facts about International Driving Permits(IDP) for UK citizens

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Dave The Dude

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Driving outside EU: may need extra permit

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A UK driving licence is accepted throughout the EU, but if planning a road trip further afield, check if you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
These are required or recommended in about 140 countries, including the USA, Thailand and India. Drive without one where it's needed and you risk trouble with the authorities, and may be refused a hire car.
The AA website also reports a high number of calls from its members who've been fined up to €350 on the spot for not carrying an IDP in Croatia, so it's well worth making sure you're covered.
They're in booklet format, and contain several translations of your driving licence. There are two types, known as the 1926 and 1949 Conventions, and both are the same price. Which you'll need depends on where you're off to.
Will I need a permit?

Before you leave, check the full list of countries where it's required or recommended on the AA website; it'll also tell you which type to get. You'll need to be 18 or over to get an International Driving Permit, and hold a full driving licence (see above for how to renew).
How to apply


There are two ways to get an IDP:
  • It's £5.50 in person from selected Post Office branches.
  • Alternatively, you can get one by post at £7.50 from the RAC or £8 from the AA.
The IDP lasts a year, and you can apply up to three months in advance of going away so there's no need to leave it to the last minute. It doesn't replace a driving licence though, as you'll need to show both when required. Only buy one via the methods above though ...
Beware websites selling 'international driving licences' – these aren't legally recognised documents, so don't get caught out.
An AA spokesperson told us: "Some people mistakenly refer to International Driving Permits (IDP) as international driving licences. However, there is no such thing as an international driving licence – they are not legally recognised – so don’t be fooled into buying one, as they are not worth the paper they are printed on.
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"An IDP, on the other hand, is required or recommended in 139 countries and is recognised internationally – they are issued in accordance with Road Traffic Conventions, which stipulate that they can only be issued by motoring organisations or motoring authorities."
If you're thinking of hiring abroad check out the Cheap Car Hire guide for tips, and if jetting off, don't forget the free passport-sized Little Lifesaver travel guide in case of emergencies.
 
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