I will be renting a car and driving in France in two weeks. Is it really necessary to get an international driver's permit?

It's not a legal requirement in France.

In some countries like Greece and Italy it is required though.

I always take one anyway. At many places where you rent or are lent an audioguide they require you leave a piece of ID... rather than leave my passport or real license I leave the IDP instead. That's worth the 20 bucks it cost to me.

Rob

No, not in France.

How do you get an IDP?

Go to a AAA office... you can bring 2 passport-size photos or AAA will take the photos for you. You don't need to be a AAA member... cost is $15 without photos.

An IDP is free at AAA if you are a PLUS Member.