British motorists who are planning to drive abroad this year are being warned of major permit changes being introduced today.
From today, April 1, 2024, drivers looking to head abroad this year will need to follow the advice of the DVLA and prepare before they set off.
When travelling abroad, drivers may need to use an International Driving Permit, which will now exclusively be available from participating PayPoint stores across the UK.
While an IDP is not needed for the majority of popular tourist destinations, there are more than 140 countries where the permit is recommended.
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IDPs are now exclusively available at PayPoint locations
PAThere are three types of IDP – 1926, 1949 and 1968. Some tourist hotspots require Britons to have an IDP if they are planning on driving there including Australia, Canada, Mexico and Turkey.
A 1926 or 1949 permit lasts for 12 years, while the 1968 permit lasts for three years or until their UK driving licence expires, whichever comes first.
When visiting a PayPoint location, drivers will need to bring their full valid GB or Northern Ireland driving licence, which can either be a photocard or the older paper licence.
They will need to pay the £5.50 application fee, as well as a recent passport standard photo and the original valid passport as proof of identification.
People can apply for an IDP for someone else provided they have all necessary documents including the driving licence, passport photo and the correct fee.
If someone will be driving through multiple trips during their journey which requires multiple IDPs, they will be able to get more than one IDP at a PayPoint branch, although they will need a passport photo for each permit.
The DVLA reminded motorists of the changes on social media earlier today, calling on drivers looking to travel overseas this summer to be aware of the update.
Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, the Government agency wrote: “Don’t forget, how you get an international driving permit has changed!
“IDPs are exclusively available from participating PayPoint stores across the UK.”
When on holiday, drivers are advised to check with their car rental company if they require an IDP or if it will be prepared before they arrive.
Before the April 1 deadline, drivers were able to get their IDP from a Post Office branch, with any new customers being able to get a permit at PayPoint locations.
The DVLA is also urging drivers to check on GOV.UK or on the PayPoint website to see whether their local branch handles the service or if they will need to plan in advance to get one.
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IDPs are recommended in around 140 countries
PA
According to PayPoint, people holding a licence from the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, a foreign country or driving under a diplomatic licence are not eligible to apply.