If your upcoming business travel is going to take you away from your usual corporate housing San Diego destination, you may want to look into obtaining an international driver’s license or permit. Depending on how long your stay will be, renting a car may be cheaper and more convenient for you versus taking public transportation and taxis. As long as you are over 18 years old and have had a valid driver’s license issued by your home state for over six months, you are eligible to apply for an international driver’s permit, or IDP.
IDP’s are also recognized as valid identification in over 175 countries, making it a useful backup ID, should something happen to your original while traveling. Though not all rental companies require IDP’s for international rentals, many do. The process of obtaining one is relatively easy and only takes one day for walk-in processing or a few weeks through the mail.
If you live in the United States, you can obtain an IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the National Automobile Club. You can visit either provider’s website and print out the application. Depending on how quickly you will need a response, either mail it in or visit a local office. You will also need 2 passport-sized photos and a signed copy of your valid U.S. driver’s license, along with a check for $15 to complete the process. Your IDP will be valid for one year or until your existing state driver’s license expires. It is important to note that you should still carry your U.S. driver’s license when driving internationally.