Anyone know anything about an International Drivers License? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Rahulio1989300E · #1 07-09-2009, 06:55 PM

I just got finished watching the Top Gear where they set off to find the greatest driving road in the world.

Before I die, preferably while there are still fun internal combustion engine cars around to drive I was hoping to plan a month or two long trip driving exotic to near exotic super cars and sports cars on a few of the best roads offered by this world.

The first step aside from about $30K is probably an international drivings license.

I was wondering if anyone who frequents the OP forum has already done research into this matter themselves.

What all is involved? If no one posts, I will be sure to follow up with what my research reveals.

Thanks!

Chas H · #2 07-09-2009, 06:56 PM

There is no such thing. It's a scam.
http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/scams/license.asp

DieselAddict · #3 07-09-2009, 07:06 PM

The license itself is not a scam. Read the link. My dad who lives in Europe has one to drive here when he comes over. Like the link says it's more or less a translation of your existing license or just a document showing you have a valid license from your country of origin. It must accompany your original license. From what he said getting one is cheap & easy, but I don't know where in the US one could get it. I'm sure you can look it up or contact your local DMV.

Chas H · #4 07-09-2009, 07:31 PM

I've driven all over Europe, and I have been stopped by the police, and my state issued drivers license was just fine.
If you read the link, it mentions an International Drivers *Permit*, but it's just a convenience item and is not required and confers no extra legal standing on the bearer. But, if I was a visitor to the US, I would probably carry one. The police in many areas can barely read English, let alone a foreign language.

DieselAddict · #5 07-09-2009, 08:03 PM

It's always good to check the individual country's law pertaining to international licenses. True, some countries don't require them or may require them only from people of certain countries. For example, my brother with his Australian license had no trouble renting & driving a car in the US. But my dad with his Czech license does have an international license to accompany his original when he comes over. If you do a lot of traveling, it might be easier to just get the international license and stop worrying about where it's needed.

MTI · #6 07-09-2009, 08:54 PM

You Don't Want an International Driver's License . . . You Want One from Poland!

HE WAS one of Ireland’s most reckless drivers, a serial offender who crossed the country wantonly piling up dozens of speeding fines and parking tickets while somehow managing to elude the law.

So effective was his modus operandi of giving a different address each time he was caught that by June 2007 there were more than 50 separate entries under his name, Prawo Jazdy, in the Garda Pulse system. And still not a single conviction.

kip Foss · #7 07-09-2009, 09:28 PM

Ask the AAA.

280EZRider · #8 07-09-2009, 11:10 PM

I've used my States issued license in both foreign countries where I have lived, Russia & Mexico, and had no problem. People from other countries use the international license more than we do. The only restriction I know of is that after living here more than 3 months, a state license must be obtained.

Phil · #9 07-10-2009, 10:50 AM

I got one back in the late 70s and all I did was go into the local AAA office and they set me up. As I remember it didn't cost me anything at that time.

TX76513 · #10 07-10-2009, 11:06 AM

Tripple A - they used to be $10 the last time I got one.

Txjake · #11 07-10-2009, 11:41 AM

Triple A...

kerry · #12 07-10-2009, 11:57 AM

Has anyone mentioned AAA? I think you need a photo. They'll take one for you and charge you for it.

DieselAddict · #13 07-10-2009, 01:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 280EZRider

I've used my States issued license in both foreign countries where I have lived, Russia & Mexico, and had no problem. People from other countries use the international license more than we do.

Makes sense, as English is relatively the most understood language in the world. I don't think you could do much worldwide travelling with say a Mongolian driver's license. Still, I wouldn't assume a US driver's license will be recognized in every single country.

Jim B. · #14 07-10-2009, 01:13 PM

In traffic Court in Bakersfield last month, where, several times, illegal aliens
presented them, to the California TrafficCourt judge, who immediately asked them:

"Show me an accompanying Valid passport with a current stamped valid visa inside."

Not of them could.

They were summarily convicted of the "driving with out a license charge"

EVERY time.

DieselAddict · #15 07-10-2009, 01:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jim B.

In traffic Court in Bakersfield last month, where, several times, illegal aliens
presented them, to the California TrafficCourt judge, who immediately asked them:

"Show me an accompanying Valid passport with a current stamped valid visa inside."

Not of them could.

They were summarily convicted of the "driving with out a license charge"

EVERY time.

Good. I hope they got deported too but I'm guessing not.

I think it was understood by all here that an international driver's license is not the same thing as a valid visa & passport.