25 Shocking Facts About International Driver's License
Obtaining an International Driver's License in New York
For longer stays, an IDP could be required. Check with your country's embassy and/or automobile association to learn more.
Beware of companies that claim to offer an international driver's license which can replace your US license. This is a false advertisement.
What is an IDP?
A New York driver who plans to travel internationally can legally drive if they have an active license. It is accepted by all 174 countries. Only one organization in the United States issues IDPs: The Automobile Association of America (AAA). IDPs are not a substitute for a regular driving license. IDP is not a substitute for your regular driving license. It converts your license information into ten different languages, and can help police officers and rental car agencies understand your credentials when pulled over in a foreign country.
Getting an IDP is relatively simple and quick. You'll need a clear photocopy of both sides of your driver's licence along with an application form that's completed. The IDP is $20 and is valid for one year. It can be picked up the same day at an AAA branch office or sent to you by AAA within 10 to 15 business days.
You'll require an IDP before traveling overseas. It is also important to ensure that your home country driver's license is still valid for the duration of your travel and that you're able to drive in the countries where you'll be traveling.
An IDP not only translates your license, it also provides an official stamp of your home government to confirm that your driver's license is valid for your home jurisdiction. Certain countries, like Italy and Greece, don't recognize IDPs as proof of eligibility to drive on their roads.
IDPs are especially useful in Turkey where the language of the native is Turkish and your standard driving license is written in English. This language isn't widely accepted. Imagine Sverige Express Kort as your driving license's translation passport.
An IDP isn't required in all cases however it's a good idea. It can help you to be understood in a country in which English is not the native language. It also helps you help you deal with police officers or car rental firms. It can also make driving abroad less stressful. The only drawback is that it can't replace your normal driver's license, and you'll have to keep both documents with you at all times while driving.
How do I get an IDP?
There are a few different ways to get an international driving license in New York, depending on whether or not you're a citizen or legal resident of the United States. In all cases, you will have to present valid passports from your country of origin along with two passport-style images, proof of residency, and pay the application fee. Those who do not qualify as citizens or legal residents of the United States will also need to provide additional documents, including proof of their immigration status.
The most common method to obtain an IDP is to visit your local AAA office and complete the necessary forms on-site. This is the fastest method, since you can usually receive your IDP the next day. If you choose to apply via mail you will also have to provide a copy of the driver's licence and proof of insurance, two passport-style photos, and a completed form.
In addition to serving as an official translation of your license, an IDP can help you overcome language barriers and also communicate with foreign authorities when you travel abroad. This is especially helpful in countries that offer limited English-speaking services or where you are a tourist and don't know the local language. If you encounter difficulties driving abroad, remain calm and present your IDP along with your New York license to any officials or police.
An IDP will not protect you from every conceivable issue while driving in foreign countries. There are many things that could happen behind the wheel. An IDP can mitigate some of these risk by ensuring your name and driver's details are translated into the local language and by providing a record of your driving experience.
A valid IDP will also allow you to rent a car from a wider range of companies, who may not accept licenses issued by other countries. While an IDP is not legally required for all travelers, in the majority of instances it is recommended and could make your travel less stressful.
What are the requirements for an IDP?
There are a few key requirements for New York drivers who want to get an international driver's license. First you must be a resident of New York and over 18 years old. You must also have a valid US driver's license in good standing. If you don't meet these criteria, an international driving permit will not be issued.
The second requirement is a copy of your passport. This is required to apply in person for an international license at an AAA branch or to mail your application. You'll also have to submit two passport photographs along with your US driver's licence and a $20 permit.
It is essential to fill out the IDP application completely and mark the box that says you plan to use the document for international driving. Fill out the application well prior to your travels because processing can take up to 10 business days. If you're applying via mail, you should include a certified copy of your US driver's license, as well as two passport photographs.
An international driver's licence is often mistakenly believed to be a replacement for your regular license when you're abroad. Driving with an IDP alone can get you in serious legal problems. Your IDP is merely a translation of the US driver's license. It should always be accompanied with your actual US driving licence when you drive overseas.
It is a great tool for New Yorkers who plan to travel abroad. It can be particularly useful in countries in which the Roman alphabet is not utilized. It is also a great tool to overcome language barriers when you are stopped by police officers or other official. In addition, an international driver's license can help you rent vehicles in countries where a majority of rental companies require the US-issued license.
It is recommended that you obtain an IDP even if it's not required. This is particularly true when you are driving in a country that doesn't use the Roman alphabet. It can be extremely helpful in situations where it's difficult to communicate with officials. It can also make it easier for you to rent a car and pass through customs.
Where can I find an IDP?
The process for obtaining an international driver's licence is fairly easy. There are three ways to go about it, including applying in person, submitting your documents online, or purchasing an IDP through a third party. Whichever method you choose you should allow plenty of time. It is possible for an IDP to take from a single day to several weeks to process. Therefore, you should apply six months before your departure.
Visit one of the three AAA offices in New York to apply. Bring a copy of your current driver's licence, two original passport photographs along with $20 (plus sales tax in the event of taxation) to the AAA office. You can download the IDP form in advance or complete it in person.
You can also send in your documents by mail. Include a signed copy your U.S. Driver's License, two passport-sized images, and a $20 fee. You can also avail an expedited service to get your IDP within one or two business days, at an additional cost.
Keep your IDP along with your original driving license whenever you drive across the globe. Some countries require both documents at all times, while others might only require an IDP in conjunction with your original license. It's essential to study the requirements of each country prior to you travel so that you don't get into any trouble.
The main reason it is important to obtain an IDP is that it translates the information on your driver's license into the language of your destination country. This is especially beneficial if you do not speak the language of your destination. It can also reduce the possibility of miscommunication with local authorities or car rental companies.
If you are not a AAA member There are a variety of organizations that provide international driving permits. Only AAA and AATA have the authority to issue IDPs within the United States. Be cautious of any organization that offers an IDP, especially if they promise to give you driving privileges with special conditions. It's likely to be to be a scam.