How Does an International Drivers License Work?

International Drivers License Defined

An international drivers license is officially called an International Driving Permit (IDP). Issued through automobile clubs in the United States, the IDP allows a driver to operate a motor vehicle in a foreign locale. The permit also acts as valid identification. Accepted in over 150 countries, the IDP only works if the driver also has a valid license from her home country at the same time. An IDP doesn't replace an actual license in the traveler's home country, and is only good in member destinations.

How to Obtain an International Drivers License

IDPs are available in person, or through the mail. In the United States, AAA (American Automobile Association) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance/National Auto Club are the only sanctioned vendors of the permits. Download an application from the AAA website, fill it in and present it at your nearest AAA location with a check or money order for $15. They'll ask for your valid drivers license, as well as two passport photos. If you don't bring the pictures, don't worry--AAA will take them for you at the office location. For those without an office nearby, AAA also accepts applications by mail.

Watch Out For Scammers

Don't purchase an IDP from anyone other than AAA or AATA; anyone else claiming to sell the permits is lying. According to the State Department, "many of these IDPs are sold for large sums of money, far greater than the sum charged by entities authorized by the Department of State." Internet scammers often set up convincing websites that capture pictures, drivers license numbers and account information from unwary travelers. If something doesn't look right, follow the government's advice: "Consumers experiencing problems should report them to their local office of the U.S. Postal Inspector, Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Better Business Bureau, or their state or local Attorney General's Office."

References

• U.S. State Department: Road Safety Overseas
• AAA: International Driving Permits