Be safe overseas this summer - NRMA issued International Driving Permits

NRMA Motoring & Services warned motorists planning on travelling overseas for end-of-year festivities to prepare for international driving and be aware of the pitfalls in not having the correct documents.

NRMA Head of Travel & Touring, Mr Michael Leary, said the majority of holiday-goers would not actively prepare for international driving when going on their next overseas vacation which could lead to unnecessary travel complications and delays.

"One of the most important documents a tourist should carry is an International Driving Permit (IDP) as it can be just as important as having your passport when travelling, hiring a vehicle or driving whilst overseas," Mr Leary said.

"In this security-sensitive climate international travellers not intending to drive are also purchasing IDPs as they are an officially sanctioned United Nations document that can be used as a vital secondary form of identification.

"Travellers need to be wary of purchasing an IDP from the internet or an unauthorised vendor as only Australian motoring clubs are authorised to issue them.

"Suspect vendors lure customers through gimmicks and offers that could leave travellers without an official document that lets them drive in their chosen holiday destination.

"If travellers are planning on hiring or driving a vehicle overseas it is important to remember that an Australian driver's licence is often not recognised.

"Travellers may be denied the opportunity of hiring or driving the vehicle they had reserved for their holiday."

International Driving Permits (IDP) can be issued over the counter at your nearest NRMA Branch and are valid for up to one year.

"To get an IDP you only need your current and valid drivers licence, a recent passport size photo and a $50 application fee, half of which is discounted for NRMA members," Mr Leary said.

"Tourists are keeping their passports safe and using their IDP document to cash traveller´s cheques or using it for ID when making credit card purchases on gifts and souvenirs."

NRMA Motoring & Services is the only organisation in NSW and ACT registered to issue IDPs, which are available in nine languages and recognised in over 150 countries.

NRMA members have access to many - in some cases all - services that overseas motoring clubs offer to their members.

Details for overseas licence requirements and overseas motoring clubs offering NRMA members full benefits can be obtained from NRMA Travel on 13 11 22.