Driving in other countries

By: Jack Nerad for Driving Today
Date: 2004-11-10

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Are you planning to drive in Greece in the near future, now that the crowds have dispersed following the Olympic Games? If so, you should be aware that you must obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before leaving if you plan to drive a car on your journey. Greece requires all foreign drivers who are legally licensed to drive in their home country to carry an IDP.

"Greece is one of a few countries to require an IDP for foreign drivers, but it's a good idea to obtain an IDP if you're planning to drive anywhere abroad," says Rose Rougeau, spokesperson of AAA Texas. "The Auto Club d'Italia has notified AAA that U.S. drivers must carry either an IDP or an Italian translation of their U.S. driver license issued in Italy by the Auto Club d'Italia or the U.S. Consulate."

In addition, AAA strongly recommends that U.S. drivers in Spain carry an IDP for translation purposes. Some U.S. motorists, without an IDP or an official Spanish translation of their U.S. driver license, have been stopped by police and fined 300 euros, about US$360. Only holders of valid driver licenses can purchase an IDP. AAA Texas sells IDPs to members and non-members for $10. (See our warning on Drivers.com about scams involving IDP sales.)

"With these new developments it makes sense to obtain an IDP before you depart if you are planning to drive while abroad," Rougeau says.

International Driving Permits were authorized in 1949 when the United States, one of 100 countries, signed the United Nations Convention on International Road Traffic. International Driving Permits are available at AAA locations throughout the U.S.

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