Who knew? Italy requires an IDP to drive?! I have been researching my trip for MONTHS and how is it that I just now am reading this?! I am reading that I can get one at AAA, but my shuttle will be here in 7 minutes. Can anyone enlighten me on where I can get an IDP in Italy? Should I panic?

Heather

You cannot get it in Italy.
No reason to panic, just do not get stopped in Italy.

Thanks, bobthenavigator. After my knee-jerk reaction of an emergency posting, I searched the forums and found a wealth of information, though varying opinions. I will have to take my chances, I guess! Picking up the car in Vicenza, so hoping they won't be as diligent in checking as say...the airport. Eep! Again, not sure how I have missed this in all my reading and researching. Nothing like a last minute hitch to get your blood pumping!

Or be in an accident or hope the hire company won't ask for it or be pulled over in a random check...

Last time I picked up a car in Italy I had to show them my IDP. I've read you can get one from the Italian Auto Club, but not sure it's true. You might try that if you have issues picking up the car.

In Italy the issuer of International Driving Permits is the Motorizzazione Civile dei Transporti in Concessione (Ministry of Transports). The Permit can be also requested at ACI outlets that do this service on behalf of the Motorizzazione Civile.

ACI is the Italian Auto Club.
http://www.aci.it/

http://www.aci.it/viaggia-con-noi/dr...motorists.html

Here's a link with some info:

http://wiki.sissa.it/students/index....er%27s_license

From the site above:

"In general as a non EU national you cannot legally drive in Italy with your home country driving license unless:

either you obtained from your home country an International driving license or permit (permesso internazionale di guida)
or you obtained a certified translation (by an Italian consulate abroad or by your home country consulate in Italy) of your driving license (you must ask for clarification and specific directions concerning your country to the relevant Italian embassy)."

According to this your best bet is to head for the nearest consulate or the Embassy.