How to get International Driving Permit?

[BensonTT]

Hey guys, where do i go to get an International Driving Permit? Do I just go to the registry and apply? If yes, how long does it usually take?

[realazy]

https://ama.ab.ca/knowledge-base/art...tly-is-an-idp/

[BensonTT]

Originally posted by realazy
https://ama.ab.ca/knowledge-base/art...tly-is-an-idp/

But am not an AMA member

[realazy]

NOTE: Members of the public have access to this service as the AMA is the exclusive outlet for these permits in Alberta. These services are NOT restricted to AMA members. Some countries require travellers to carry special driving permits in addition to their usual driver’s licence. These International Driving Permits are available in Alberta exclusively through AMA, and throughout Canada at any CAA office.

[BensonTT]

Originally posted by realazy

OHH ok.. Thanks man.

[Redlyne_mr2]

It took about 20 minutes. Brought in my ab drivers license, they took a new pic and I was all set.

[BensonTT]

Originally posted by Redlyne_mr2
It took about 20 minutes. Brought in my ab drivers license, they took a new pic and I was all set.

That's good to know! Thanks man..

[RX-7_TWINTURBO]

Originally posted by Redlyne_mr2
It took about 20 minutes. Brought in my ab drivers license, they took a new pic and I was all set.

You can also bring in your own passport sized photos if you prefer to.

[eglove]

Yea, I got my photo done at walmart for cheap. They just verify it's you at AMA and then they make it up. Took about 15mins

[tirebob]

Originally posted by BensonTT
Hey guys, where do i go to get an International Driving Permit? Do I just go to the registry and apply? If yes, how long does it usually take?

Where are you going that you need one? I have rented cars in Europe multiple times and never have required one...

[BensonTT]

Originally posted by tirebob
Where are you going that you need one? I have rented cars in Europe multiple times and never have required one...

Asia..

[jwslam]

Originally posted by BensonTT
Asia..

Depends where. There's places that will rent you a car without even checking if you have a license at all!

[eglove]

I just did it for peace of mind $20 instead of going to jail in the off chance I did get pulled over. Plus it's valid for what 5 years?

[BensonTT]

Originally posted by eglove
I just did it for peace of mind $20 instead of going to jail in the off chance I did get pulled over. Plus it's valid for what 5 years?

X2 exactly, not worth taking a chance

[GTi-RS]

Expires in 1 year.

[Kobe]

Originally posted by tirebob
Where are you going that you need one? I have rented cars in Europe multiple times and never have required one...

Most rental companies don't ever ask in Europe, the police wont even know if you get pulled over but if you get in a car accident without the international drivers permit you will be pretty fucked. They might not cover the accident..


I know since i hit an animal in Europe and everything was normal, 1 month later the insurance company was asking for my international license or they wouldn't pay out..


Got a few tickets around Europe not once has a police officer asked me for it or even knew what the hell it was when i showed them..

Originally posted by GTi-RS
Expires in 1 year.

This, you can also not renew it without going back to AMA and you cant have it active from a certain date, its always going to be active for 1 year from the date you buy it

[BensonTT]

^^ good info.. Thanks Kobe

[milesmcewing]

The IDP is just a translation of your original license into several other languages - it is used by officials in other countries to be able to understand the particulars of your home country license.

It is not a replacement for your current license, most of the time if you are in a bind you will need to show both unless you are dealing with an English speaking official.

The other thing it is good for is if you move/relocate/require a local license it 'usually' lets you skip the testing process.

Cheers