Help with International Driver's Permit

Thanks for the advice. I may call back or call a different office. The only problem with applying for the application by mail is that we are going next week.

The only thing with the IDL that would be different for a non member is that they would have to pay for the passport pic...members get one free each year. Otherwise it is not a member only service.

Hello Alice,

My own experience....it took 15 minutes and they can take the picture right at the site. I think I paid $23 for the permit and picture.

Good luck.

Eric

Alice - only answering the question of "will we be able to rent the car" - it has been my experience that the car rental company does not want to see your Intl Drivers Permit. It WILL require you to show your valid state driver's license. We have rented in Italy including a few years ago without a permit. But as others have said, it is required by some, not all, European countries - Italy is one that requires it. My understanding is that you may get in trouble if you are stopped by the police, but not in actually renting your car.

My husband has always gotten his permit at AAA and we have never been members. Do call back and clarify that. I do recommend you have them. We have traveled close to 20 weeks in Europe in the last few years. In the 140 days we drove, we "had to have" the permit one day...but boy were we glad we had it on that one day.

You don't need a membership to get an International Driving Permit from AAA, and they can do it while you wait. That's bogus information they gave you.