How to get an international driving licence

Getting your international driver's licence, also known as an International Driving Permit (IDP), takes a few simple steps here in Australia.

Before embarking on your next trip, make sure to not forget this important item on your checklist if you plan on driving whilst overseas.

If however, you are planning on travelling for an extended period of time, or rather moving overseas you may need to apply for a local driver's licence.

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What is an International Driving Permit?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) serves as a translated version of a driver's license, meaning it doesn't hold validity on its own.

It must be paired together with a valid driver's licence to allow you to drive a vehicle overseas.

When travelling it is common for rental car companies and local authorities to require you to hold an IDP to rent or drive a vehicle.

That being said, while in some countries it’s not always a requirement it’s always better for peace of mind to have one. For example, different states in the US operate under different regulations, so you don’t want to be caught out if you’re travelling between regions.

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How to apply for an International Driving Permit

All Australian IDPs are processed through the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) and can be purchased through a local state or territory motoring club, such as the RACV or NRMA.

To avoid purchasing counterfeit permits or licenses, it’s best to apply through the AAA or the motoring club retail stores, as they are the only authorised provider of international licences in Australia.

The licence itself is valid for 12 months from the date of issue and is recognised in over 150 countries.

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What will you need to apply for the permit?

To apply for an International Driving Permit (either online or at a motoring club branch) you’ll require the following:

• A recent headshot that meets the requirements of the Australian Passport office [↗]
• Your Australian driver licence
• Payment method – either card for online payment or to pay in store

If you’re on a time crunch leading up to your trip you can apply for an IDP and get one on the spot at your local motoring club retail store providing you have all the above requirements on hand.

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How much will it cost?

The current fee via the Australian Automobile Association [↗] website is $49 plus postage.

The in-store fees are the same when visiting a retail premises such as your local NRMA branch.

Will I still need to carry my driver licence?

Since the IDP on its own isn't a licence, you will still need to have your state-issued driver's licence with you when travelling.

It will need to be your physical card as Australian digital identification is not currently recognised in most overseas locations.