Is that International Driving Permit site a scam? How to check
Before you pay anyone for an IDP, run this quick legitimacy check.
What a legitimate IDP actually is
A real International Driving Permit is an official translation of the licence you already hold, in the UN 1949 Geneva / 1968 Vienna format. It is always carried with your national licence and never grants driving rights on its own.
Red flags of a scam
- Claims you can drive without a national licence.
- Advertises an "official government driving licence."
- Guarantees acceptance "in every country, no exceptions."
- Never mentions the UN conventions or carrying your original licence.
- Wildly high prices, or no sample and no verification.
How to verify a provider
Trustworthy services are transparent that the document is a certified translation/companion, show a real sample document, explain that acceptance varies by country, use secure checkout, and publish contact, terms and refund details. Read our deeper guide on telling real online IDPs from fakes.
Why International DL is legitimate
We issue a certified multi-language translation companion to your national licence, show you exactly what you'll receive before you buy, process payments securely, and back it with clear terms and refund guidelines. You always carry it alongside your national licence.
Are online International Driving Permits a scam?
Not inherently — a legitimate online IDP is a real certified translation of your licence. But the niche attracts scams, so check the provider is transparent and never claims to replace your national licence.
How do I know if an IDP website is legitimate?
It should describe the IDP as a translation/companion (not a standalone licence), cite the UN 1949/1968 conventions, show a real sample, explain that acceptance varies, and use secure checkout.
Is International DL legitimate?
Yes. We issue a certified translation companion to your national licence, show a sample document, use secure Stripe checkout, and publish clear terms and refund guidelines.
Get a legitimate IDP you can verify
Digital issuance plus optional worldwide shipping — ready before you fly.
Get my IDP →Information only, not legal advice. Acceptance of any IDP varies by country, region and authority — always confirm current requirements before you travel.