Do you need a international driving permit for the USA?

SimbaSimon

Anyone know? I've got a permanent new style license but not sure whether I need to apply for an international driving permit for hiring a car in the USA? Don't really want to be left with no car but I don't see why it would be needed.

Stageshoot

No as long as you have the photocard and paper section you are 100% legal in the US for up to 90 days.

tuggy12

You don't normally need an IDP but some good info here
http://www.usembassy.org.uk/rctour.html

Important to remember you must have your driving licence with you when you are driving - you'll get a ticket (or worse) if you leave your licence in your hotel room.

dzug1

You don't need one to DRIVE a car in the USA.

It's possible that some car hire outfits might ask to see one to HIRE a car. I've never come across this, but have seen the very occasional assertion that it is so, so it would be wise to check it out.

bairn7

International Driving Permits are only really useful if your original licence is not in English. British Driving licences are absolutely fine as long as you take both the photocard and paper part (i've even got away with just the photocard but I wouldn't take the chance). Don't worry about it.

SimbaSimon

Thanks, I thought this may be the case.

My california car hire is all booked now via netflights :j

Stageshoot

Have a great trip and have fun

Just remember in California, you cannot have anything stuck to the windscreen, so if you are taking a satnav or phone holder it cannot be on the windscreen, (You will get a ticket if the cops see it).

Other than that have a great time, don't be freaked out by the traffic most drivers are very friendly and will back off to let you move over if you make a mistake in lanes etc.

potfish

bairn7 wrote: »

International Driving Permits are only really useful if your original licence is not in English.

I have hired cars a dozen or so times in the States with only my French driving licence. No need for an IDP. On the other hand, I did need an IDP for South Africa when I had a British licence. So the fact that it's in English or not is totally irrelevant.

socks_uk

I'm trying to find out if I need one for Canada as my Canadian father-in-law said I will when I go over there at Easter.

I'll keep searching for the correct info.

potfish

I have never needed one for Canada. Last tested Sept 08.

LeeSouthEast

Oops. Good job I didn't get stopped when I borrowed my sister's car over there. Even luckier, considering I had to stop a cop to ask for directions!!!

Note to self: Take driving license next time.