Travel
Drivers risk breaking international law if found travelling without correct licence documents
Drivers have been urged to check the strict international rules while travelling in a vehicle abroad to avoid fines and breaking the law.
Experts have warned drivers they may need an international driving permit for some countries and to obtain these documents before setting off.
Motorists need IDPs to be able to drive abroad, with different permits available depending on which country they visit and how long they plan to stay for.
Over 140 other countries require IDPs including popular tourist destinations like Australia, Canada Mexico and Turkey.
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Drivers don’t need an IDP in the EU, Switzerland, Norway and Iceland
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Experts from Motor Match explained that while IDPs are necessary, not all countries require drivers to have one.
For example, drivers don’t need one to drive in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein if they have a UK photocard driving licence.
However, an IDP might be necessary in some EU countries and Norway if a motorist has a paper driving licence or one issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man.
There are three types of IDP which require different identification for each country. These include 1926, 1949 and 1968.
The expert stated: “The 1968 IDP is required in countries like Turkey, South Africa, and Vietnam, while the 1949 IDP is needed in places like the USA, Japan, and Australia.”
“Not having an IDP can lead to serious consequences. According to the official IDP website, driving without an IDP in countries where it’s required can result in fines, vehicle seizure, or even arrest.
“Essentially, you’d be driving without a valid licence, which is a punishable offence.”
According to Confused.com, if caught driving without a valid IDP, drivers not only be given a fine, but they could also risk having the car confiscated.
If drivers hire a car for their trip, the rental company is likely to charge for the cost of releasing the car from the police.
The IDP a driver needs depends on the countries they plan to visit.
“If travelling through multiple countries, you might need more than one type of IDP. Always check with the embassy of your destination country or your car hire company to confirm the specific requirements,” the expert added.
Rules around IDPs changed in the UK as of April 1, with drivers now only able to purchase them from PayPoint stores.
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Drivers can purchase an IDP from PayPoint stores
PA
The shift to PayPoint stores from using the Post Office marks a pivotal moment for the UK which has often relied on the postal service for DVLA documents.
Fines for not having a permit vary depending on which country drivers are travelling to, but the DVLA warned that planning ahead and checking the country’s requirements could prevent a later headache.
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