Summer is approaching, and with it the desire to return to our beloved Italy to enjoy the long-awaited holidays: the scent of the sea, the flavors of traditional cuisine, the beauty of our landscapes.
If among your plans there is also that of getting behind the wheel to better explore the wonders of the Bel Paese, it is essential to pay attention to an often underestimated detail: the driving license.
Do you only have a driving license from your country of residence? Here’s What You Need to Know to Drive in Italy
It is important to immediately clarify a crucial point: if your driving license was issued by a country outside the European Union (such as the United States, Canada, Australia, Switzerland, post-Brexit United Kingdom and many others) and you do not have an Italian license, Italian legislation provides specific rules to be able to drive legally during your tourist stay.
The Answer Is Again: The International Driving Permit (PID)
Also in this case, to avoid unpleasant inconveniences and possible sanctions, the solution is to obtain the International Driving Permit (PID) issued by the competent authorities of your country of residence (for example, AAA or AATA in the USA, CAA in Canada). This document is essential because it certifies the validity of your foreign license according to international standards and is recognized in Italy.
Why is the PID essential if you only have a foreign driving licence?
- Fundamental Legal Requirement: Italian law clearly establishes that to temporarily drive in Italy with a license issued by a non-EU country, you must be in possession of a valid International Driving Permit (PID), accompanied by the original driving license of the foreign country.
- Official Translation: The PID serves as the official translation of your license, making the information contained in your driving document clear to the Italian authorities.
- Car Rental Essential: Car rental agencies in ItalySystematically request the PID as a condition for renting a vehicle if you only have a non-EU driving licence. Without it, the rental may be rejected.
- Avoid Severe Penalties: Driving without a PID, when you only have a non-EU foreign licence, is considered a violation and can lead to considerable fines and seizure of your vehicle.
Remember: The International Driving Permit must always be shown together with your original driving license issued by the non-EU country in which you reside. Both documents must be valid.
Don’t risk your holiday: find out now how to obtain the PID!
Obtaining the International Driving Permit from your country of residence is a crucial step in being able to drive in Italy legally and smoothly, especially if you do not have an Italian license. In the next articles, I will explain in detail how to request it from countries such as the United States and Canada, providing you with all the necessary information.
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Have you already requested the PID from your country of residence? What was your experience? Share it in the comments to help other readers!
