As a Singaporean driver planning to drive overseas, you must obtain an International Driving Permit or IDP. This legal document is recognized in over 150 countries worldwide and translates your driving license in foreign languages.
Without an IDP, you may face difficulties with authorities in foreign countries, especially if you're stopped for a traffic violation or involved in an accident. Therefore, having an IDP with you while driving abroad is essential.
Different countries have different driving laws, and some require drivers to hold an IDP in addition to their national driving license. For example, countries such as Japan, Thailand, Italy, and many others require an IDP to drive legally.
In this guide, we'll examine the countries that require an IDP and their specific requirements. We'll also provide you with all the information you need on how to get an IDP in Singapore, including the necessary documents and application process.
Why IDP is Important
Well, we all love the thrill of driving, and when we're in a foreign land, that thrill is multiplied. However, driving in a foreign country can quickly turn into a nightmare if you need the right documentation.
That's where the International Driving Permit (IDP) comes in. If you're planning to drive overseas from Singapore, an IDP is a crucial document that you'll need. This article will explain why an IDP is important for international driving license holders in Singapore, the countries that require international driving permits, and how to get one in Singapore.
An international driving license Singapore holder who plans to drive abroad will need an IDP as it acts as a translation of their Singaporean driver's license. This document makes it easier to communicate with foreign authorities in case of an accident or traffic violation.
An IDP proves that you're a licensed driver in your home country and can help you avoid potential legal issues when driving in foreign countries.
Different countries have different driving laws, and some countries require drivers to hold an IDP and their national driving license. Some of the countries that require an IDP include Japan, Thailand, Italy, and many others. This article will provide information on what countries require international driving permits and their specific requirements.
The process to get an IDP in Singapore is relatively straightforward. You can apply for an IDP at the Automobile Association of Singapore (AAS). To apply for an IDP, you will need to provide a copy of your Singaporean driver's license, a passport-sized photograph, and pay a fee. We will provide more detailed information on how to get an IDP in Singapore later in the article.
Which Countries Require IDP
This section will discuss why an International Driving Permit (IDP) is important, the countries that require it, and how to obtain an IDP in Singapore.
You may be wondering what countries require international driving permits. In fact, over 140 countries worldwide require an International Driving Permit (IDP), including popular tourist destinations such as Japan, Australia, and the United States.
It acts as a translation of your Singaporean driver's license, allowing you to communicate with foreign authorities in case of an accident or traffic violation. Without an IDP, you may face difficulties renting a car, getting insurance, or even being allowed to drive in some countries.
It's important to note that some countries may also require a local driver's license and an IDP. To avoid any inconvenience, always check the specific driving requirements of the country you are visiting.
If you are a Singaporean driver planning to drive overseas, you can easily obtain an IDP from the Automobile Association of Singapore (AAS). To get an IDP, you will need to provide a copy of your Singaporean driver's license, a passport-sized photograph, and pay a fee. The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and can be used in any countries requiring an IDP.
How to Apply or Get IDP in Singapore
The final step you need to take to get your international driving license Singapore is to submit your application to the Automobile Association of Singapore (AAS). Here's how to do it:
1. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria
The first step to applying for an IDP in Singapore is to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. In order to be eligible for an IDP, you must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid Singaporean driver's license, and have a minimum of one year of driving experience. This means that if you have just obtained your driver's license, you may need to wait a year before applying for an IDP.
It's important to note that an IDP does not replace a valid driver's license. You must hold a valid Singaporean driver's license in order to apply for an IDP. Additionally, an IDP is only valid for one year, so you will need to renew it if you plan to continue driving abroad beyond that time period.
2. Prepare the required documents
Once you have ensured that you meet the eligibility criteria for an IDP, the next step is to gather the necessary documents. You will need the following:
A copy of your Singaporean driver's license: This is required to prove that you are a licensed driver in Singapore.
A passport-sized photograph: This is needed for your IDP application. The photograph must be recent and taken with a white background.
It's important to ensure that you have these documents before proceeding with the IDP application process. Having them on hand will make the application process much smoother and quicker. Additionally, make sure that the copy of your driver's license is clear and legible, as any illegible copies may result in a delay in the application process.
3. Submit your application
Once you have ensured that you meet the eligibility criteria and gathered all the required documents, you can proceed with submitting the application for the IDP. You have two options to apply for the IDP - in-person or online.
To apply in-person, you will need to visit the Automobile Association of Singapore (AAS) office during their operating hours. You will need to bring all the required documents mentioned in step 2 and submit them at the counter along with the application fee of SGD 20.
Alternatively, you can apply for the IDP online through the AAS website. To do so, you will need to create an account on their website, fill out the application form, and upload a scanned copy of your Singaporean driver's license, passport-sized photograph, and make the payment online.
Once the application is submitted and processed, you will receive a notification via email or phone to collect your IDP. In-person applicants can collect their IDP on the same day of application submission, whereas online applicants can expect to receive their IDP by post within 5 to 7 working days.
It's important to note that the IDP is valid for only one year, and you will need to renew it before it expires if you wish to continue driving abroad. The renewal process is similar to the application process, and you can apply for it both in-person and online through the AAS.
4. Collect your IDP
After submitting your application and payment, you will receive a notification from AAS when your IDP is ready for collection. You can collect your IDP from the AAS office in person or authorize someone to collect it on your behalf with a letter of authorization.
It is essential to note that the IDP is only valid for one year from the date of issue and is not renewable. If you plan to drive abroad again after your IDP has expired, you will need to apply for a new one following the same process.
Remember, having an international driving license in Singapore is necessary if you plan to drive in a foreign country. So, make sure to follow these simple steps to obtain your IDP and ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable driving experience abroad.
By following these simple steps, you can obtain your IDP and drive with confidence in foreign countries. Remember to always check the specific driving requirements of the country you're visiting, as some may also require a local driver's license in addition to an IDP.
And that's all you need to know about how to get an IDP in Singapore. With this permit, you can safely and legally drive in over 140 countries worldwide. Remember to always check the specific driving requirements of the country you are visiting to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip.
