wlbox

Should we have an International Drivers License when we rent our car in Switzerland?

Venezia123

Yes i would you never know when you will get stoped by the locals.It's worth peace of mind if that happens .It helps them read your drivers licenes.They are ony $25.00 at tiple A.

Christina

There isn't any such thing. There are some things called an international "permit" by nobody issues an international drivers license. The "permit" is just a translation of your native one. So it depends on the country as to whether they recognize your license, no entity issues an international one.

spaarne

There is no such thing as an "International Drivers License" even though rip off internet outfits are selling them. They are worthless.

You need your home state drivers license. I believe that an "International Driving Permit" obtainable from AAA is also a good idea, though many on Fodor's think it is a waste of money. I bought mine at AAA in April for $15, IIRC.

StCirq

The International Driver's PERMIT is not a legal requirement in Switzerland (though it is in some other countries), but you might want to get one anyway.

Venezia123

Sorry international permit not license.

J62

IMO it's an obsolete legacy from days gone by. I'm all in favor of getting one when it's required - such as in Italy, but in reality it's a useless booklet not worth the paper it's printed on.

Anybody with 1/2 a brain can figure out the info on a standard US drivers license. If you're just going to Switzerland (or France/Germany) then save your $15 or $25, whatever it costs.

helen_belsize

You would be well advised to check the Swiss rules for driving. For example if you wear glasses/spectacles to drive you must carry a spare pair. Some requirements may be handled by the rental agency and they may give you advice on the rules but forwarned is forearmed.

pattytravel

By the way, I'm going to Italy in Oct. and was checking on this topic... can someone confirm that indeed you need a permit in Italy, please? thank you.
Planning to go to AAA soon!

J62

It is a legal requirement to have one in Italy.

Chances are 99.44% that nobody will ask, incl rental car co, but it is a requirement by law.

Paul1950

There is no standard US driving license--every state has its own design.

Switzerland does not require an International Driving Permit. Italy and Austria do require an IDP, so, if you think you might cross the border, it would be worthwhile to get one at AAA.

Like auto or home insurance, it's worthless until you need it.

caroltis

We have driven in France, Spain, Italy several times and never have had the IDP. Never was asked for it either. If you were to have an accident - it might be that extra measure of documentation that makes the process easier. I've never "heard" of a traveler having problems because they did not have this permit.

Paul1950

I don't think it matters if some particular poster has never heard of anyone having a problem because they didn't have an IDP. The fact is that in some countries it is the law that you have one in your possession.

Odds are you will not be in an accident or be stopped for a moving violation, so you won't need to pull it out of your wallet. And if you are stopped, maybe the particular cop you are dealing with won't care if you have it.

But maybe you will be stopped or have an accident. And maybe, for whatever reason, the cop you're dealing with will want to see your IDP. There are hefty fines for not having it if you are asked for it.

For $15 plus a passport photo, an IDP is quite inexpensive insurance.

ira

Ditto Paul

bratsandbeer

http://www.aaa-calif.com/travel/idp.aspx Lots of info about this subject at this website including what different countries honor.