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Australian driver's licences are accepted in most countries, but some may also require an International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP is a United Nations-sanctioned translation of an Australian licence into nine different languages. Local authorities and car companies in other countries may require an IDP to drive or rent a vehicle. Additionally, the conditions for driving with a foreign licence vary depending on the destination country and whether an individual is a resident or a visitor.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Countries where you can drive with an Australian driver's license | Most countries |
| Countries where you need an International Driving Permit in addition to an Australian driver's license | Canada, Indonesia (Bali), and possibly others |
| Countries where you can get an equivalent license without additional testing | Countries with Recognition Status: United States of America (for licenses first issued on or after April 1, 1991, or January 2, 2004) |
| Requirements for getting an Australian license | Must have an overseas license with Recognition Status; must not have missed the deadline for exchanging your license (if 25 years old or older) |
| Other requirements for driving in Australia | If the license is not in English, an official English translation is required; if driving on a learner's license, a fully licensed Australian driver must be in the passenger seat |
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What You'll Learn
- Countries that accept Australian licences without an International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Countries that require an IDP as well as an Australian licence
- Requirements for getting an Australian licence if you hold a foreign one
- How to get an IDP in Australia?
- Driving laws and customs in countries that accept Australian licences
Countries that accept Australian licences without an International Driving Permit (IDP)
An Australian driver's licence is accepted in most countries. However, some countries also require an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your Australian driver's licence. Here is a list of countries that accept Australian licences without an International Driving Permit (IDP):
New Zealand
New Zealand recognizes Australian driver's licences. Austroads has introduced revised arrangements for the transition of Australian licences to New Zealand licences, streamlining the conversion process and eliminating the need for additional testing in some cases.
United States of America
The United States of America recognizes Australian driver's licences. For licences first issued on or after April 1, 1991, and after January 2, 2004, you can obtain a full ACT licence without any extra training or tests.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
If you have a full driver's licence from a recognized country and are only visiting the ACT, you can drive without obtaining an ACT driver's licence. However, residents of the ACT with an overseas licence may need to comply with additional requirements.
It is important to note that the laws and requirements regarding driver's licences may vary between states and territories, and it is always advisable to check with the relevant authorities before travelling. Additionally, some car rental companies may require an International Driving Permit, so it is important to research the specific requirements of your destination.
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Countries that require an IDP as well as an Australian licence
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recognised in over 150 countries and is valid for 12 months. It is often required for driving legally or renting a car in other countries as a visitor. Many countries require you to have an IDP in addition to your Australian-issued driver's licence photocard. Therefore, it is always advised to carry both your IDP and Australian driver's licence when driving overseas.
The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) is the only authorised distributor for IDPs in Australia. State and territory motoring clubs process them on behalf of the AAA. In NSW, the motoring club is the NRMA. You can check the countries where you need an IDP on the AAA website.
IDPs are United Nations-sanctioned documents that provide translations of your licence in multiple languages. This enables local authorities and rental companies to easily interpret your driving credentials.
To apply for an IDP, you must hold a provisional (P1 or P2) or full (unrestricted) Australian driver's licence. Interim licences are not accepted. Additionally, learner drivers are not eligible for an IDP. You will need to provide your current driver's licence (card or digital licence is accepted), a passport-sized photo taken within the last six months, and fill out the necessary documentation.
It is important to note that the rules for driving overseas with an Australian licence may vary between countries and states. Therefore, it is recommended to always check the local requirements before travelling.
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Requirements for getting an Australian licence if you hold a foreign one
The requirements for obtaining an Australian driver's licence vary depending on several factors, including your visa status, the state or territory in which you are applying, and whether your home country has recognition status. Here are the key requirements to be aware of:
Visa Status
If you are a visitor to Australia, you can drive using your valid foreign driver's licence, as long as you comply with all the conditions of that licence. However, if you are a permanent resident or hold a temporary visa, you may need to obtain an Australian driver's licence, depending on the regulations of the specific state or territory.
State or Territory Regulations
The requirements for converting a foreign driver's licence vary across Australian states and territories. For example, in New South Wales (NSW), you can drive on a foreign licence for up to three months, after which you must visit a Service NSW Centre to transfer your licence. In the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), if your country has recognition status, you can obtain an ACT full licence without additional training or tests. However, if your country does not have recognition status, you may need to complete the ACT Pre-Learner Licence Course and undergo a practical driving assessment.
