Are International Driver s Licenses Legit? - AARP Bulletin Scams & Fraud

International Driver s Licenses

How to get a legitimate IDL

Q. I received an e-mail to apply for an international driver’s license. Is it legitimate? A. E-mail offers usually pitch unauthorized, phony substitutions of your U.S. license that can cost $100 or more. But a bona fide international driving permit (IDP) is honored in more than 150 foreign countries and is required in about 40 countries (it’s necessary if you travel more than 300 miles into Mexico or 50 miles into Canada). You still need to have your U.S. license with you. The American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends getting an international permit for a visit to any non-English-speaking country, even if you’re not driving, because it essentially translates your U.S. license into 10 foreign languages and will be readily recognized by most foreign officials. The permit costs $15 and is valid for one year. It’s available through or the If you retire or relocate to a foreign country, you need to get a new permanent driver’s license, issued in the country of residence. The U.S. State Department says people can report the peddling of bogus or unauthorized IDPs sold via e-mails or websites to their , the , the or their . Sid Kirchheimer is the author of “Scam-Proof Your Life” (AARP Books/Sterling). Cancel You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Your email address is now confirmed. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. You can also by updating your account at anytime. You will be asked to register or log in. Cancel Offer Details Disclosures

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