Obtaining an International Driver's License

Why You Should Obtain an International Driver's License

Many travelers obtain an international driver's license before going to a foreign country even if they do not plan to drive. An international driver's license translates your personal information into 10 languages. This makes it understood in just about every place on Earth. If you ever need to deal with local authorities, an international driver's license can help you communicate. Also, travelers often rent vehicles unexpectedly. Motorcycles, mopeds and dune buggies are commonly used in resort areas.

More than 150 countries recognize the validity of an international driver's license. A list of these countries is on the international driver's license application. A link to the application is provided in the Resources section of this article.

An international driver's license entitles the bearer to operate a motor vehicle in any country that recognizes it. The types of vehicles the bearer can operate are exactly the same as the types listed on their American driver's license.

You must have a valid driver's license issued by a U.S. state or territory in order to obtain an international driver license. You should take both with you when you travel abroad. You must also be at least 18 years old. License holders younger than 18 are ineligible for an international driver's license.

The U.S. Department of State has authorized two agencies to issue international drive licenses. They are the American Automobile Association and the American Automobile Touring Alliance.

Download the application and fill it out. Take two passport photos and sign the back of each. Write a check or obtain a money order for the $15 fee. Take all of it to a AAA office or mail it to the address on the application form. You must also show your valid U.S. driver's license. If you are mailing your application, include copies of both sides of your license.

An international driver's license is valid for one year. The user can declare when she wants that one year to begin, but it can not be more than six months from when the international driver's license is issued. There are no renewals. When your international driver's license expires you must apply all over again.