International drivers license

Italy requires you have an international driver's permit, available at your local AAA office for about $15 plus a couple of passport-sized photos.

Understand it's a permit, not a license. It's just a translation of your state-issued license so police know what the numbers mean. You still need your state license. After a lot of discussion last year, participants on this board agreed it's necessary in Italy - you're subject to a fine on the spot if you don't have one.

Although I was never asked for mine, no one can predict whether there will be an accident or even a random stop on the road. In those cases, I would want my IDP handy.

The IDP is really easy to get and inexpensive. I picked mine up a AAA.

pretty much every trip in Tuscany we've had the random road stops. You come around a turn and there they are beside the road, they wave you over to the side and ask for ID.

The IDP is only valid for one year, correct? Now is that one year from issue or one year starting Jan 1st? Does anyone know? I don't have one at the moment.

Thanks,

F/A

One year from date of issue.