Hello, I’m Betsy Sell from AAA Travel. And today, we’re discussing the basics of international travel. Let’s talk about an important piece of documentation, the international driving permit, commonly called an IDP.
First of all, why do you need one? It’s a good idea to carry an international driving permit when you travel oversees even if you’re not planning, why? The IDP is a recognizable form of photo identification which helps communicate with foreign authorities. Many countries do not recognize a US driver’s license, however, most countries accept and may require an international driving permit. Go to AAA.com and look for information on IDPs.
IDPs are honored in more than a 150 countries outside the United States. An IDP functions as an efficient translator of a US driver’s license and to 10 foreign languages. But remember, these licenses are intended to replace a valid US state driver’s license and must be used in conjunction with a valid US license. IDPs are not valid in the country you’re living.
Now, how do apply for an international driving permit? AAA clubs are one of the two entities or authorized by the United States Department of States to issue the international driving permits to US residence who hold a valid US driver’s license. AAA can also issue the Inter-American driving permit that is recognized in Mexico, Central and South America.
To apply for an IDP, you must be at least 18 years of age. You will need your valid US driver’s license, $15.00 dollars and two original passport type photos. You will also be required to fill out an international driving permit application in advance or at the office. International driving permits, they not be issued more than six months in advance of desired effective date. IDPs can also be secured by mail. Just send the following to the nearest AAA office. You enclose your completed application form, two original passport type photos, each signed on the back, a $15.00 permit fee and a photocopy of both sides of your driver’s license and allow four to six weeks for return mail unless additional postage for express mail service is included with the application.
Digital photographs are acceptable, however, they must be over certain quality. Please go to travel.state.gov for guidelines. A word of caution, the US Department of State is aware that IDPs are sold over the internet and in person by individuals not authorize by the US Department of State. Many of these IDPs are sold for a large sums of money, far greater than what’s charged by authorize entities.
Go to AAA to be sure you are purchasing from an authorize individual. So that’s the basics of international driving permits. Next, I’ll talk with you about travel insurance.
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