International Driving Permit: Validity in the Netherlands and Abroad
As a driver, if you intend to rent and drive a vehicle abroad, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP). The international driving permit serves as an official translation of the information on your driver’s license into multiple languages. It’s important to understand that the IDP is not a standalone document for driving authorization; rather, it complements your driver’s license. The IDP itself does not confer validity and is only useful outside the EU, allowing you to drive in other countries without the need for a local driving test.
What is an International Driving Permit?
An international driving permit does not serve as an autonomous driving authorization. Possessing only an international driving permit does not automatically grant you the right to drive. Essentially, it functions as a translation of the information on your driver’s license. This supplementary document ensures that foreign traffic authorities can understand and interpret your license information, even if they do not speak your own language. With an international driving permit, you simply demonstrate that you hold a valid driver’s license, clarifying which vehicles you are authorized to drive and under what conditions.
What are the costs of an International Driving Permit?
International driving permits are not available through government agencies. Fortunately, we offer a convenient solution on our website. You can obtain an international driving permit starting from 19.95, depending on the applicable model. View the prices here. Applying for an international driving permit is simple and easy; you can do it online. Ensure you have a valid driver’s license and a recent passport photo on hand. Upon completing the application, the international driving permit will be produced quickly and efficiently and delivered to your home. Additionally, it’s also possible to purchase a digital document if you are already abroad.
Here are some common holiday destinations where you may need an international driving permit:
When do you need an International Driving Permit?
While EU residents are generally permitted to drive within all EU countries with their EU driver’s license, some countries may require an international driving permit in addition to the official license of the home country. You can check the countries participating in the 1949 convention and those accepting the international driving permit on the following Wikipedia page on international driving permits.
The international driving permit may be mandatory to rent a car abroad, especially in countries where the driver, rather than the car, is insured. This can be enforced in three ways:
- The government of the respective country requires the international driving permit.
- Although the international driving permit is not mandatory, it is recommended.
- In some countries, an international driving permit is not required.
International Driving Permit Regulations
Driving regulations regarding international driving permits (IDPs) vary depending on the country you’re visiting. However, here are some general guidelines:
In many countries, including the Netherlands, a valid foreign driver’s license is usually sufficient for non-residents to drive, provided they do not stay for an extended period, often limited to six months. The foreign license should correspond to categories A, B, C, D, and E of the Vienna Convention.
For non-EU residents whose driver’s licenses are in a non-Roman script, an international driving permit from their country of origin may be required in addition to their regular license.
If your stay in a country exceeds six months, you may need to obtain a local driver’s license or meet specific requirements, such as exchanging your foreign license for a local one.
Traveling abroad? In many countries outside the European Union, alongside your regular driver’s license, an international driving permit might be mandatory. You can easily apply for this permit through various channels, including online platforms. This document may be requested if you’re a non-resident planning to drive a vehicle during your visit. When renting a car, you’ll typically need to present both your valid driver’s license and international driving permit.
Always ensure you’re aware of the specific driving regulations and requirements of the country you’re visiting to avoid any legal issues or complications while driving abroad.
