Hi, I am renting a car in my daughter's name for our family's travels in parts of Italy for this June. In reading the fine print of this voucher, I noticed that one of the mandatory documents is for the driver (my daughter) to have an International Driving Permit. I am reaching out to see if anyone knows the easiet and best way to obtain this permit. My daughter has a full time job, and going to a DMV for this is usually a day long process in our city. If anyone knows if there is a better way, please let me know. Also, if you know how long this takes and the fee for this permit, that would be very helpful. Thank you, Linda
Posted by
martinez, ca, usa
2422 posts
hey hey linda
AAA/ automobile clubs do them. bring 2 passport size photos (they take them too), about $25-30, and receive same day. depending how many in line and how short staff, I’d ask. Good for a year
make sure she has a license not a temporary permit to drive. anyone else driving needs one too.
aloha
Posted by
OP
new orleans
237 posts
This is such good news. I can't thank you enough for taking the time to share your knowledge about this. Have a wonderful day!
Posted by
Boston
1807 posts
Check that the credit card requirements on the rental conform to your situation. I believe the car rental companies typically require the renter to be the cardholder and to be present.
Posted by
Colorado Springs
3031 posts
"I believe the car rental companies typically require the renter to be the cardholder and to be present."
Excellent point. Need to be especially mindful of this if your intention is to make a 3rd party reservation in your daughter's name, otherwise she may be in for an unpleasant surprise when trying to collect the vehicle.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23650 posts
There also could be an age restriction on the rental. Her US driver's license MUST accompany the IDP. She has to have both documents with her at all times. I believe that ONLY the AAA offices can provide the IDP. I don't think any other agency is authorized in the US. And why are you making her drive????
Posted by
martinez, ca, usa
2422 posts
thanks mike
please check that linda, your daughter either has credit card in her name or put her as second driver. happened to me in Seattle in June meeting my niece. paid with my card and she had to be put on as second driver, (she’s always my designated and loves driving)
as Mike says, check credit card rules, is she over 26 years old and if a fee if not. so many changes with this pandemic.
aloha
Posted by
OP
new orleans
237 posts
You all are so nice to jump in with all this info. I did make the reservations under my daughter’s name but psi’s for it with my credit card. I can’t be a driver because I’m way past the age requirement (81 - but still going strong!). I have passed on the info about AAA to my daughter & she’s on it. Again, thank u all!
Posted by
Gettysburg PA
7288 posts
Linda
Do make sure your daughter (and any other drivers) do their homework and know all the ins and outs of driving in Italy.
Those that don’t often get lots of nasty expensive surprises in their mailbox in the months following their trip
Posted by
OP
new orleans
237 posts
Such good advice. A few years ago, we rented a car in Rome to drive to Amalfi. I had contracted for a certain amount (again giving my daughter's name). When she went to pick up the car, it was more than 3 times as much, but she didn't know how to handle it, & we were all in a hurry to get to our destination. This time, I have prepaid for the car, have complete assurances that there will be no extra fees, & I plan to accompany my daughter for the pick up to make sure there are no surprises. I love Italy, but, like everywhere, there can be some slick operators...
Posted by
Gettysburg PA
7288 posts
I am referring to traffic violations- speeding tix, ZTLs, parking etc
Some good info here
http://driventoit.blogspot.com/2015/01/driving-in-italy-including-dreaded-ztls.html?m=1
To avoid any rental problems we ALWAYS rent thru AutoEurope.com
A US based consolidator with stellar customer service
Posted by
OP
new orleans
237 posts
Oh. I see. I certainly will be very careful in that regard. Thank u
Posted by
Los Angeles
4874 posts
Yes it comes from the Auto Club, be aware she will need small passport-type photos (probably 2).
Posted by
lexington, il
4105 posts
Have your daughter download & Print this free comprehensive PDF located at the bottom of the page.
https://italybeyondtheobvious.com/custom-italy-vacations/what-to-do-and-see-in-italy/
Posted by
martinez, ca, usa
2422 posts
hey hey linda
have you guys been to italy before? what are your interests and what parts are you going to see?
how many going and do you have places to stay?
be careful with car you rent for luggage space for all. you got lots of good info here. plus make sure about you covid-19 tests, vax and boosters, know what is needed to have a fabulous fun time
aloha
Posted by
Minnesota 🎒
16662 posts
have you guys been to italy before?
Just FYI that the OP said they'd been to Italy before + also rented a car. From a previous post:
A few years ago, we rented a car in Rome to drive to Amalfi
Yep, keep an eye on the COVID mandates but it's way too early to know what those may be by June. 😉