I've read the US Dept of State website but I can't find information on whether this necessary. If an international license is necessary, can we get one as quick as 3 weeks?

Please help! Thanks!

Hi STW, I don't know about Portugal. I do know that Italy for sure and I think Austria requires what is called an International Drivers Permit. That translates your US drivers license info into several different languages.

I guess you should Google for the Portugal Government website.

To get an IDP you can go to your local AAA office (or to their website). You do not have to be a member of AAA to obtain an IDP. The cost is $10.00 plus you need two passport type photos which AAA which take for an additonal $10.00. The IDP is valid for one year.
You can obtain the IDP right away.

You take the IDP AND your US drivers license to Portugal with you because again the IDP merely translates what is on your US state drivers license. Have a wonderful time in Portugal!!

Hi LoveItaly. Thanks for the information. Google is a wonderful thing, but believe it or not, I'm having a difficult time finding an "official" government site for Portugal. Everything turns out to be more or less a tourism site -- giving a broad range of info, all except whether an IDP is necessary!

My guidebook is also no help -- only speaks about EU drivers.

I printed out the form from AAA (we are members), but it doesn't say how quick the process is. Unless I get some definitive answer sometime tomorrow, we'll just get the photos done and send it in, hoping it will be here in time.

Thanks for your research -- you are a sweetie!

is there an AAA office in your town? They can issue an IDP while you wait . . . . .

Hi seetheword, I went onto Google and typed in their search box "Driving in Portugal". One of the websites was guidelines for driving in Portugal and one of the statements was that an International Drivers Permit was required. Lots of other information was shown to. So you might want to do this. STW, I have sometimes found with Google just typing in the simpliest question brings up the best information. Have a beautiful time in Portugal. I have never visted there but lots of my friends in Italy have and they rave about Portugal! And of course P_M had a beautiful visit. Hugs to you!!!

janisj, that's a brilliant idea! There is only one AAA office in the county. I'll call tomorrow to be sure the office exists.

LoveItaly, thank you for the kind wishes for our trip. Yes, I did see the statement you are referring to. Glad someone has good eyesight tonight (not me, lol).

ttt

TRying to get a definitive answer. Thanks.

most guidebooks will tell you right up front what is required to rent a car. You might even be able to find that info here on fodor's or other commercial travel websites.

Took me less than 50 seconds looking on Fodor's Portugal section:

Requirements

Most agencies won't rent to you if you're under the age of 21 or over 69, unless you make special arrangements. In Portugal your own driver's license is acceptable.

Although your driver's license from home is recognized in Portugal, an international driving permit (IDP) is a good idea. You can acquire one through the American and Canadian automobile associations and, in the United Kingdom, from the Automobile Association and Royal Automobile Club. These international permits, valid only in conjunction with your regular driver's license, are universally recognized; having one may save you a problem with local authorities.

The US Separtment of State says US citizens may drive in Portugal for up to six months with a valid US drivers license.

That said, we also take an International license with us anyway because they are easy to obtain, inexpensive, and it covers all bases.

DUH! That should be Department.

Nessundomma, well it may have taken you only 50 seconds to find it on Fodors online, but I spent $22 on a Fodors guides book and it doesn't give that information -- either under "driving" or "car rentals".

Thanks for the help.

That is what I love about this place.

It's NOT necessary. Your valid US license is fine.

However I STRONGLY suggest making very sure that your credit card will cover CDW in Portugal and what the coverage is; if not, you should definitely buy full insurance from the rental agency.

Just MO (but I believe feelings shared by many) that driving in Portugal is about as hairy as it gets in western Europe, or eastern for that matter. The roads are fine; it's the other drivers... 'nuff said.

Gardyloo, we are declining the CDW because our credit card covers the car. We are just waiting to hear from our insurance provider regarding our umbrella liability -- we "should" be covered.

Re: the IDP, the photos have been taken and my DH is getting the permit at this time. A precaution.

As for the drivers in Portugal -- I try not to think about it too much, but definitely know we need to drive defensively!

If you look at their embassy website, they provide a link to their "official tourism" website. This was the info for driving.

Driving


Vehicles drive on the right in Portugal. Unless otherwise indicated, vehicles coming from the right have priority in squares and at intersections. At junctions with roundabouts, vehicles already on the roundabout have right of way.
Road signs comply with international rules.

Compulsory papers:
- Personal ID
- Driving licence
- Motor insurance certificate
- Vehicle registration or equivalent
- Vehicle logbook (livrete)or equivalent

On the spot fines are issued.

Speed limits for cars without trailers and motorcycles:
50 kph - in built-up areas
90 kph - on normal roads
100 kph - on roads restricted to motor vehicles
120 kph - on motorways

It is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol level of 0.5 grams per litre or more.

All occupants must wear seat belts.

The Portuguese Highway Code forbids the use of mobile phones while driving, unless you’re using hands-free equipment or an earphone