← Lessons 22-Driver Licensing

15. International Issues

  • Some countries do not accept a UK driving licence on its own.
  • The training material specifically identifies Russia, Ukraine and most of the Middle East as areas where an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required.
  • An IDP must cover the category of vehicle being driven.
  • The IDP does not replace the UK driving licence; the UK licence must also be carried.
  • The material states that an IDP is valid for 1 year.
  • Drivers should check the specific rules and maximum stay permitted in each country.
  • Drivers on international journeys are strongly advised to carry a company letter authorising them to drive the vehicle.
  • The material identifies France and Germany as examples where such authorisation may be legally required.
  • The authorisation letter should identify the vehicle registration and describe the vehicle; a time limit may also be included.
  • French and German translations are recommended in the material.
  • A UK operator using a non-EU resident driver internationally may need a driver attestation.
  • The driver attestation confirms that the driver has the required documents and is properly employed by the operator.
  • The material states that a driver attestation is valid for a maximum of 5 years.