My Italian instructor suggested this, and it worked great. You know how you often have to leave some form of ID before you can do certain things in Italy? One good example is that some museums require that you leave a piece of ID before they will give you the audioguide. But aren't you a little worried you might forget to get it back or that they might lose it? Here's the tip: Take along an expired driver's license and use it. The Italians won't notice/care that it's expired, and you don't have to worry about them losing it or you forgetting to get it back. I did this on our last trip and no one ever called me out. Happy travels.
Posted by
Bromley, Kent,, UK
1829 posts
Using a photocopy for ID in these circumstances does not work. The whole point is to hand over ID that you value so there is an incentive to return the gizmo and not walk off with it.
Posted by
Gettysburg, PA
1589 posts
I have done this several times in renting bikes and tapes.
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
8174 posts
...if your State allows you to retain the expired license...otherwise, your drivers license in place of your passport works, or just sometimes a photocopy of your passport.
Posted by
Pa and Italy
4152 posts
I've never really worried about forgetting to return an audio guide or a bike rental. I don't mind giving them my drivers license and have never worried about them losing it. Donna
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32386 posts
Michael, That's a good suggestion, but won't work for me. I just renewed my D.L. When I applied for the renewal, they took my existing license and provided a temporary paper copy. My new license arrived in the mail in about a week.
Posted by
point pleasant beach, nj, usa
646 posts
I've used a copy of my passport several times with no problems. I've also used my current driver's license.