International Drivers Licenses are a SCAM!

WisDOT cautions drivers; international driver's license is a fraud

• It should not be confused with an International Driving Permit (IDP) which can be purchased from an automobile association

April 30, 2002
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) warns drivers that international driver's licenses do not exist. They are a scam. Any individual or company trying to sell them should be avoided. Claims regarding these non-existent, worthless documents are many and are increasing on the Internet. Be wary of claims such as:

Need a new driver's license? Too many points or other license trouble? Want a license that can never be suspended or revoked? Want ID for nightclubs or hotel check-in? Avoid tickets, fines and mandatory driver's education. Protect your privacy, and hide your identity. Take advantage of your rights. Order a valid International Driver's License that can never be suspended or revoked. Confidentiality assured. Call now!

Division of Motor Vehicles Administrator Roger Cross points out, "This scam is all the more confusing because something called an International Driving Permit does exist." International Driving Permits (IDPs) may be purchased for $10 from an automobile association authorized by the U.S. Department of State. At this point, only the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance are authorized distributors. IDPs are honored in more than 150 countries outside the United States and function as a legal identification document that translates U.S. driver's license information into 11 foreign languages. An IDP is not a replacement for a valid U.S. state license and should only be used as a supplement nor is it valid in an individual's country of residence. A driver would only need an IDP if visiting a country that doesn't recognize a driver's license from the United States or renting a car from a company that requires one.

Cross further stated, "In a time when valid forms of identity are of increased importance, we want to ensure that our customers have all the facts. An international driver's license is a scam. An International Driving Permit is not."

NOTICE TO PERSONS WITH A SUSPENDED OR REVOKED DRIVERS LICENSE:

If you are presently without your license due to a DUI / DWI / OUI / OWI / DUII / OMVI / DUIL Driver's License suspension / revocation, or due to other causes (e.g. "points"), our attorneys may be able to LEGALLY assist you in obtaining a LIMITED PERMIT, or in LEGALLY finding a way to get licensed in another state. Not all drivers are immediately eligible, but federal law provides relief for many drivers who have endured a TOTAL license suspension or license revocation all driving privileges for 12 months or longer. Go to our national map and CLICK ON THE STATE WHERE YOUR LICENSE IS SUSPENDED.