Driving in Europe: Do You Need To Have an International Driving Permit
Traveling to another country is exciting. Renting a car is a great way to explore on your own. When you travel to other countries, and plan on renting a car, you should know every country has its own rules on who can drive or rent a car. Here are some tips about what you might need to drive in Europe.
In most European Countries you will just need your passport and driver’s license. But some require an International Drivers Permit . An International Drivers Permit (IDP) needs to be used with a valid United States license in order to be valid.
In The United States, IDPs can be obtained at American Automobile Association (AAA) offices and from the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), typically for a fee of $15 or $20. These are the only two organizations in the United States that are authorized to provide international drivers permits, so beware of any other companies that say they offer them.
Countries that Require an IDP
It’s best to check with the tourist board for the country you’re visiting to get information on exactly what you need to drive in another country. Generally, most European countries do not require American drivers to have an IDP.
However, the following countries do require International Driver’s Permits in conjunction with valid United States’ driver’s licenses: Austria, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Greece, Germany, Hungary, Poland, Italy, Slovenia, and Spain.
Be aware of the rules of the road in other countries. You can contact the embassy or consulate of the country you’re planning on visiting to inquire about their requirements.
Don’t fall for any websites that say they provide IDP’s. Always be sure to check you’re going through the only two licensed issuers of IDPs: AAA and AATA.
Ready to plan your dream vacation?
Contact a Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829
Don’t forget to check out our website and Like us on Facebook for the latest travel deals, news & tips!
