IDPs may not be valid the whole time you stay abroad and/or may only be valid with a U.S. driver's license, but most accept an International Driving Permit (IDP) that you can get from the AAA (American Automobile Association) before you leave.

Visit the website of the foreign embassy or consulate to find specific driver's license requirements. Check the International Travel Country Information page for your destination to find contact information for its foreign embassy or consulate.

It is illegal to drive without a valid license and insurance in most countries.

Insurance and driver’s license (see below).

Documents to carry, including any special road permits.

Vehicle safety considerations, including seat belts.

Potential hazards and dangerous road conditions.

Keep these things in mind when planning your trip: Get information from the website of the foreign embassy or consulate, foreign government tourism offices, or from a car rental company in the foreign country.

Read about road safety in the Travel and Transportation section for your destination country before you go. And remember to buckle up, no matter where you are. Poor road maintenance, lack of signs, vehicle safety, and insurance coverage are just some things you should consider. Are you thinking about driving in another country? Road conditions, laws, and driving norms in other countries can be very different from those in the United States.

International drive license