Does a European need a special permit to drive in America? My son-in-law is coming from Germany and will want to drive around.

No, a valid driverslicence is o.k. But...check with your insurancecompany about the coverage when he drives.

No. My Italian husband drove all around Florida and it was fine. He just needs his valid German license.
But yes, you will have to pay extra for insurance. Check that.

American companies don't rent to young drivers. Most companies require you to be at least 21 (big fee charged for this age) and some you must be 25.

If he is an occasional driver of your car, chances are that your insurance company will provide coverage.

If you are talking about his renting an automobile I would definitely check with the rental company about drivers license requirements.

Here is a quote from Alamo:

International renters must present a valid readable un-expired license from their country of residence. <b>If the country of residence is not in English, an un-expired International Drivers license must be presented in conjunction with their country of residence license</b>. (emphasis mine)

OK, we should be fine. He can use my car

Thanks y'all

I believe that whether an International Drivers Permit is needed is up to the individual state.

Tell that to Alamo, Alan.

Getting an International Drivers Licence is easy in Germany. If he has already got that new plastic card type of drivers licence, this would take him a couple of minutes (and a few Euros) at the F&uuml;hrerscheinstelle. The IDL is no more than an official translation. Tell him to get one at home in Germany, and all troubles will be settled.