International driving permits

marvin, Certainly not for England (since an IDP primarily provides translation, I doubt there would be an issue with that). Regarding driving in Austria, I tend to follow principle that "And even in countries where it isn't required, the International Driving Permit is worth having just to make sure that your driver's license is accepted by local car-rental agencies and traffic police. Given the very reasonable cost, I travel with one every year (just renewed at BCAA on Apr. 30). Note than an IDP must be accompanied by your home D.L. Cheers!

I agree with Ken. You don't need it, but for a small amount of money you have piece of mind and a nice little souvenir!

Yes for Austria (plus an Autobahn vignette AND a reflective safety vest) From the U.S. State Department (probably same for Canadian drivers): http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_965.html "A U.S. driver's license alone is not sufficient to drive in Austria. You must also get an international driver's permit (obtainable in the U.S. from American Automobile Association and the American Automobile Touring Alliance) or by an official translation of the U.S. driver's license, which can be obtained at one of the Austrian automobile clubs (OEAMTC or ARBOE). This arrangement is only acceptable for the first six months of driving in Austria, after which all drivers must obtain an Austrian license. Austria requires all vehicles using the autobahn to display an "Autobahn Vignette" highway tax sticker on the inside of the vehicle's windshield. The sticker may be purchased at border crossings, gas stations in Austria, and small "Tabak" shops located in Austrian towns. Fines for failing to display a valid autobahn vignette on the windshield of your car are usually around $150."