International Drivers Permit

In Italy it is mandatory. It will cost you $15 or $20, that's all, a tiny fraction of the total cost of your trip.

Where do we get the IDP?

AAA is one source.

Everything that has been said is true. However, when I am driving in any country in Europe, and I will be going to Italy I will get a IDP. I have even bought it for other countries that might not require it, but this way there will not be any questions.

Mandatory in Italy. Can be obtained from your local AAA office.

brenda, as the others have mentioned, an International Driver's Permit is COMPULSORY for driving in Italy (and some other countries). This must be used in conjunction with your home D.L. The IDP basically provides a translation of the terms of your normal D.L. Drivers can be fined ON THE SPOT for failing to produce an IDP if requested. While no one here has reported any fines so far, it's a good idea to pack along an IDP, especially considering the very reasonable cost. ¶ You can obtain the IDP at AAA offices. A Passport-sized photo is required (AAA office are sometimes set up to take the photos), and the IDP is valid for one year. EACH DRIVER must have an IDP. ¶ While off-topic from your question, you might want to research some of the Posts here regarding the dreaded ZTL zones which are becoming very prevalent in man towns in Italy. Happy travels!

You can also get the IDP online, albeit at a much higher price. This link might help clarify **** http://tinyurl.com/Italy-IDP *****

The conflicting info might be the term, international drivers license, which was sort of a scam several years back. But, as others have said, the IDP is mandatory in Italy but is not a requirement to rent a car.

Just got my IDP at a local AAA office for my trip to Italy. It took about 10 minutes for the clerk to take a picture and fill out the paperwork.