Travel Guide: Driving Abroad

In this part of my travel guide, I would like to inform you on driving abroad, together with some tips.

• Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP).
•  Carry both your IDP and your countries driver’s license with you at all times, as many countries have different driving rules. If possible, obtain a copy of the foreign country’s driving laws before you begin driving in that country. Information may be available from the foreign country’s embassy  in the United States, foreign government tourism offices or from a car rental company in the foreign country.
•  Check to see if the country of destination has a minimum and maximum driving age.
•  Some countries require cars that ride national highways to have special highway stickers or a special road permit, this instead of tolls. They will fine those found driving without a permit. If you rent a car, it should be provided by the renting company, but check if you are crossing a border you have that one as well.
•  Always “buckle up”. Also in the back seats! Some countries have penalties for people who violate this law.
•  Many countries require you to honk your horn before going around a sharp corner or to flash your lights before   passing.
•  If you rent a car, make sure you have liability insurance. If you do not, this could lead to financial hardship.
•  If the drivers in the country you are visiting drive on the left side of the road, it may be prudent to practice driving in a less populated area before attempting to drive in heavy traffic.
•  In Europe, on a two-roads (or more) highway, the fast-lane is for passing other cars. If there is a car behind you, stuck on your bumper of flashing their lights at you, it wants to pass you.
•  Always know the route you will be traveling. Have a good road map, and chart your course before beginning.
•  Do not pick up hitchhikers or strangers.
•  When entering or exiting your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.

 

Source of information: the US Department of State, Travel.state.gov.

For more information: Road Safety Overseas.

Related to travel guide: driving abroad
Is your countries driver’s license sufficient to drive abroad?
Driving tips in Europe
Driving tips in the USA