The International Driving Permit (IDP) is often referred to as an international driving license. The identification document is recommended for international travelers who will be driving a vehicle in a country other than the one in which they normally reside.

The IDP was established at an international convention in 1926. It has been updated and modified a number of times, particularly in 1949, 1968, and in 2011. The original convention was recognized by approximately 100 countries. By 2015, more than 170 countries recognized the IDP. Countries do not necessarily have to agree with all of the conventions or their updates in order to recognize the IDP. Some countries that have not signed the convention still generally recognize the IDP.

The International Driving Permit is not a driver’s ...