Florida - International Driving Permit?

soapstar88

Hi,

Hopefully someone has been in the same situation as me recently and will know exactly what I need!

We are flying to Orlando this Monday and are very confused to what driving documentation we require. We were planning on taking the plastic card part of my licence and also this DVLA code thing. Now i have come across something called an International Driving Permit (IDP) which seems to be required in the USA according to the Post Office? Ive done some research online and a lot of people are saying you dont need it anymore?

Can anyone please help us out with what exactly we need to take with us? We are hiring from Alamo.

Thanks!

jonathon

we go a week on Monday, I don't think you need one but for the cost I got one just to be on the safe side

EssexExile

I rent from Alamo in Orlando often, you don't need an International driving permit. Just have the plastic driving licence for anyone you want to be able to drive.

I've been driving in the States since 1978 & never needed the IDP.

PeacefulWaters

I've driven four times in the USA and never needed a permit.

Is Florida different?

jackieblack

The requirement for an IDP in Florida was a not-very-bright idea someone had a couple of years ago and which lasted from 1st Jan 2013 to mid-February before there was a massive U-turn and the requirement was abolished. (It was all to do with FHP not being able to read driving licences issued in any language other than English). It only lasted about 6 weeks and hasn't been required before or since.

ETA Found the thread from Feb 2013 - https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/4444395

eDicky

The IDP has been virtually obsolete for over 20 years, except for a few countries that still do not accept a national licence. For USA you can forget it.

pollypenny

Never needed an IP. We're never asked for the paper part of the licence, either.

If you're renting with Alamo or Avis a spouse can also drive for no extra. They sometimes, ie usually, forget to tell you this.

steve1500

We hired a car from Alamo Orlando last month, all they wanted was my licence, although I did have the code from DVLA

soapstar88

Thanks for the helpful replies everyone. Just to confirm we did not need anything apart from my UK driving licence (Card not paper licence).

A very easy process with Alamo, recommended!

bairn7

I rented in Florida earlier this year. No International Driving permit is required (it's usually only required if your licence is not in English). I'd take a DVLA code but I've found that, so, for no rental company has asked for it. Card-part of your licence is all that you need. I still take my paper part just in case though. Have never been asked for it in 6+ years of renting in the US!

bairn7

Apologies...should've read all the way down the thread!!