International Car Rental: Country-by-Country Rules You Need to Know
Driving in a new country or unfamiliar conditions requires preparation. The rules, roads, and rental expectations can be very different from what you are used to.
• Get an International Driving Permit before traveling abroad
• Ask about toll systems at the rental counter
• Book automatic transmission in left side driving countries
• Download offline maps for rural areas
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International Driving Permits (IDP)
An IDP is a translation of your driver's license into multiple languages. It's required in many countries and costs only $20 from AAA in the US. Countries that strictly require an IDP include Italy, Japan, Greece, Austria, and most of Southeast Asia. Even in countries where it's not legally required, having one can prevent problems with police and rental agencies.
Which Side of the Road?
About 35% of the world drives on the left, including the UK, Ireland, Australia, Japan, India, and most of Southeast Asia. If you're not used to driving on the left, budget extra time for your first few hours and consider renting an automatic transmission — shifting gears with your left hand while driving on the left is a lot to manage simultaneously.
Toll Systems Around the World
Tolls work differently everywhere. In France and Italy, you take a ticket at the entrance and pay at the exit. In the UK, the M6 Toll and Dartford Crossing use electronic billing. In Portugal, many highways are fully electronic with no cash option — you must pre-register your plate or buy a temporary toll device. Ask your rental company about toll solutions before driving off.
Insurance Considerations Abroad
Your US credit card's CDW coverage may not apply in certain countries. Common exclusions include Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Australia, and New Zealand. Check your card's benefits guide for the specific exclusion list. In the EU, basic third-party liability insurance is included in the rental price by law, but CDW coverage varies.
Speed Cameras and Fines
Many European countries use automated speed cameras extensively. Fines can follow you home — rental companies will charge your credit card for any tickets and add an administrative fee of $30-50 per violation. Use a GPS app like Waze that warns you about speed cameras.
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