When you compare it to the other countries, the UK is slightly different because it doesn't allow online applications for its residents. The way you do it is to contact your local Post Office and apply for an IDP, which will cost you £5.5. You will also need to provide your license and a copy of your passport.
The best way to inform yourself where you need a specific IDP is through the government official website. For example, Spain and France require separate international driving permits. Remember that it isn't a document you can carry alone, meaning that you will still need to provide your driving license when it is required.
Can You Bring Only a Driving License to the EU?
The answer to things questions depends on how you travel, meaning that you will need additional documents when using your vehicle. For example, your passport needs to be valid for the next six months to enter Europe. You will also need your VC5 or logbook, a UK sticker (optional), and a green card.
Even when the UK left the EU, things were the same when driving abroad. The same laws apply to the residents traveling to the EU and European Economic Area, which means you'll only need your license. In most cases, you won't need to have an IDP, but there are some exceptions you need to know about.
Is IDP Necessary in the EU?
The majority of the countries from other continents will require an IDP from UK residents. When it comes to the UK, most Balkan countries will also request one, but it will differ depending on the state. Each has its terms, so always do your research before traveling.
There are three groups of IDPs representing countries requiring the same documents. The only thing you need to
be careful about is getting the wrong one. It's pretty easy to manage; you'll only need to check if the country you are applying for is a part of the 1949 Convention IDP, 1968 or 1926.
How Long It Takes and How To Get One?
Everything depends on what type of vehicle you are driving, but since 2019, you would need to visit one of the post offices to apply for an international driving license. There are a few things you need to have to apply for one, including a photo like in the passport, and you need to be over 18 years old, a passport if your license is an older version, and a small fee.
If you visit one of these offices, you will get one on the same day, so it's pretty easy to get. But, with the COVID situation, this may take a couple of days. So, one of the best ways to do it is to order it online, which can be done three months in advance.
How Long Does It Last?
International driving permits are easy to acquire but last for an extended period. They're usually valid for three years, depending on your type. Once the 3-year mark ends, you can reapply right away.
One of the things you also need to take care of is the insurance you should do after getting your IDP. You would want to get it after because you might have some unexpected difficulties, and you don't want to end up paying for insurance in advance for no reason. So, make sure you get your license first and then talk to your insurer about your option for the countries you are visiting.
You will need to pay 0 if you can use your insurance or a small amount when adding additional coverage. You should also get a green card once insured. Request one if it is not provided and check the terms for your coverage. In most cases, tourists will get insurance based on the number of days abroad.
Recognize That Laws Vary Overseas
Once you realize some of the differences you can come upon, you will know how to prepare in advance when going on a road trip abroad. For example, in Spain, you are not required to have reflective jackets, but you can get fined if you are not wearing one while walking on the side of the road.
On the other hand, in France, it is required to have reflective jackets inside the car for every person in the vehicle. This is because their roads are privately managed, meaning that you will have emergency telephones for each section on the roadside.
The only difference between Italy and Germany when it comes to the required stuff is that you will need an aid kid in Germany besides having reflective jackets and a warning triangle. On the other hand, if you are driving your vehicle in Belgium, you won't need a first aid kit and fire extinguisher, but you will need to have them if you are driving their car.
IDPs in Different Countries
IDPs are issued in the same country as your driving license, so you won't get one once you arrive at the location. Depending on where your driver's license is registered, you might wait a bit longer to get the permit.
Most people that have business meetings don't have enough time to get one on time so if you plan sometime in the year to travel, get one on time because it lasts up to 3 years. This way, you won't have to worry about making it on time, and it won't cost a lot, so you can reapply when it expires.
