International Drivers Permit

[ozchick]

Are there any Aussies who can advise on getting my Australian (Victorian) Driver's license converted to an International Permit ? I've tried the High Commission here and they say to call Vicroads back home. Vicroads say to call the RACV which I did and yes they can do this but it apparently all has to be done by 'snail mail' via the advice on their website. Sigh...Do have the facts straight here ?
PS Is it better to get an Sg license and then convert this to international ?

[micknlea]

What they said is about right, and it does have to be done via snail mail, same as renewing your Victorian licence whilst overseas really - that is a real pain.

Is there any reason you really need an international licence? We have never bothered as most places will accept your home licence as long as it is current and has been for over 6 months etc. Having said that of course we have Singapore licences now as well as Victorian ones.

[ozchick]

What they said is about right, and it does have to be done via snail mail, same as renewing your Victorian licence whilst overseas really - that is a real pain.

Is there any reason you really need an international licence? We have never bothered as most places will accept your home licence as long as it is current and has been for over 6 months etc. Having said that of course we have Singapore licences now as well as Victorian ones.

Yeah good point. Want to drive in Europe at the end of this week. It'll probably be fine...mm...I could just act like I 'thought' it was fine if I come unstuck yeah ?

[micknlea]

You might just have to do it that way, no way could you organise anything by the end of the week! Check the rental sites they normally tell you the requirements. Have fun.

[sierra2469alpha]

Oz - yep IDP's are issued by the state motoring organisations like RACV, NRMA, RACQ etc. Maybe see what the procedure is if you are overseas and cannot send your licence back to a family/friend.

We don't have any trips planned back ATM otherwise I'd offer to do it for you.

Cheers, P

[Strong Eagle]

All you have to do is go to the Automobile Association of Singapore and get the international driving license there.

http://www.aas.com.sg/

http://www.aas.com.sg/services/permit.htm

But only works if you have your Sing license.

And yes, definitely convert your license. You keep your old one and do not ever have to take the gawd awful time consuming training to get an SG license. Only takes a written test. Do it within 12 months of your arrival.