To drive in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or the United States, you must hold full driving rights. This means you must have a full, valid driver’s licence, and probationary, learner, or training licences are usually not accepted.

Confused about whether you can drive with your international license? In this article, we explain the rules for driving with an international license in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States.

If you are travelling in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or the USA, you will need to have a valid driver’s license from your home country. If your license is not in English, you will need to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official translation of your license.

• Driving in Australia You can drive using your foreign drivers licence for up to three months, as long as it is in English. If it doesn’t have a photo you should always carry your passport with you when you drive. If your licence is not in English you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP), which you can get from your local automobile association before you leave home. Tourism Australia

• Driving in New Zealand If you have a current and valid overseas driver's license or driver permit, and you have not been disqualified or suspended from driving in New Zealand, you are allowed to drive in the country even without a New Zealand driver's license. This applies if you entered New Zealand less than 12 months ago and your overseas license is in English or if you have an accurate translation of it. Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency

• Driving in the USA Depending on the U.S. states you will visit, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) as well as a driving permit from your country. Not every U.S. state requires an IDP. Contact the state department of motor vehicles for each state you plan to drive in to see if they require an IDP. usa.gov

• Driving in Canada If you have a valid licence from your home country, you’ll probably be able to use this to drive in Canada for a short time after you arrive. Check with the government of the province or territory for details. Government of Canada

What counts as an English license?

An english license is a license that can be read an understood by an English speaker. European licenses are generally accepted as they can be interpreted by an English speaker. For example, a French, German, or Spanish license is acceptable. However, a Chinese license is not.

How do I get an official translation of my license? (Australia)

If your licence isn't in English, you should carry a recognised English translation of it when you're driving. Show this translation to police when you have to show your driver licence. The National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) has a list of approved translators.

What if I book and my license is not accepted?

If you are unsure if your license will be accepted, please contact us and we will be able to help you. We understand that this can be a confusing process. We are here to help.

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