Do both me and my husband need an international driver's license while in Italy? We both will probably drive but I'm confused if it's an actual law or a scam? Erica
Posted by
Chicago
2876 posts
Not an international drivers license, but an international driving permit, IDP for short. Yes, it's a requirement in Italy. You get them at any AAA office. They'll cost you about $15 each.
Posted by
OP
Boulder
20 posts
Got it, thanks :)
Posted by
Oak Park, Illinois
4535 posts
Just a few more points of clarification. The IDP is a translation and verification of your state drivers license. So you must have your license with you. Sometimes the rental agency will require it and sometimes you'll never pull it out of your wallet. If you are pulled over or in an accident, the officer most likely will require it. Since some states have stickers and other means of renewing a license without getting a new license (with a new date on it), the IDP verifies that your license is valid. AAA is the authorized provider of the IDP in the US.
Posted by
Cesena, Italy
791 posts
Yup, law! Even without an accident or violation you could be pulled over in a random stop and you will be asked for it.
Posted by
Long Beach, CA, USA
360 posts
you may never be asked to show it but yes it is the law and is required.