Getting a Driver’s License When Moving Internationally

If you plan on driving when moving abroad, it’s advisable to get an international driving permit, even if you don’t plan on doing much driving. The permit is valid in over 150 countries and is translated into 10 languages. It’s necessary for driving but can also be used as a universal identification.  It’s a good idea to investigate the driving laws in your new country as soon as you arrive.  Each country has different rules set up regarding how quickly you need to get a new license after you arrive and what information you will need to provide to get one.

Some countries honor a United States driving license while others don’t.  You may also need an international driving license or international permit, which is a certification of license and is available in nine languages. A grace period is usually given when you arrive in a new country in order to give you time to obtain the proper permits and licenses. Be prepared to take a whole new test which may include a written exam, eye exam and actual driving test.

If you’re moving to a country, such as Australia or Britain, that drives on the opposite side of the road, you will want to get some good practice in before having to take the actual examination.  Even experienced drives may find some serious challenges in navigating roads that have a completely different orientation.

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