Passport AND Driver's License Needed?

@Frank: Yes, I suppose he is. I guess I have never rented one of those devices.... so maybe that's why it has never come up for me. And yes, I would much rather leave something other than my passport.

I appreciate all of your insights. I think I will bring the driver's license and keep it separate from my passport. Many thanks to each of you!

My suggestion is bring it and keep it separate from your passport with a photocopy of your passport. But no it is not needed.

A driver's license is also useful for when you are renting an autoguide at museums/art galleries. You need to leave an ID or credit card at the rental booth.

I don't even HAVE a driver's license (or, until very recently, a state ID). I go to Europe twice a year. Have never missed having a license, have never been asked for one.

But Chuck is still correct. Often if you rent a device, they will ask for some type of security such as a driver's license, credit card, etc., or passport. I would rather leave a driver's license than a passport or credit card.

I bring my DL just for that reason,, in the Louvre they just stick your passport in an open file box that any employee can assess, I think its careless frankly,, i give them my DL instead. And, btw , the audio guides are worth it,, otherwise you just wander through not really clued in to what you are seeing, True the audio guides only cover some exhibits, but the tibits of info they offer often make a ho hum piece so much more interesting. Also i prefer to leave my passport in hotel safe,, not having to carry it around with me is great. ( and thats what I have done for last 40 years so won't change that,, lol )

Thank you, Pat. Good info. I appreciate it.

You may not NEED your driver's license. I bring both for several reasons: You may choose to rent a car that you hadn't planned on. It's often accepted as deposit on things like bike rentals so you can keep your passport with you. It's easier to carry in a coat or pants pocket. Although it's not officially considered ID in Europe, many will accept it so you don't have to produce your passport from your moneybelt (not hotels though).

And lastly, if you forget and leave the driver's license behind - or a staff person mislays it- it is an easy thing to replace when you get home. If your passport goes astray, it will put a lot of gloom into your trip.

More great feedback. This Travelers Helpline is awesome. Now I understand that I don't NEED to have the license with me but it may prove very helpful to have. I am going to take it. I leave for Europe tonight. Thank you to all who replied!

Have a great trip! Bon voyage.