International Driving Permit (IDP) is useful and (sometimes) required when you need a rental car outside of the States. IDP is not a license, but a little booklet with pages in different languages saying the person/holder is permitted to drive. Always make sure AAA stamps the correct language for you. If you are planning to drive in Japan, but IDP is in Arabic, You won't be able to rent a car and drive in Japan.
IDP is only valid for a year. After that, you'll need to apply for a new one. Also, the plastic protector in the photos below costs extra.
Which countries require an IDP?
This page is from IDP. It might change without notice so always check with the your destination's government website to double check if an IDP is required.
There's a few European countries that do not require an IDP as long as a valid US driver's license is presented: England, Ireland, Iceland. Again, always check official government website for more detail.
Where you can get an international license? You're in luck, my friends. You only need these 4 things:
A valid US driver's license.
TWO original passport photos.
$20 dollars to apply.
An application from AAA website.
If you need photos taken, AAA does provide the service for a small fee. Click to find your nearest AAA location. Once you're there, let them know you are applying for International Driving Permit and what language you need. Again, if the language is wrong, you might not be able to rent a car or drive in the country you are going to.
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