Information About Car Insurance International Driving License

If you plan to travel abroad and intend to drive while you are there, here are some important facts about car insurance international driving license. The first thing to do is contact the consulate or embassy of the country, or countries, that you are visiting. There are quite a few countries that do not recognize a driving license granted in the USA.

However, most countries will accept an IDP (international driver's permit). You can acquire one at any Automobile Association office. You must be over the age of 18 to qualify. Take 2 passport size photographs and your USA driver's license.

While abroad, you will use a car from a rental company. Car rental companies provide auto insurance. Discuss this with a representative from the company to ascertain exactly what the coverage includes. There are some countries that only require minimal auto insurance. The best idea would be to ask for the same type of auto cover that your policy at home includes.

In most cases, your US auto insurance policy will not cover you while abroad. But your policy may be valid if you are driving to countries that border the USA. Ask your insurance company for these details. Also check that your policy complies with any minimum requirements by such countries.

Canada, for example, requires foreigners to have liability insurance of $200,000 before you will be allowed to drive. Mexico is also fairly rigid about foreign drivers. If the vehicle you drive in Mexico is not insured for third party, theft, and comprehensive insurance, you will have to pay a bond of up to 50% of the vehicle's value.

When driving abroad always carry your state driver's license as well as your IDP. If you should lose your IDP, you will be able to re-apply for a new one. Before arriving at your destination, check up on the driving laws of the countries you are visiting. Many countries have age restrictions regarding youngsters and elderly drivers.

It's also a good idea to check on the type of roads and terrain you will be driving on. This will ensure that you get a suitable vehicle from the car rental company, as well as the necessary auto insurance. There are many different driving requirements abroad, for example, some countries differ about which driver has right of way at a traffic circle.

To reduce any likelihood of having to make an auto claim while abroad, here are a few tips. Always carry a good road map. Never pick up strangers or hitch hikers. And finally, be aware of all the rules of the road before driving in any foreign country.