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International Driving Permits and License Requirements for RV Rentals
Why driving licence rules matter for international RV travel
If you are planning your first RV or campervan holiday in the United States, understanding US driving licence rules is essential. Rental companies, police officers, and insurance providers may all check that you are correctly licensed to drive a particular vehicle. Many international visitors assume their home licence is enough, but requirements in the USA can differ from Europe and may vary by state, vehicle type, and rental company, especially for RVs that are heavier, longer, or involve towing.
This page explains when you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP), what type of licence is typically accepted, and how US practices compare with common European rules. It also covers practical checks you should make before collecting an RV, helping you avoid delays or misunderstandings at the rental desk.
Do you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in the USA?
In many US states, visitors may legally drive with a full, valid licence issued in their home country. However, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended and may be required by some RV rental companies or insurers, depending on location and circumstances.
An IDP is a certified translation of your existing licence. It is not a standalone licence and must be carried together with your original one. If your home licence is not printed in English, an IDP becomes particularly useful.
- You must obtain an IDP before leaving your home country.
- IDPs are commonly issued by national automobile associations.
- The USA generally recognises IDPs issued under the 1949 or 1968 conventions, but acceptance and enforcement can vary by state.
Why rental companies may require an IDP
Even where state law does not clearly require an IDP, many US RV suppliers ask for one because:
- It allows staff and police to quickly read your licence details in English.
- It can support insurance and claims processing in the event of an accident.
- It helps reduce disputes about licence categories, issue dates, or driving history.
If you are unsure, see the driving-licence FAQ for practical renter questions.
Licence classes and RV size differences
In the USA, many RVs are driven using what is equivalent to a standard passenger car licence. This differs from parts of Europe, where strict weight limits (for example 3.5 tonnes) can restrict campervan access. However, rules and enforcement can vary by state and may differ for motorised RVs versus vehicles that tow trailers.
- Most Class B and Class C motorhomes are commonly accepted on a standard car licence.
- Large Class A motorhomes are often rented to visitors without requiring a special licence, though this can depend on state law and company policy.
- Pick-up trucks towing travel trailers or fifth wheels may be subject to different length, weight, or experience requirements than motorised RVs.
Rental companies will confirm whether your licence is suitable for the specific vehicle you choose.
US driving terminology you should understand
American RV travel uses terms that may be unfamiliar to European travellers:
- Miles and miles per hour: Distances and speed limits use miles, not kilometres.
- Gallons: Fuel is sold by the US gallon (1 US gallon ≈ 3.8 litres).
- Class A, B, C: RV size categories, not licence types.
- Boondocking: Camping without any water, power, or sewer hookups.
- Full hookups: A campsite with electricity, fresh water, and sewer connections.
- Dump station: A designated place to empty wastewater tanks.
- State park: A government-operated park with regulated campgrounds and rules.
State-by-state differences to be aware of
Driving licence recognition is broadly similar across the USA, but specific rules and enforcement practices can vary by state. Popular arrival points like Orlando and New York see many international drivers, though this familiarity should not be assumed everywhere.
Carrying an IDP alongside your home licence can make roadside checks or interactions with rangers smoother, particularly in rural areas, smaller towns, or national parks.
Insurance and licence checks at pickup
When collecting your RV, expect staff to:
- Check your original driving licence.
- Request an IDP if you have one.
- Confirm the licence holder matches the primary driver on the contract.
If multiple people plan to drive, each driver must usually present a valid licence and may also need an IDP. Minimum age requirements for RV rental (often higher than for cars) are set by rental companies and insurers and should be checked in advance.
Before you travel: a simple checklist
- Confirm your licence is valid for the entire trip.
- Check minimum age and driver eligibility rules with your rental company.
- Apply for an IDP well before departure.
- Bring both documents to the USA.
- Review licence and towing requirements in your rental confirmation.
Once your licence documents are in order, you can focus on vehicle choice, route planning, and campground bookings. When ready, check RV availability across the USA on USARVRentals.com.
Other Things to Consider
- RV Checklists for Pick-Up Day
- RV Height, Weight, and Length Restrictions
- RV Power, Batteries, and Generators Explained
- RV Travel in the Southwest (Arizona, Utah, Nevada)
- RV Travel with Children in the USA
- State RV Rules: Utah
- Understanding RV Pick-Up and Drop-Off Procedures in the USA
- Understanding RV Rental Insurance in the United States