International driving permit: what is it, and should you take it with you on a trip or while backpacking?

What is an International Driving Permit?

• An international Driving Permit (IDP) is an officially translated version of your National Driving License.
• The IDP allows you to prove abroad that you have a valid driving license.
• The international driving permit is usually not a replacement, but a supplement: you will always need your original driving license as well.
• The international driving license is valid for 1 year.
• Most countries have an official organisation to apply for an international driving permit.

What can you use an international driving permit for when traveling and backpacking?

• An international driving permit is useful, when you want to rent a car, scooter or motorcycle abroad.
• An IDP is handy, when you hitchhike and also want the option to take over the steering wheel.
• When local police or authorities ask for a translation of your driving license an IDP is what you need.
• For countries that do not recognize your country’s driving license or only accept your driving license, if there is an official translation.
• Do make sure that you always have your original driving license with you.
• In the EU, as an EU national, it is not necessary to take an international driving license with you.

When do you take an international driving license with you when traveling or backpacking? 

• When travelling abroad to countries that don't have an agreement with your country and you want to rent vehicles or drive bring your IDP.
• Different countries sometimes only accept different international driving permit translations.

Where can you buy an international driving permit while you’re travelling?

• It can be hard or often even impossible to get the official translation of your national driving license while you are travelling. Some countries offer online applications and shipment abroad, others offer applications through friends or family, but most countries don’t offer these services. 
• Some countries also offer local translations of your driving permit, which you can request when you are at your destination.
• The easiest is to apply for the International driving permit safely at home, with a passport photo, driving license and identification.

How can you insure an international driving permit through your travel insurance?

• The document itself cannot be insured separately.
• However: when you drive without a valid international driving permit in a country where it is mandatory, you can be held liable in the event of an accident – ​​and then your travel insurance and car insurance often refuse to pay out.