Wednesday, September 15, 2010

International Driving Permits



Sometimes when you are traveling abroad it is helpful to be able to just get in a car and drive.  Unfortunately in most cases your U.S. driver's license isn't enough in a foreign country to legally drive.  What you need is an International Driving Permit.  International Driving Permits are not expensive costing about 15 dollars and requiring two passport quality photos when the application is filled with the American Automotive Association (click here for the application.)  It is important to note that the driving permit is valid for only one year and that many countries have limitations on how quickly you can re-enter the nation with a new permit.  Make sure you understand that fully because in some nations like Japan if you enter too quickly you can face a lifetime ban on the usage of international driving permits in the country.   It is a good idea to go over all laws in the locations you plan to drive in so as to avoid both accidentally breaking laws you didn't know existed as well as be aware of the penalties should you get in an accident and what sort of punishment you might be facing.  Also make sure that you have the proper insurance coverage for your vehicle in the nation you are driving in and don't just assume that even if you are driving to a country from the US that your insurance stateside will be valid once you cross that border. 

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