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If you want to drive while visiting another country, you might need need an international driver's license, depending on the country you plan to visit. An international driver's license is a supplement to your regular license and is not accepted in all countries. This page provides information on how to get an international driver's license.
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If you want to drive while visiting another country, you might need need an international driver's license, depending on the country you plan to visit. An international driver's license is a supplement to your regular license and is not accepted in all countries. This page provides information on how to get an international driver's license.
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Introduction
- If you want to drive while visiting another country, you might need an international driver's license, as your country's driver license might not be accepted. An international driver's license is a translation and supplement to your regular license and is not valid in your country of residence.
Step 1: Do You Need One?
- First check if you need an international driver's license to the country you are visiting. If you are a U.S. resident, some countries will accept your original license. However, it's always a good idea to have an international drivers license, as it's also a form of universal identification. However, be aware that not all countries accept an international driver's license.
Step 2: When and Where to Apply
- U.S. residents should check with the U.S. State Department to see which agencies are authorized to issue an international driver's license and when to apply.
- As of 2009, there are only two agencies authorized to issue one: The American Automobile Association and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (through the National Auto Club).
- You can't apply for one more than six months before your trip.
- If you are abroad, you can apply through mail.
- Although there are Web sites that claim to sell international driver's licenses, they are not authorized to do so, often charge much more than AAA or ATA and there is no guarantee you will receive the license. Some might be scam sites created to get your credit card information.
Step 3: How to Apply through AAA
- Applying for an international driver's license is simple.
- Apply in person. Fill in the application and bring your driver's license and two passport photographs.
- The fee to apply through AAA is currently $15.
- You can also apply through mail to AAA. Send in the application, signed photocopies of both sides of your license, two passport photographs and the payment.
- It takes about 4 to 6 weeks to receive the license, unless you pay extra for faster shipping.AAA: International Driver's License
Step 4: How to Apply through NAC
- You can also apply through NAC.
- NAC accepts mail applications. Fill in the application and submit two passport size photographs, signed photocopies of both sides of your license and a payment of $15.
- It takes about 10 to 15 days, unless you pay extra for shipping.NAC: International Driving Permit FAQ
Resources
- U.S. State Department: Road Safety Overseas
- AAA: International Driver's License
- NAC: International Driving Permit FAQ
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