Do I need to have an internat. driver's permit to drive a rental car around Italy?
Yes, and they are about $15 at your local AAA.
There is a lot more information on this website about this topic. Type "international drivers, italy" in the search box at the top right and you'll find all sorts of good info.
Ashley, Eric is right.. this is a very popular topic... just as frequently asked as "Currency exchange", "Using ATM", and "Taking the eurorail".
If you search around the current posts, you can find your answers.
click here for the International driver's Permit application. Remember you need 2 photos (2x2) and you can get it at AAA or by mail. Sign the back of your photos!