Driving a car is a routine we’re all accustomed to, but doing so thousands of miles from home can be overwhelming. From insurance and rental contracts to road signs and roundabouts, foreign roads can be intimidating.
Follow these tips to ensure a safe, stress-free journey on your next jet-setting adventure.
Make Sure You Can Drive Abroad
Some countries may require more than a U.S. driver’s license. For a small fee, you can get an International Driving Permit (IDP) from AAA and the National Auto Club. This translates your driver’s license into different languages and is worth keeping with you.
You have to be 18 to obtain an IDP, but you should also check the driving age in the country you’re visiting. Rental car companies may also have a minimum or maximum age for renting a car.
Insurance Outside The U.S.
So, you’re allowed to drive at your destination, and now you need to protect yourself. Know your insurance options before you go. Whether you’re staying in North America or renting a car internationally, here are a few options:
- Heading to Canada? Good news — your GEICO auto insurance policy will cover you! Learn more about insurance in Canada here.
- If you’re headed in the opposite direction, we can assist you in gettingMexico tourist auto insurance.
- Unless your car is a hovercraft, you’ll be renting a car when you cross the pond. You’ll need a credit card for the rental, so check with your credit card company to see if they offer coverage. If they do, make sure you have a good understanding of what’s covered.
- The rental car company will also offer extra protection. Try to pick a company you’re familiar with and research insurance options beforehand.
- You might be traveling between countries, especially in Europe. No matter how you choose to obtain insurance, be sure that the coverage extends across borders.
Getting Behind The Wheel
With all of the paperwork out of the way, it’s time to get behind the wheel! But be prepared for a few roadblocks before you even start the car.
- Rental car companies may only offer manual transmissions, or charge an additional fee for an automatic. Familiarize yourself with the vehicle before driving. A new country isn’t the place to learn how to drive a stick.
- Depending on the country, the steering wheel might be on the “wrong” side, which means you’ll also be driving on the left. This can be easy to forget, so stay alert, especially when entering or exiting roads and intersections.
- Rent a GPS from the rental car company, or bring one with you with international maps loaded. You’ll want to avoid using your smartphone’s GPS, as data roaming charges can be expensive in another country. Of course, a traditional map is a good idea to have as well.
- Avoid driving in city centers. Public transportation is excellent, especially in most European countries. It’s not worth navigating heavily congested, narrow streets in a car.
Of course, it’s still just a car, so all of the safety precautions you take at home still apply. Wear a seatbelt, avoid distracted driving, and don’t drink and drive.
Will you be living abroad for a prolonged period? Learn about how overseas insurance can help you with the transition and protect your vehicles and personal property.
Read more: Does my car insurance cover me in Canada and Mexico?
FAQs
If you're American or Canadian, your passport and driver's license are all you need in most European countries. However, some countries also require an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP is an official translation of your US license (making it easier for a local police officer to write out a ticket).
What countries accept a US driver's license? ›
When visiting another country as a U.S. citizen:
- Your state driver's license is valid while driving in Canada and Mexico.
- In other countries, you may need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) for foreign drivers.
If you're American or Canadian, your passport and driver's license are all you need in most European countries. However, some countries also require an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP is an official translation of your US license (making it easier for a local police officer to write out a ticket).
Does my car insurance cover rental cars in foreign countries? ›
Most U.S. auto insurers won't cover you while driving abroad, except for driving in Canada and driving in Mexico. Unless you have a credit card offering rental car insurance, you'll probably need to purchase your insurance from the rental company. Learn more about international car insurance and rental car insurance.
How to drive in a foreign country? ›
Not all countries accept a U.S. driver's license, but most accept an International Driving Permit (IDP). You can get an IDP from the AAA (American Automobile Association) before you leave. IDPs have limited validity and may need you to also have your U.S. license with you.
How does a US citizen get an international driver's license? ›
You will need to provide:
- Download and fill out an application (new tab), and bring it to your nearest AAA Travel office** (new tab).
- Two original passport pictures (also available at AAA Travel offices**).
- A valid U.S. driver's license.
- Pay $20 USD permit fee and you're ready to go!***
During the first year of your stay in the UK you can drive with a valid driving licence from your own country or an International Driving Permit but after one year you must take out a Provisional UK Licence and put 'L' plates on your car. You must then arrange to sit a full UK Driving Test.
Is it difficult for an American to drive in Europe? ›
The mechanics of driving in Europe aren't all that different from home, but the first day or two can be an adjustment. Drive defensively, observe, fit in, avoid big-city streets when you can, know how to operate your GPS (and have a good printed map along), and wear your seat belt.
Can Americans drive in Italy? ›
Yes, you can drive in Italy with a US license for up to 12 months. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, but optional. It might serve you well in the future should you decide to drive in Italy again, or perhaps visit another country. Definitely look into it if this is within your future vacation plans!
Can you rent a car in Europe if you are over 75? ›
Car Rental Abroad over 75 Years of Age
In most of Europe, there is no car rental age limit for drivers over the age of 65. Germany, France, Spain and the United Kingdom all have all car rental over 80 years old. In parts of Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia there are restrictions or surcharges for senior drivers.
No, your U.S. car insurance doesn't protect you while driving in Europe. Your rental car fee should include any liability insurance required by the country you're visiting. But you'll need to get extra coverage to avoid paying for damage to your rental car that you cause.
Does my auto insurance cover out of country? ›
Your U.S. policy likely only covers you in the U.S. and Canada, so you'll need a separate policy when driving in all other countries. Whether you plan to drive across a border or rent or purchase a car overseas, you have plenty of options for getting the international auto insurance coverage each country requires.
Should I decline CDW? ›
If you have no insurance coverage and the rental car is wrecked or stolen, you'll need to pay out of your own pocket to cover the loss. This will be an expensive proposition, so consider your options carefully before declining CDW coverage when you have no other applicable coverage.
What is the easiest country to drive in? ›
The Easiest Countries to Learn to Drive
- 1: Mexico – Learn to Drive Score, 9.48/10. ...
- 2: Qatar – Learn to Drive Score, 7.39/10. ...
- 3: Latvia – Learn to Drive Score, 7.03/10. ...
- 4: United States – Learn to Drive Score, 6.95/10. ...
- 5: Canada – Learn to Drive Score, 6.93/10. ...
- 1: Croatia – Learn to Drive Score, 1.96/10.
Yes, and additionally to your US driver's license, you must have its translation in French (or an International Driving Permit).
Can I drive in Spain with a US license? ›
Can I drive with my U.S. driver's license in Spain? U.S. citizens who plan to drive in Spain must obtain an international driving permit (IDP) prior to their arrival. An international driving permit translates your state-issued driver's license into ten languages so that officials in foreign countries can interpret it.
Can you use a US ID in other countries? ›
If you are traveling internationally you will still need your passport. If you are traveling domestically, you will only need one valid form of identification – either your REAL ID or another acceptable alternative such as a passport, not both.
What countries do not accept IDP? ›
Examples of countries/jurisdictions that have not ratified the Convention include Australia, Canada, China, Cyprus, Iceland, Ireland, Malaysia, Malta, New Zealand, and the United States.
With all of the paperwork out of the way, it’s time to get behind the wheel! But be prepared for a few roadblocks before you even start the car.