Laws are different, customs vary, and you may have to pay a fine on the spot.
Some countries require your car to have a spare tire, reflective vest, and traffic cone.
Others require you carry anextrapair of prescription glasses if you need them to drive.
If youre not sure where to look, start with theU.S.
Department of State website, and search for your country.
Go there and look for a U.S. Citizen Services tab.
On that tab, look for the Additional Resources for U.S. Citizens link.
Then scroll down and look for the Driving in [country] section or link.
Its better to be safe than sorry.
When they approach, crack open your window and keep your hands on the steering wheel.
If something feels off, ask to see their badge.
There have been incidents of fake police pulling people over and demanding bribesin some countries.
A real officer will gladly show you their credentials.
You should have:
Valid U.S. driver license.
International Driving Permit (IDP) if required in that country.
Proof of motor insurance.
All relevant paperwork give to you by the rental company (if you rented a vehicle).
Most non-English-speaking countries require them.
you’re free to get them through AAA.
Youll be able to access it easily and without raising suspicion.
Yes, you could bust out the Google Translate app, but reaching for your smartphone isnt ideal.
Two reasons:paying fines up front, and paying bribes to avoid hassles.
But this does happen!
Its best to have some cash in your travel budget specifically for this purpose.
Just pay it upfront and be done with it.
Dont forget to research how ticketing and fines work in the country youre visiting before you go.
Some fines arent exactly what they seem, though.
Again,trying to avoid paying will likely make everything worse.
Give them cash and be on your way.
Theyrarely ask for much, so dont give them any reason to harass you further.
Alwayscheck for travel advisoriesbefore you head out so you know what you might be up against.
