Foreign Nationals Driving in the United States People who drive in the U.S. Must have a valid driver's license. If you're a foreign visitor, some states require you to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) and a valid license from your own country. An International Driver License allows an individual to drive a private motor vehicle in another nation when accompanied by a valid license from their home country. This amendment requires the international driver’s license to contain additional identifiable information pertaining to the Holder of the license. The purpose of this additional information is to aid law enforcement officers in case of an emergency or any other issue that may arise on the road involving the license holder. What Are International Driving Permits? The International Driving Permit (IDP), often (and incorrectly) referred to as International Driving License, is a document that, along with your valid home driver's license, allows you to legally drive a motor vehicle while abroad. An International Driver's Permit (IDP) allows you to drive a vehicle in another country, as long as you also have a valid driver's license issued by your state. It is also recognized as a valid form of identification in over 175 countries as well as by many major car rental companies internationally.
An International Driver Permit (IDP) is essentially an English translation of a foreign language driver's license issued by a foreign country. These permits can only be obtained in the country which issued the actual license.
Students and Visitors to Connecticut:
An IDP is not considered a valid license. It must accompany the valid foreign license. Connecticut permits a student or visitor to operate a motor vehicle in Connecticut for a period of up to one year with his or her foreign license. If the license is in a language other than English or Spanish, the license must be accompanied by an IDP which serves as an English translation of the foreign license.
Note: Out-of-country licenses are not acceptable as a form of identification.
Connecticut Residents Traveling Abroad:
If you hold a Connecticut Driver's License and will be traveling abroad for an extended stay in a non-English speaking country and you plan to operate a motor vehicle there, you can obtain an IDP by contacting your local Automobile Association of America (AAA).