Driving Abroad
Obtain an International Drivers Permit
(IDP). This can be purchased through your
AAA club (for U.S. resident only). Have your passport photos and a completed application.
There will be a fee involved. Carry both your IDP and your country e driver's license with
you at all times. Some things to keep in mind:
- Some
countries have a minimum and maximum driving age. Check the laws before you drive in any
country.
- Always "buckle up". Some countries have penalties for people who
violate this law.
- If
you rent a car, always purchase the liability insurance. If you do not, this could lead to
financial disaster.
- As
many countries have different driving rules, obtain a copy of them before you begin
driving in that country.
- If
the drivers in the country you are visiting drive on the opposite side of the road than in
the U.S., practice driving in a less populated area before attempting to drive during the
heavy traffic part of the day.
- Be
aware of the countryside you will be driving in. Many countries require you to honk your
horn before going around a sharp corner or to flash your lights before passing.
- Find
out before you start your journey who has the right of way in a traffic circle.
- Always know the route you will be traveling. Have a copy of a good road map, and
chart your course before beginning.
- Do
not pick up hitchhikers or strangers.
- When
entering your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.
Excerpted from: U. S. Department of State, Overseas Security Advisory
Council. U. S. State Department Publication 10214. November, 1994. pg. 27. Note: As of
July, 1997 this was the latest non-Internet-published U.S. State Department document
pertaining to this topic.
Your Driver's License
and Auto Insurance
If
you intend to drive overseas, check with the embassy or consulate of the countries you
will visit to learn their driver's license, road permit, and auto insurance requirements.
If possible, obtain road maps before you go.
Many countries do not recognize a U.S. or other foreign countries driver's
license. Most, however, accept an international driver's permit. Before departure, obtain
your international driver's license. Certain countries require road permits instead of
tolls to use their divided highways and will fine drivers without a permit.
Car
rental agencies overseas usually provide auto insurance, but in some countries, the
required coverage is minimal. A good rule of thumb when renting a car overseas is to
purchase insurance coverage that is at least equivalent to that which you carry at home.
In
general, your country auto insurance does not cover you abroad. However, your policy may
apply when you drive to countries that neighbor the United States. Check with your insurer
to see if your policy covers you in Canada, Mexico, or in countries south of Mexico. Even
if your policy is valid in one of these countries, it may not meet its minimum
requirements. For instance, in most of Canada, you must carry at least $200,000 in
liability insurance, and Mexico requires that if vehicles do not carry theft, third party
liability, and comprehensive insurance, the owner must post a bond that could be as high
as 50% of the value of the vehicle. If you are under-insured for a country, auto insurance
can usually be purchased on either side of the border.
Excerpted from: U. S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs. U.
S. State Department Publication 9926. February, 1992. pg. 20. Note: As of July, 1997 this
was the latest non-Internet-published U.S. State Department document pertaining to this
topic.
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