Driving Abroad:
It is illegal to drive without a valid license and insurance in most countries. Many countries do not recognize U.S. driver’s licenses. Most, however, will accept an International Driver’s License. International Driver’s License is valid if presented along with a valid U.S. or Native Driver’s License. So it is a good idea to plan ahead and check on the requirements for using your current license or qualifying for a local driver’s license in the country you will be visiting or residing in.
Before departure, you can obtain an IDL by applying online at https://www.idltravel.com/APPLICATION
Tips on Driving Abroad:
•Obtain an International Driver’s License (IDL).
•Carry both your IDL and your Native Driver’s License with you at all times, since many countries have different driving rules.
•Try to obtain a copy of the foreign country’s driving laws before you begin driving in that country.
•Information may be available from the country’s embassy or consulates in the United States, foreign government tourism offices, or from a car rental company in the foreign country.
•Certain countries require special road permits instead of tolls to use their divided highways (the equivalent of our interstate highway system). Authorities may fine those found driving without a permit.
•Always “buckle up.” Some countries have penalties for people who violate the seat-belt law.
•If you rent a car, make sure you have sufficient liability insurance.
•If the drivers in the country you are visiting drive on the left side of the road, it may be prudent to practice driving in a less populated area of the destination country before attempting to drive in heavy traffic.
•Always know the route you will be traveling. Have a good road map, and chart your course before beginning.
•Use common road safety sense: Do not pick up hitchhikers or strangers, and be aware of your surroundings when entering or exiting your vehicle.
It is important to familiarize yourself with the traffic regulations and security concerns of each country, as they vary from country to country and state to state.