If renting a car in Italy, does one need to have a special permit from US or does state license suffice?

One does not NEED one, but for $10 or even less at AAA, I think it is worth the peace of mind in case you are stopped by police who don't speak English -- and most don't!

I just got back and took the precaution of getting an int'l license before leaving. No one ever asked to see it, ever, but I did have to show my NY State Driver's License many times. But then again, I never got stopped by the police either...

I think a definate yes to your question. Two weeks ago we were driving into Orvieto and for no apparent reason we were stopped. one guy was standing at ready with his uzi,and the other asked for our papers. I had read on this forum that it is the law in Italy to have an international liscense so we did! I am very glad . He looked over the papers,went to his car an radioed or called somewhere,then came back,gave the documents back and waved us on. I really think if we had not had the intl. liscense we would have been fined or worse.Never knew why we were stopped, maybe the guy with the uzi was bored!!!

Yes, it is required. www.italiantourism.com/transp.html is the "Italian Gov't Tourist Board" (North American) website.<BR>Regards, Walter

As you can see from the following your state license is good in Italy. What they want is a copy of in Italian.<BR>Driving License Regulations<BR>Italy recognises driving licenses and other traffic documents that are valid in other countries. U.S. and Canadian driving licenses are valid in Italy but the license must be accompanied by a translation. For motorists not in possession of an International Driving license, the ACI (Automobile Club Italiano) will issue a declaration upon presentation of a U.S. or a Canadian license. The declaration is obtainable at any ACI frontier or Provincial office for a small fee. Seat belts are compulsory in Italy.<BR>

No, you do not need any additional permits to drive in Italia. A U.S. driver's permit is sufficient. It is useful, however, to rent a vehicle with a platinum Visa or Mastercard that has coverage for potential damage incurred by an accident, theft, or otherwise while overseas. There is enough insurance on those cards that you don't need to buy additional coverage from the rental company - no matter how hard they try to sell it to you!