Yes, you can typically drive in Europe with a valid US driver's license, but the rules are not universal and depend heavily on the specific country you're visiting. For most tourists, your US license is valid for short-term visits, usually up to 90 days. However, many European countries legally require an International Driving Permit (IDP) to be carried alongside your US license. The IDP acts as a standardized, multi-language translation of your license and is recognized under a United Nations treaty. Renting a car is often where this requirement is strictly enforced; without an IDP, rental companies may refuse to hand over the keys.
The critical factor is the country you're entering. For example, Italy, Spain, and Germany strongly recommend or mandate an IDP. Conversely, the UK and Ireland generally allow driving with just a US license for visitors. It's not a substitute for your US license but a supplemental document. You must obtain the IDP in the United States before your trip through authorized providers like the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). You'll need your valid US license, passport photos, and a small fee.
Always check the US embassy website for your destination country for the most current driving requirements. Key considerations include:
- Rental Car Policies: Even if a country doesn't legally require an IDP, your rental car company's policy might.
- License Validity: Your US license must be valid and not suspended.
- Driving Age: The minimum age to rent a car in Europe is often 21-25, with young driver surcharges applying.
| Country | IDP Required? | Typical Max Duration with US License | Notes |
|---|
| Italy | Yes, highly recommended/often required | 1 year | Rental agencies almost always require it. |
| France | Yes, for non-EU licenses | 1 year | Legally required for US license holders. |
| Germany | Yes, strongly recommended | 6 months | Required if your license lacks a photo or is not in Roman script. |
| Spain | Yes, mandatory | 6 months | You will be fined if stopped without one. |
| United Kingdom | No | 12 months | Your US license is sufficient for visits. |
| Ireland | No | 12 months | US license is generally acceptable for tourists. |
