Is there any benefit of getting international driver's license for traveling except the use of driving?

Is there any benefit of getting international driver's license for traveling except the use of driving? - Attentive female driver in casual outfit and headband filling up modern automobile with automotive fuel gun on petrol station while looking down

I wonder there is any advantage of getting an international driver's license in regard to traveling specifically.

I have an experience of being stopped to get through the immigration, and in the inspection room, I was asked to submit in my driver's license. It was neither an international driver's license nor written in English, but since it included my photograph, I got liberated from the interrogation.

Another situation my driver's license rescued me was when I contracted a SIM card in Taipei. The staff asked me to submit in another ID card attached with my photo as well as my passport, and my driver's license worked there.

So I wonder however, that if there is any advantage to getting an international driver's license, except the use of driving (I never drive). I faced one situation that the international driver's license worked while the normal license didn't; it was when I tried to open a bank account in Citi Hong Kong, and I was declined as I didn't have the international license.

But IMHO it is less related to traveling. So is there any merit of getting it in regard to traveling specifically?



Best Answer

Not really and answer but a data point: I've had an international licence for over 20 years and have visited about 30-40 different countries since then. I haven't used the international licence a single time. Granted, I also have two national licences and two passports.




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Why do you need an International Driving Permit?

In some countries the IDP is voluntary, but it's worth having for the reasons mentioned above, especially because some foreign car rental firms can refuse to let you hire a car without one. In others it is a legal requirement to carry an IDP, and you can get in trouble for driving without it.

What countries require an international driving permit?

International Driving Permits are Required* in the following countries for US Licensed Drivers: Austria, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, and Spain. *IDP enforcement may vary based upon car rental supplier as well as renting country.

How long is an international Drivers License valid in the US?

All U.S. states recognize foreign drivers' licenses. In most cases, your license will be valid for up to 4 months after the date you enter the U.S. Consult the DMV in the state where you wish to drive to confirm the length of validity and the rules for driving with a foreign driver's license.

Do I need international drivers license in Canada?

You do not need an international driving license for Canada. Canada does recognize a valid U.S. driver's license if you're a temporary visitor. However, if you're planning to extend your stay\u2014that is, remain in Canada over 90 days\u2014you will have to get an international driving permit (IDP) before you arrive.




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