Do I need an International Driving Permit?
We ask RAA’s Adelaide and Mount Barker Shop Team Manager Jo Gentilcore why it’s important to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) before getting behind the wheel overseas.
An IDP is a permit that allows Australian tourists to drive overseas without needing to sit a driving test or complete a licence application.
The document translates your capability to drive and the details of your valid Australian driver’s licence into nine languages – English, French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, Arabic, Greek, German and Japanese.
Valid for 12 months from the date of issue, an IDP can be used on multiple holidays and in countless countries within that timeframe. More than 150 countries require an IDP. Sometimes, car hire companies require an IDP before you can collect your rental car and, in the case of an accident, some insurers may not honour the claim if you’re not carrying your IDP.
It’s important to be aware that there are a handful of countries, such as China and Vietnam, that don’t recognise either an IDP or your Australian licence.
In these countries travellers must apply for a local, temporary licence. Your IDP isn’t a replacement for your Australian drivers licence but an accompaniment.
Don’t forget to always carry your Australian driver’s licence while driving overseas too.
If you’re planning to hire a car while travelling overseas, you may want to consider taking out travel insurance that covers rental car excess. RAA international travel insurance has different levels of cover to choose from, which include cover for rental car excess# (except the Basics cover). Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), available on the RAA website, to understand the terms and conditions of travel insurance. The PDS outlines the inclusions and exclusions, helping you clearly understand what your policy covers.
This insurance is issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd. ABN 80 000 438 291 (Tokio Marine), AFSL 246548. Royal Automobile Association of South Australia Limited (ACN 677 371 274, AR 000228575) acts as an authorised representative of the issuer and receives a commission which is a percentage of the premium paid and may also receive a portion of the underwriting profit. Any advice is general advice. Consider the Combined Financial Services Guide and Product Disclosure Statement, and Target Market Determination, available on the RAA website when deciding whether to purchase this product. #Terms and Conditions, Limits and Sub-limits apply.
Need an International Driving Permit?
RAA’s the only organisation in SA authorised to issue IDPs. Get your permit instore or online.