International Driving Permit

Have peace-of-mind while you are out exploring the world, even if you are not planning to drive!

International Driving Permit (IDP) is a legal document that provides validity of your local driving licence as well as easing the burden in the event of an accident.

Advantages of International Driving Permits (IDP)

IDP is a legal travel document regulated by the United Nations, and it is for your protection and safety. IDPs can be helpful if you find yourself in need of identification or assistance. Your IDP is a valid form of identification in more than 150 countries worldwide and contains your name, photo and driver information in several languages – so it is understandable to most of the local officials and authorities of the countries you visit

Please note: An International Driving Permit can only be obtained from the country where you obtained your driving licence.  AASA cannot issue an IDP to citizens of Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland who are in the possession of a valid driving licence issued in that country, but can issue an IDP to citizens of Namibia who are in the possession of a valid Namibian driving licence.

AASA can only issue IDPs to holders of a valid South African issued driving licence.

What documents do I need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP)

  • Valid South African driving licence.
  • South African identity document.
  • One (1) passport size photograph per International Driving Permit type (Photographs can be taken at selected stores. Please confirm with the store before collecting your IDP).

Submit your IDP application online

  • You will be required to upload the following with your application:
  • Valid South African driving licence.
  • South African identity document.
  • Select the AA outlet you want to collect it from

Or

Apply in store and walk out with your IDP

What do I need when collecting my International Driving Permit (IDP)

Please bring the following with you when you collect your International Driving Permit:

  • Valid South African driving licence.
  • South African identity document.
  • One (1) passport size photograph per International Driving Permit type. (Photographs taken at selected stores. Please confirm with store before collecting your IDP)

 

    Key Facts about International Driving Permits.

  • An IDP is not a stand-alone document or a substitute for a valid driving licence – you must carry your domestic driving licence with your IDP at all times.
  • IDPs do not diminish your obligations to conform to the laws and regulations of the countries you visit.
  • The 1949 model is valid for a maximum of one year. The 1968 model is valid for up to 3 years. For the 1968 sometime restrictions may apply depending on the country you are visiting.
  • The validity of the IDP can never exceed the validity of your domestic driving licence
  • An IDP may be reissued on the expiry of the old IDP (with a new photograph), but if you are a resident abroad you may need to apply for a local driving licence.
  • IDPs can only be issued to drivers holding a valid domestic driving licence (not a foreign driving licence).
  • IDPs can only be issued to people over 18 years of age.
  • IDPs cannot be issued to people who hold a learner driver permit.
  • An IDP is a helpful form of identification, even if you do not intend to drive when you travel abroad.
  • IDPs are officially sanctioned by the United Nations and accepted worldwide (in over 150 countries) as a recognisable form of identification.
  • IDPs allow you to carry your identification details in several different languages (English, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, Italian, German, Arabic and French, among others) in case you need to communicate with foreign authorities.
  • An IDP gives you an extra form of photo ID along with your personal details (this can be useful if you are ever asked to surrender your passport, which can happen under certain circumstances in some countries).
     

Please note: IDP is not refundable.

The AIT/FIA, through its affiliated clubs, duly authorized by their governments as International Driving Permit issuing entities, is a large and experienced organization in the promotion and distribution of IDPs as part of their commitment to support and defend drivers’ rights and impulse road safety worldwide.

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