On Monday, we reported that Florida will amend its controversial new law requiring foreign drivers to have an International Driving Permit (IDP). Given the strong public reaction, we at Auto123.com felt the need to explain what this document is all about.
What's an IDP?
The IDP is a special permit which allows motorists to drive around the world legally. It is proof that the holder possesses a valid driver's licence, issued by a competent authority, in his or her country of residence. In Canada, the only such organization is CAA.
The IDP provides you with additional photo identification and includes a multilingual translation of your Canadian driver’s licence. It is valid in all countries that have signed the 1949 Convention on Road Traffic, and is also recognized in many countries that are not signatories to the Convention.
Why would you need an IDP?
Certain countries require an IDP to rent a car or drive on the road. The multilingual translation also makes it useful when you travel to exotic locations where patrol officers speak neither English nor French.
Is it necessary in North America?
For Canadians who travel to the U.S. or Mexico, a standard driver's licence will suffice. There are two exceptions, Georgia and Florida, although the latter is deferring enforcement until an unspecified date.
How do you obtain an IDP?
All applicants must be 18 or older. Visit your local CAA club, or print the IDP Application Form and send it by mail. Attach two signed, full-face passport photographs, a payment of $25.00, and a two-face copy of your Canadian driver’s licence. Allow 2-3 weeks to receive your IDP.
Bottom line
An IDP can prove very handy, even where it is not mandatory by law. Every driver has to determine whether this document is relevant or not based on their destination.
What's an IDP?
The IDP is a special permit which allows motorists to drive around the world legally. It is proof that the holder possesses a valid driver's licence, issued by a competent authority, in his or her country of residence. In Canada, the only such organization is CAA.
The IDP provides you with additional photo identification and includes a multilingual translation of your Canadian driver’s licence. It is valid in all countries that have signed the 1949 Convention on Road Traffic, and is also recognized in many countries that are not signatories to the Convention.
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Why would you need an IDP?
Certain countries require an IDP to rent a car or drive on the road. The multilingual translation also makes it useful when you travel to exotic locations where patrol officers speak neither English nor French.
Is it necessary in North America?
For Canadians who travel to the U.S. or Mexico, a standard driver's licence will suffice. There are two exceptions, Georgia and Florida, although the latter is deferring enforcement until an unspecified date.
How do you obtain an IDP?
All applicants must be 18 or older. Visit your local CAA club, or print the IDP Application Form and send it by mail. Attach two signed, full-face passport photographs, a payment of $25.00, and a two-face copy of your Canadian driver’s licence. Allow 2-3 weeks to receive your IDP.
Bottom line
An IDP can prove very handy, even where it is not mandatory by law. Every driver has to determine whether this document is relevant or not based on their destination.