If you are from the US do you need to have an international drivers license to rent a car or is a valid U.S. license ok?
Posted by
US Pacific Northwest
10344 posts
Rick used to say, in his books covering the UK: "only a US driver license is needed."
But recently Rick changed his advice, saying:
"Although an IDP is not required if your US license has been renewed within the last year, play it safe and get one anyway."
(Rick Steves, Great Britain 2008, p. 651)
Posted by
Manchester
497 posts
Rules for foreign drivers depend on where your licence is issued. The List from the NZ AA is only accurate if you have a NZ issued licence, don't assume the rules are the same in all countries for a US licence.
US licence holders don't need an IDP to drive in the UK. Here is a link from our governments direct access internet portal with more details.
Direct.gov
Posted by
Jonesboro, Arkansas, USA
606 posts
The international drivers "license" is just a translation of information from your real drivers license into several languages. You still have to also carry your real drivers license.
Since a policeman in Spain might not be able to read the English on your home license, he looks at the Spanish section of the international booklet to determine your birth date, license expiration date, etc.
It's pretty safe to assume a UK policeman can decipher a drivers license from the USA without need for a translation. In theory, at least!
Posted by
Texas
518 posts
I had an international DL last year when I rented a car in the UK, but no one ever asked to see it.