international license

You need an International Drivers Permit (not license). It is a translation of your valid US license into several languages. It is required in Italy. You can get one at an AAA office. You will need two passport size photos and $15-20. If you will have more than one driver, each driver needs one.

Yes.
The proper name is International Driver's Permit (IDP) and can be obtained from your local Automobile Association for about $20 and two photos (which they can take for you there for an additional $15-20). The IDP is nothing but a translation of driver's license in multiple languages. Your drivers' license must be carried also in conjunction with the ADP.

Yes, we do recommend it.

In Italy it is required. You most likely won't have to produce it when you pick up your rental, but if you have any sort of incident with the car and don't have it I've heard you will get fined on the spot. It's not worth breaking the law to save about $20.

It is more than recommended. It is required.

laurie,

As the others have mentioned, although you may never be asked to produce it, an International Driver's Permit is compulsory for driving in Italy. One important point to note is that an I.D.P. is NOT a license per se, and must be used in conjunction with your home D.L. so you'll need to pack that along as well.

You may find it helpful to have a look at THIS website for lots of good information on I.D.P.'s.

Thanks everyone!!! Wish our travel agent had mentioned this since we leave next week!

When you go to AAA it only takes a few minutes (barring a wait for your turn) and you walk out with it. The IDP is good for one year from the date of issuance.

I just get my photo taken there. It eliminates having to go somewhere else for it.