Recognition Status of Your Home Country
Australia has introduced revised arrangements for transitioning overseas-issued licences to Australian licences, including the concept of "recognition status". Countries with recognition status include the United States of America, among others. If your country has recognition status, the process for converting your licence may be streamlined or simplified. However, if you miss the deadline for exchanging your licence, or if your country does not have recognition status, you may need to undertake further training and testing before obtaining an Australian licence.
Documentation and Translation
When applying for an Australian driver's licence, you will need to provide documentation, including your foreign driver's licence. If your licence is not in English, you must also provide an official English translation from an approved source, such as an embassy, the Australian Department of Home Affairs, or a translator certified by NAATI (National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters). Additionally, if your vehicle had a Takata alpha airbag, you may need to provide a document stating that it has been replaced.
It is important to stay updated with the latest information as some states and territories are continuously updating their arrangements for overseas visitors and licence holders. For specific and up-to-date requirements, it is recommended to contact the relevant licensing authority or Australian road agency in your intended state or territory of residence.
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How to get an IDP in Australia
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a handy form of photo ID that can be useful when travelling in over 150 countries. It is a translation of a valid Australian driver's license and carries identification details in nine languages: English, Spanish, Japanese, Greek, German, Arabic, Russian, Chinese, and French. This can be helpful in case you need to communicate with foreign authorities. Some car rental companies will require an IDP before allowing you to hire a vehicle from them. IDPs are valid for 12 months from the date of issue and cost AUD 53.00.
To obtain an IDP in Australia, you must be an Australian driver's license holder. The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) and its member clubs are the only authorized distributors of IDPs in Australia. RACQ, an authorized sales agent of AAA, offers IDP services in Queensland.
You can apply for an IDP online through the AAA or RACQ websites. When applying online, ensure that your license is up to date and all details are legible. You will need to upload clear scans or photos of the front and back of your Australian driver's license. Your photo should have a white background and follow the guidelines for Australian passport photos.
If you need an IDP urgently, you can visit your nearest RACQ store and have your IDP issued instantly. For an in-store application, bring a printed passport photo and the required documents. Note that you cannot apply for an IDP on behalf of someone else.
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Driving laws and customs in countries that accept Australian licences
Australia has introduced revised arrangements for transitioning overseas-issued licences to Australian licences. These changes do not apply to visitors to Australia, who can drive on Australian roads using a valid overseas licence, provided they comply with all conditions of that licence. However, some states and territories have recently changed their arrangements for overseas visitors, so it is recommended to check local requirements.
Similarly, some countries allow driving with a valid Australian licence, but the laws and customs vary. Here are some examples:
United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta
In these countries, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road, similar to Australia. If you have been in the UK for fewer than 12 months, you can drive with your Australian licence without needing an International Driving Permit. However, some car hire companies may only rent to customers with an International Driving Permit, so it is essential to check before renting a car.
France
The speed limit in most city centres in France is 30 km/h, which is significantly lower than in some other countries.
India
If you are involved in a car accident in India, it is advised to go straight to the nearest police station, especially if you hit a cow or a pedestrian. This is to avoid becoming a victim of extortion or getting attacked, even if you were not the driver.
Thailand
Thailand's roads are considered among the most dangerous in the world, with high fatality rates. Road accidents are common, even in resort areas like Phuket, Pattaya, and Koh Samui. If you plan to drive a motorbike or scooter in Thailand, you will need an International Driving Permit in addition to your Australian licence. It is also important to be cautious during local holidays, such as Songkran (Thai New Year).
United States of America
The United States is recognised as a country with ''Recognition Status' for driving licences in Australia. This means that if you have a full driver's licence from the US, you can obtain an ACT full licence in Australia without needing to undergo additional training or tests. However, when visiting the US with an Australian licence, it is important to check the specific laws and requirements of the state you will be driving in.
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Frequently asked questions
Many countries will accept an Australian driver's license, but some also require an International Driving Permit (IDP). This is a United Nations-sanctioned translation of an Australian license into nine different languages.
The Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) is an authorised seller of IDPs in Victoria, Australia.
You will need a passport-style photo and a photo of the front and back of a valid physical driver's license.
Yes, always check the local driving laws and customs of your destination. For example, in France, the speed limit in most city centres is 30km/h, whereas in India, if you're in a car accident, you must go straight to the nearest police station, especially if you hit a cow or a pedestrian.
