I'm thinking of renting a car in France. Do I need an International driver's license?

[Guest]

I have something on my mind... I'm thinking of renting a car in France. Do I need an International driver's license?

[Stephanie]

I rented a car a few years ago with my regular drivers license and passport

[Tung]

I rented a car in Europe, nobody checked for it. Wasted whatever amount of money i paid to AAA for the International Driver Permit and the hassle too

[Dena]

The AAA international license is only a document that explaines to non-English speakers what the different portions of your license means. It could be helpful, but is not necessary.

[Jill]

It’s $25 at AAA Get one just in case because of you get pulled over they can fine you for not having it.

[Olga]

No, you do not need an IDP to rent a car in France.

[Vinod]

I rented in France with an American license a few years ago.

[Dan]

If you have a US license that is at least one year old, and you will definitely not be driving outside of France itself, an International Driving Permit is not necessary.

[Melissa]

Every time someone asks this people answer yes and no.

Technically, yes you should have it.

Realistically, I like many other have rented cars all over Europe as have my parents for decades without issue (Including France)

So I think it just depends on how much do you care haha

[Howard]

No, but you better buy the damage insurance waiver. I took a chance. A semi did a hit and run on us. Hertz France socked it to us for $ 2,000. At least we weren’t hurt. Your US auto insurance doesn’t usually cover other countries except maybe Canada

[Flore]

Be mindful that the driving rules over there might differ from where you are. For example if you’re from , know there is no turning right in red lights. Also when you go left at an intersection and the car in front of you is going to their left, you 2 have to pass and cross each other (as opposed as the is side to side). Just a couple of things to be mindful of.

[Louisa]

It is cheap and worth having. About $20 if you are a member of AAA. I am over the age limit to rent a car in FR (no issues with manual shift cars though I drive one in Houston) but get one anyway in case some need presents itself and carry it instead of your passport when out and about.

[Scott]

No, you do not, just watch out for pedestrians crossing the road

[Steve]

Rented with US driver's license. International can be obtained at AAA