There are some fraudulent companies that are out there attempting to scam users into buying fake IDPs. Learn how to avoid these pitfalls in this guide!
What’s the Difference between an IDP and a State-issued Driver’s License?
With an international driving license, you can drive vehicles legally within that region. Usually, the license is issued in your home-state. But, the license allows you to drive in the U.S. and Canada. Your driver’s license is a valid form of identification when presented in front of law enforcement officials.
To obtain your first state license, each state requires new applicants to pass multiple exams: a road test, an eye test, and a written exam on how to drive safely. And, states require you to give prove your identity via a birth certificate, valid driver’s license (especially if you live in another state), or a passport. This fee varies in each state.
In order to find out your state’s driver license requirements, speak to your local DMV. Search the Blue Pages in your local telephone directory or visit an American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators.
IDP Scams
Companies or individuals that aren’t authorized to provide IDPs sell fakes through emails, websites, and in person. They tend to charge high prices ranging from $50 to $400. If you do you a fake IDP, you’re paying for an invalid document. In addition, you’ll possibly face travel delays or face legal problems if the foreign country’s border patrol organization detains you for using it.
Some local operations will target people in foreign-language ads that direct unsuspecting victims to local storefronts or websites. These scam marketers falsely claim the following in their documents:
- Their documents will authorize people to drive in the U.S. Regardless if they don’t provide state-issued licenses or if the licenses are revoked or suspended.
- Are used as a Photo ID.
In fact, if you’re a legal U.S. resident, and you are found using your IDP instead of your state-issued driver’s license, you might face some severe consequences. For example, you might get charged for driving without a valid license – or driving with a revoked or suspended license. If you’re unable to give a form of valid proof (for example, a passport, valid immigration documents, or a driver’s license), the officer might arrest you for attempting to hide your identity.
Where Can I Get a Legal International Driving License?
Remember, only the American Automobile Touring Alliance or the American Automobile Association are valid institutions to receive your IDP. Their fees are usually $15 to complete the application process.
Also, your IDP is a multi-page, gray booklet with the words “United States of America” placed on top of the ID. Your IDP needs to have an AATA or AAA seal to ensure that it’s been legally issued by either organization.
You can either receive one via mail or in-person in either office (AATA or AAA). If applying via mail, it may take up to 15 days to get approved. So make sure you take this into consideration and receive your license before traveling. If you need it within a few hours, we suggest that you apply in office to receive your IDP.
Closing Thoughts
To conclude, where you obtain your IDP is just as important as applying for one. As a international driver, you need to take the necessary precautions to avoid any scams. Thus, make sure that your IDP is from a valid institution so that you can drive internationally without any issues!
