An International Driving Permit (IDP) allows foreign drivers to legally drive in countries where their domestic driver’s license is not enough. If you are planning to drive in Russia as a tourist or on a short-term visit, having an IDP in addition to your home country’s driver’s license is typically required or recommended. An IDP translates your domestic license into multiple languages and helps ensure that you can rent a car or drive legally in Russia without encountering issues.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) for driving in Russia.
1. What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
An IDP is an internationally recognized document that provides a translation of your domestic driver’s license into multiple languages, including Russian. It allows authorities in foreign countries to easily verify that you are authorized to drive. The IDP is recognized by the United Nations and is valid in over 150 countries, including Russia.
It’s important to note that an IDP does not replace your domestic driver’s license. It is an addition to your home country’s license, which must be carried along with the IDP when driving.
2. Who Needs an IDP to Drive in Russia?
Foreign nationals who wish to drive in Russia need an IDP if they:
- Are visiting as a tourist and intend to rent or drive a car in Russia.
- Are staying for a short period (less than 6 months) and don’t have a Russian driver’s license.
- Come from a country that has signed the Geneva Convention on Road Traffic (which is nearly all countries except a few).
When Is an IDP Not Required?
- If you are a resident of Russia with a temporary residence permit or permanent residence, you will likely need to exchange your foreign driver’s license for a Russian driver’s license after living in Russia for a certain period (usually 1 year or more).
- Long-term residents may not need an IDP if they have already exchanged their driver’s license for a Russian one.
3. How to Apply for an IDP
You can obtain an International Driving Permit from an authorized agency in your home country. The process is simple and requires a few basic steps.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Check with your home country’s issuing authority (such as your local motor vehicle department or an auto club) to confirm that you are eligible for an IDP. Most countries require that applicants:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Hold a valid domestic driver’s license (you cannot apply for an IDP if your domestic driver’s license is expired or suspended).
- Have a valid passport.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
To apply for an IDP, you will typically need the following:
- Valid Domestic Driver’s License: A photocopy of your valid driver’s license.
- Passport-Sized Photo: You may need one or two passport-sized photos.
- Passport: Some issuing authorities require a valid passport to confirm your identity.
- Application Form: A completed IDP application form (which you can often download from the issuing authority’s website).
- Payment: A small fee for processing the IDP application.
Step 3: Submit the Application
You can submit the application in person, by mail, or online (depending on your home country’s procedure):
- In Person: You can visit a local motor vehicle department or an authorized club (such as the American Automobile Association (AAA) in the U.S. or the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) in the UK).
- By Mail: Some countries allow you to mail in your application with the required documents and payment.
- Online: Many countries offer the option to apply for an IDP online through authorized websites.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Once your application is submitted, processing usually takes a few days to a couple of weeks depending on the issuing authority and your country’s procedures. In some cases, you can receive your IDP the same day if applying in person.
Step 5: Receive Your IDP
Once your application is approved, you will receive your International Driving Permit. The IDP will be a booklet that includes translations of your driving credentials in several languages (including Russian), making it easier for authorities in Russia to understand your driving qualifications.
4. Where Can You Use an IDP in Russia?
The IDP allows you to drive in Russia for up to 90 days (under a tourist visa or as a visitor). After this period, if you plan to stay longer or become a resident, you will be required to obtain a Russian driver’s license.
- Renting a Car: If you are planning to rent a car in Russia, most rental agencies will require you to present an IDP in addition to your national driver’s license.
- Traffic Police: If stopped by the police, presenting an IDP will allow them to easily verify that you are authorized to drive in Russia.
5. Key Points to Remember When Using an IDP in Russia
- Always Carry Your Domestic License: An IDP is not a substitute for your domestic driver’s license. You must carry both documents when driving in Russia.
- Driving Restrictions: Your IDP is valid for up to 90 days in Russia if you are a tourist. If you are planning to stay longer, you will need to obtain a Russian driver’s license.
- Comply with Russian Traffic Laws: As a foreign driver, you are expected to adhere to all Russian traffic laws (e.g., speed limits, seatbelt use, and alcohol limits). Failure to do so can result in fines or even arrest.
- Language Barrier: An IDP translates your driver’s license into Russian, helping bridge any language barrier with local authorities.
6. Where to Apply for an IDP
Depending on your home country, IDPs can typically be obtained through:
- Automobile Clubs: Many countries, such as the United States, the UK, and Canada, have automobile clubs (e.g., AAA, AA, CAA) that issue IDPs.
- National Transport Authorities: Some countries issue IDPs directly through their national motor vehicle department.
- Online Services: Some countries allow you to apply for an IDP through authorized online services.
Conclusion
Obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) is an important step if you plan to drive in Russia as a tourist or on a short-term visit. The IDP serves as a translation of your home country’s driver’s license into multiple languages, including Russian, and ensures that you can drive legally in Russia without issues. Make sure to apply well in advance and carry both your domestic driver’s license and IDP when driving in Russia. Always be aware of the local traffic laws and road safety requirements to ensure a safe and legal driving experience.
