In many countries, renting a car is a popular way to explore the region on your own. However, for travelers from different countries, the national driving license is not always sufficient to rent a vehicle and drive abroad.

In some states, an international driver's license is also required, which serves as an official translation of the national driver's license. Here we take a look at the importance of the international driver's license and how to get one in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

What is the international driver's license?

The international driver's license, also known as the international certificate of good conduct or international vehicle registration document, is not a driver's license in its own right. Instead, it acts as a translation and supplement to the national driver's license to facilitate communication with authorities in other countries. The international driver's license contains all the relevant information of the national driver's license and is written in many languages, making it easier for law enforcement and car rental companies abroad to check the information.

In which states do you need an international driver's license to rent a car?

International driving license requirements vary by country. Some countries only recognize the national driver's license, while others require both the national and international driver's license. In countries with foreign characters, the international driver's license can be particularly helpful, as the translation facilitates communication.

To make sure whether a particular country requires the international driver's license, it is advisable to consult the website of the foreign office or embassy of the destination country before travelling. The current entry and traffic regulations are listed there.

How to get the international driving license in Germany, Austria and Switzerland?

Germany:

In Germany, the international driving license is issued by the local road traffic authorities. To apply for it, the following documents must be submitted:

• Valid national driving license
• A biometric passport photo
• ID card or passport
• Application form (available from the Road Traffic Office or online)

Austria:

In Austria, the international driving license is issued by the automobile clubs ARBÖ and ÖAMTC, among others. The VCÖ is also entitled to issue. The district authorities, magistrates and state police headquarters do not issue international driver's licenses. Normally, the document is issued on the spot and can be taken away immediately.

• Valid national driving license
• A biometric passport photo
• Photo ID (passport or ID card)
• Application form (available on site from the Automobile Club or online)

Switzerland:

In Switzerland, the international driving license can be applied for at the cantonal road traffic authorities. Required documents are:

• Valid national driving license
• A biometric passport photo
• Proof of identity (passport or ID card)
• Application form (available from the Road Traffic Office or online)

Issuing fee and period of validity:

The costs for the international driving license vary depending on the country and also depend on the respective fee structures of the national road traffic authorities. As a rule, the exhibition fees are between 15 and 30 euros. In Austria, members of automobile clubs receive discounts if they visit one of their club's bases to apply and show their membership card.

The international driver's license is usually valid for three years from the date of issue. The documents issued in Austria are only valid for one year and cannot be extended. If necessary, you have to renew your international driving license once a year.

Why does the international driver's license always have to be presented with the national driver's license?

The international driver's license is not an independent driver's license, but merely supplements the national driver's license. For this reason, it must always be presented together with the national driver's license. The national driver's license contains all the important information such as the vehicle categories that the holder is allowed to drive and any restrictions. The international driver's license translates this information into different languages ​​to facilitate communication abroad. Car rental companies and authorities can easily check the data and confirm the traveler's driving license.

In summary, the international driving license enables a smooth driving experience in many countries and is an essential travel companion for anyone who wants to rent a car abroad and explore the beauties of the world on four wheels. It is advisable to find out about the specific requirements of each country before traveling to avoid unnecessary complications.