Driving around in another country can be a fantastic way to explore outside the usual tourist hotspots. Hiring a car can give you the freedom to travel around the countryside, visit smaller towns and stop wherever you want to.
However, driving in another country can sometimes be confusing.
Different rules to follow, not recognising the signs and driving on the opposite side of the road can all take some getting used to. Many people don’t think about the documents required to drive.
Your driving licence may need to be checked. Depending on where you are going, an International Driving Permit or translated licence may be useful.
When planning to drive abroad, some travellers also look into how to apply for idp online so they can arrange their driving documents before leaving home.
Getting your documents in order before your trip can help avoid any confusion.
Will My Driving Licence Be Accepted?
Probably the first thing to think about.
Many countries do allow you to drive using your current licence, however this can depend on where you got it from, how long you will be staying and what type of vehicle you want to drive.
If you are only visiting for a short period of time, then different rules may apply compared to if you are staying for several months.
You also need to take into consideration what the hire company require.
Even if your licence is recognised, they may ask you to provide extra documents to prove your driving details.
International driving documents can be very useful to have. This can help you when collecting your rental car or showing your licence in another country.
It can be a good idea to research what you need before booking your non-refundable hire. If you’re unsure about what you need, get in touch with the hire company and let them know what country your licence is from.
Not In English
This can cause some problems for some people.
Imagine arriving at the airport after a long flight. You’ve hired a car to drive around for the next 5 days but when you go to hand over your licence, the person at the desk cannot read what is written.
They will need to check your name, expiry date and what type of vehicles you’re allowed to drive.
If the information isn’t easy to understand, it can cause delays.
This is why many people organise an International Driving Permit or translated licence.
This will allow you to show your licence information in different languages, so it can be easily understood by someone in another country.
However, it is important to have your original licence with you.
If you know your licence may not be easy to read, it can be a good idea to get in touch with the hire company before your trip to see what they will accept.
Why Are International Driving Documents Useful?
Having your driving information clearly displayed whilst travelling can be very useful.
There are many terms when searching for international driving documents. International Driving Permit, international driver’s licence and certified driving licence translation. Whilst these may seem similar, they can actually be different.
An International Driving Permit can help present your driving details in different languages when travelling abroad. It can be useful to have alongside your domestic licence.
A certified translation, such as IAA's IAA-DLT, can also help present the information on your existing licence in another language.
Depending on what is accepted in the country you’re visiting, international driving documents can be useful.
If your licence is not in a common language in the country you’re visiting. It can be useful to have the information translated so it can be understood by the rental staff.
It can also be useful when travelling between countries. This will help you to have your driving information organised.
The most important thing to know is what document you’re organising and if it will be suitable for your trip.
International Driving Permits
If you plan on driving overseas, it can be a good idea to look into what driving documents are available.
If you're planning to apply for an International Driving Permit, it's worth finding out where to get started. The process will depend on where your licence was issued and what type of document you need.
You’ll usually need to provide information from your current licence. There may also be requirements to provide ID and a photo.
Before applying, make sure you know what type of document you’re applying for and how long it will be valid for.
If you plan on driving in several countries, make sure to check what is required in each country.
Organising your driving documents before your trip can help to avoid any issues whilst you’re away.
Can I Apply For An International Driving Document Online?
Most of us are used to booking our holidays online. We can easily book our flights, accommodation, travel insurance and car hire without having to visit an office.
Applying for your documents online can be very useful.
IAA offer a certified translation of your existing licence. This can be useful if you want to have your driving information translated.
If you like to have your travel documents on your phone, having a digital translation can be very useful. However, some may find it useful to have a physical copy in case someone needs to look at your information.
Having your documents ready will help take one thing off your mind whilst you’re on your trip.
Things To Consider When Applying Online
An international driving permit online application may seem easy, but there are a few things worth checking before you submit your details.
Before submitting your form make sure all your information is correct. This includes your name, licence number and expiry date.
You may be asked to upload a picture and licence copy. Ensure they are clear to read.
If you are travelling and would like a hard copy then make sure you give yourself enough time for it to arrive. IAA also provides a digital translation which can be useful to have on your phone.
Make sure to check what is accepted by your destination and hire company.
Don’t forget to take your original licence with you. The international driving documents are to help support your existing licence.
Driving In The UK
The UK is a great example of why it can be useful to check your driving documents.
If you’ve looked into an international driver's license uk, it can be useful to know what the driving requirements are.
This can depend on where your licence was originally issued from and your situation.
The UK Government offer an online service to help visitors check if they can use their existing licence in Great Britain.
It can also be a good idea to speak to the car hire company. If your licence isn’t in English, they may have certain documents they will accept.
Once your documents are organised, you’ll need to consider driving.
Driving on the opposite side of the road can be confusing if you’re used to driving on the right. Be careful when going round roundabouts, junctions and pulling out of car parks.
The roads can be quite narrow in the countryside and this can be a shock when visiting smaller villages.
Taking your time to get used to the local driving rules can help make your experience easier.
Check Your Hire Agreement
Not always what you expect to pay per day.
Before booking, make sure you know what is included in the insurance. Are there any mileage limits? How much will they hold as a deposit?
The age of the driver can affect the cost. Some companies charge extra for younger drivers or may not allow certain vehicles.
If you plan on crossing an international border, make sure the hire company allow this. You may need permission in advance or extra insurance.
When you collect your car, take a few minutes to check it over. Take photos of any existing scratches or damage.
This is a simple thing to do and can help avoid any arguments.
Get Your Documents Ready Before Travelling
Driving in another country can be a great experience. You can explore new places, visit smaller towns and travel at your own pace without having to stick to a fixed schedule.
But it's always better to have your documents organised before you leave.
Check your driving licence, look into the international driving documents available and make sure you know what the hire company will accept.
Having an International Driving Permit or translated licence ready can be useful, especially when you're travelling somewhere unfamiliar.
Once you've sorted everything out, you can spend less time worrying about paperwork and more time enjoying your trip.