Is an International Driving Permit Required to Drive in Guatemala?
I'm traveling to Guatemala in April and planning to rent a car to explore the country. Is my national driver's license enough, or do I need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP)? Are local authorities strict about this? And what about insurance coverage in case of an accident?
Technically, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required to drive in Guatemala. However, a valid national driver's license is usually accepted without any issues by local authorities.
That said, having an IDP is highly recommended, especially for renting a car. Some rental companies and insurance providers may require it, and in case of an accident, your claim could be denied if you don't have one at the time of the incident.
To avoid complications, it's best to get an IDP before your trip. It's easy to apply for in most countries and can also be useful in other Central American destinations.