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2021
17
July
Do I really need an International Driver's Permit for driving in Australia?
17
July
Question:
Humans say...
AJ
Yes - it just translates what you are actually allowed to drive. Some places require it.
Esther
AJ so what I can’t understand is that it doesn’t need a translation so why would Australia require it?
AJ
Esther the class. If you have a class 5 it might not be a class 5 there - probably called something else. It’s not just about a language translation but the type of licence you hold. For all they know you have a motorcycle licence yet drive around in a car. It just explains what you are allowed to drive.
Sophie
If you’re just visiting you don’t need the IDP if your license is Canadian. https://www.goget.com.au/.../driving-in-australia.../
GOGET.COM.AU
Driving in Australia with a foreign license | International drivers license
Esther
Sophie thank you. This clarifies it nicely.
Derick
I have had them believing you needed them for car hire. We were never asked. It looks as if they only become useful in non English speaking countries like Europe if you are involved in an accident.
Simon
If your current drivers license is in English you don’t need an International Drivers Permit in Australia.
Matti
I believe BCAA is the only place that issues them, at least that was the case when I wen to Japan and needed one. It was a very simple, quick process.
Trevor
if you have a Canadian licence, you don't need an international driver's permit in Australia if you're visiting.
Source: Me. I am an expat Aussie, and use my Canadian DL in Australia whenever I go back.
Alison
Rental companies rarely ask for it. But if you are stopped by the police or in an accident it verifies you license is legal from your home jurisdiction. How would they know your BC License is real or legal?
Chris
There are certain countries I would consider getting an IDP for. Australia is not one of them. There are not that many countries that actually require an IDP (despite what organizations and websites selling IDPs would like you to believe). There are some where it's a good idea to have one. But coming from a country where your license is in English - it's definitely not needed for Australia.
Esther
Chris thanks
Val
Hubby rented a car in Australia back in March with Canadian license.
Livia
We rented a car with just the Canadian drivers license with no problems
A.I. says...
Do You Need an International Driver's Permit for Australia?
If you're planning a trip to Australia and intend to drive while you're there, you might be wondering if you need an International Driver's Permit (IDP). The short answer is yes, an IDP is required for driving in Australia if you hold a foreign driver's license.
What is an International Driver's Permit?
An International Driver's Permit is a translation of your domestic driver's license into several languages, including English. It is a booklet that contains your name, photo, and driver information. It serves as a supplement to your valid home country driver's license and is recognized by most countries around the world.
Is BCAA the Only Place to Get an IDP?
No, BCAA (British Columbia Automobile Association) is not the only place to obtain an IDP. Several other organizations can issue IDPs, including:
- AAA (American Automobile Association) in the United States
- CAA (Canadian Automobile Association) in Canada
- Authorized driver licensing agencies or automobile clubs in your home country
It's important to note that IDPs are only issued in conjunction with a valid domestic driver's license. You cannot obtain an IDP without first having a valid driver's license from your home country.
Do You Really Need an IDP for Australia?
Yes, you do need an IDP to drive in Australia if you hold a foreign driver's license. Australian law requires all foreign visitors to carry both a valid IDP and their home country driver's license when operating a vehicle in Australia.
While it is possible to drive in Australia with just your home country driver's license, having an IDP makes it easier for Australian authorities to understand your driving credentials. It also helps avoid potential misunderstandings or fines if you are stopped by the police.
It's always a good idea to obtain an IDP before your trip to Australia, as getting one on short notice can be challenging or even impossible in some cases.
Bottom Line
If you plan to drive in Australia, it's highly recommended to obtain an International Driver's Permit before your trip. While BCAA is one option for obtaining an IDP, you can also get one from other authorized organizations like AAA or your local automobile club. Having an IDP will ensure a smooth driving experience and avoid potential complications with Australian authorities.
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Sites
Esther
We are traveling to Australia and I just learned that we'll need an International Driver's Permit. Is BCAA the only place that issues these? Do we really need one??