Do you need to take your birth certificate while traveling to Europe ? Thanks Richard
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area
5697 posts
Passport is proof of citizenship AND contains a recent picture. Leave the birth certificate home where it's safe. (Passport also contains date and place of birth, so it can prove your age if needed.)
But DO make sure to carry your driver's license, especially if you plan to rent a car. Truly, one person forgot hers a while back and it caused a HUGE disruption in her trip.
Posted by
NYC area
2908 posts
Hey Richard,
Do NOT take your birth certificate with you.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16893 posts
for more of the same, see https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/trip-planning/travel-documents.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32212 posts
richard,
A birth certificate isn't necessary for travel in Europe. A Passport is the most important document to have.
Posted by
white plains, ny, usa
4140 posts
In addition to your driver's license , it is wise to carry an International Driving Permit ( IDP ) as well
Posted by
Oak Park, Illinois
4535 posts
In addition to your driver's license , it is wise to carry an International Driving Permit ( IDP ) as well
Only if you will be driving and then in some countries it is legally required.
If not driving, the drivers license is of no real value anyway other than to leave as ID for audio guides.