving without an IDP where required may result in penalties or driving restrictions.
When is an IDP Not Necessary?
In certain situations, an International Driving Permit may not be necessary, such as driving in countries with license recognition agreements or if your local license is in the official language. However, carrying an IDP is advisable for rental cars or legal issues.
How Long is an IDP Valid?
The International Driving Permit is typically valid for one year from the issue date, suitable for short trips or temporary stays abroad. Renew if needed after a year, ensuring both permits stay valid.
What you need to rent a car, and how to rent one
As a tourist, you’ll most likely be renting a car (more on that in a bit) for your road trip. Even so, there are certain requirements that you’ll have to check off before you get into it. IDP Online Guide.
- You have to get an International Driver’s Permit. Apply for it online or head to the office — we prefer doing it in person because the queue is pretty short during off-peak hours, and you can get it done on the same day. It’ll cost S$20 and is valid for one year from the date of issue.
- A valid local driver’s license. international driving licence online
- You have to be at least 21 years of age and have held your local licence for a year. A surcharge may be imposed for drivers under the age of 25.
- A passport for identification .
- A credit card in the driver’s name.
How to obtain an IDP
The process of obtaining an international driving license directly from an office can be quite challenging and time-consuming. The payment methods involved can also be complex. Therefore, it is recommended to consider applying for an international driving license from IMTA. The application process only takes around 10 to 15 minutes, making it a more efficient option for getting your IDP. international driving permit online uk, international drivers permit online uk, international driver’s permit online uk, international driver permit online uk, international driving License online uk
The necessary details required for the application of an IDP include:
– Full Name
– Email & Phone Number
– Current Address
– Place of Birth
– National Driver’s License Number
– National Driver’s License Issued Date & Expiry Date
– Picture of Driver’s License & Your Head Shot Photo for Your IDP
Conclusion
Obtaining an International Driving Permit is crucial for driving in foreign countries. The IDP allows legal driving and vehicle rental worldwide, reducing legal issues for tourists and expats.
