International Drivers License
 

Should I get an International Drivers License to drive in Italy? I seem to get conflicting information on the subject. What do most Americans do when they go over?

We got one for my husband when we went last year; never was asked for it, but it seemed like a good idea if we were ever in an accident. Seems like if you were in an accident, having one could make a difference to the officer.

yes get it. it makes it much easier when you are stopped at a road watch and less hastle to rent cars also. if you are stopped in a rural area the translated portion of the licience is helpfut to the local police who may or may not speak english. its simple and inexpensive. go to the nearest AAA taakes about 10 minutes to do

I drove all over Tuscany without one, was never stopped, was never asked at car rental.

Myth, used to be necessary about 20 years ago. Not any more, as long as you have a driver's license that is not expired and proof of insurance, either through the car agency you rented car from or some documents from Citibank Visa or any other major credit card that offers coverage abroad. <BR><BR>Before I travel I always ask Citibank to mail me copy of their coverage abroad as far as insurance related items.

As far as I can tell they are a rip-off. we were stopped by the police (a whole story in itself) in Krakow and were so frazzled that we forgot we had the international license and just pulled out the regular ones. In Romania our parked car was hit and we had to go to the local police station and insurance company (another story in itself) and once again our regular licenses were enough. So I say, save the money. Plus, a couple times wer were told that car rental agencies would ask for them. We've rented in Luxembourg, germany, Hungary and Frtance and have never been asked.

Any others with this experience? I am also wondering...

It's not true that International Licenses are totally useless. It depends on the country, especially in Asia and Africa. In Indonesia if you don't have an international license they make you take the written test in Indonesian ( They tell you the answers! ) and then a practical test. It takes half a day but it not really expensive, so check with the embassy before traveling.