International Drivers Licence (For Australians) Gadsventure

You might want to rent a car while traveling overseas.

If so you may need an International Driver’s Licence to enable you to drive around a country and have total freedom.

Self-driving around the countryside can become some your fondest memories when traveling abroad, and there is nothing worse than not being allowed to create your own custom tours of an amazing destination.

We fully recommend obtaining an International Drivers Permit so that you have complete control over your experiences, and don’t miss out on visiting secret places hidden from the masses. In some countries, you will not be able to officially rent a vehicle without one.

Get an International Drivers Licence for your next trip!

Below is how to obtain your very own International Driver’s Permit from Australia.

Destinations that require the Drivers Permit

You can drive in most countries around the world, but depending on their rules and regulations regarding driving licenses you may need a certain permit to be allowed to operate a vehicle of any kind. Be aware that some countries drive on the left, using right-hand drive cars such as USA, while others drive on the right for example Australia.

In our experience it is worth just getting this permit before you leave home. You never know what you might want to do on your holiday, and you cannot obtain one once you are overseas.

Here is a list of countries you will be required to carry an International Drivers Permit along with your regular licence from home:

Japan
Australia
Thailand
Hong Kong
Spain
France
Fiji
Switzerland
Italy
Indonesia
Sri Lanka
Canada
United States of America (just to name a few!)

If you are an applicant you should contact the embassy or consulate of the intended country you are visiting to confirm the status of the IDP.

AAA have an international directory that can provide guidance for countries you can visit.

Obtaining Vehicles Through Shonky Hire Operators

Be aware of backyard hire companies! Even though you may be able to hire a car without proof of an International Driver’s Permit, this is not the risk.

These companies might have great deals and seem authentic, but you never know if they are operating to the countries laws and regulations for their business.

And you will not be sure if you are covered when something goes wrong, like accidents and theft of property.

We once had an incident at a service station in Vietnam where one of the girls accelerated at the wrong time and took out the pumps and us. She damaged her bike a bit and when we returned it the owners wanted her to pay for the whole bike instead of just for the damage.

It was a dramatic event and very stressful. If we had just gone through a reputable company we would have known from day one where we stood when it came to accidents.

You have been warned! Make sure the hire company checks out before handing over any money.

An Epic Experience with a Drivers Permit!

That feeling of freedom, no one telling you where to go or what to do.

Do I turn left or right? Who cares! It is your adventure and the unforgettable experiences you get from having your own wheels is priceless.

Go check out hidden beaches, hidden waterfalls, and breathtaking scenery all by yourself at anytime you like.

“Oh, what a feeling!” You won’t be disappointed but you will be the only one who has done what you have done because you were smart enough to get yourself an International Driver’s Permit.

Here is How to get Your International Drivers Permit

Australia is divided into 6 States and 2 territories, each has their own version of RACQ. Click on the links below for your state:

Depending on which state or territory you may be in you may have to visit one of these branches in person or you can often apply online. We preferred to visit in person because we got our permits instantly, instead of having to wait for 5 days.

Step 1. – Necessary items you must have to get the licence

You will need 1 passport photo (obtain these from a photo booth or Aus Post)

Step 2. – Driver’s License

You will need a valid driver’s license with at least 12 months until expiry left on it.

Step 3. – Money (Cost of Driving Permit)

Money to pay for the International Driver’s Permit is a must, you can pay via cash or credit/debit card at the center.
The Permit costs $35 – $39 Australian Dollars and is valid for 12 months from issue.

What Does a International Drivers Permit Look Like?

Here it is the Permit to drive the world legally!!

The finished International Driver’s Permit in a cardboard booklet

Vehicles for which the Permit is Valid

Motorcycles, with or without a side car, invalid carriages and three-wheeled motor vehicles with an unladen weight not exceeding 400kg.

Motor Vehicles used for transport of passengers, in addition to the drivers seat, at most eight seats, or those used for the transportation of goods and having a permissible maximum weight not exceeding 3,500 kg.
International Driver’s Permit Rules

As long as you stay within these guidelines you won’t have any problems with the local authorities.

Is it Worth Getting an International Driver’s Permit?

Yes it is! For the small amount of money that it costs, you might as well have one even if you never use it.

We have done some amazing trips around countries like Japan that wouldn’t have been possible without our little permit.

So get your butt down to your local branch and grab you and maybe your partner and International Driving Permit for your next holiday.

Comment Below Your Most Amazing International road trips!

Find out what else you need to do BEFORE you travel:

Read our reviews of the best travel towels – Tesalate and Evolve

Do you need travel vaccinations?

The ultimate packing checklist for a family

Or check out our blogger series with the hottest tips on choosing your next destination, saving money on transportation, and finding the best family friendly accommodation.