Interest in international driving licenses has surged this year in the Czech Republic. Since the beginning of the year, more than 40,000 international driving licenses have been issued, representing a ten percent increase compared to the same period last year, according to the latest data from the Ministry of Transport.
International driving licenses are particularly necessary for travel outside the European Union, Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, serving as a supplement to the standard driving license. In the first six months of this year, authorities issued a record 40,569 international driving licenses, according to news channel ČT24. Demand spiked in June, with over 7,000 drivers obtaining their international driving licenses.
Authorities offer two versions of international driving licenses, depending on the destination countries. The version required for travel to Canada, Australia, and the USA was particularly popular this year, with over 26,000 licenses issued. The second version, used in countries such as Brazil, Albania, and Belarus, saw slightly lower demand, with around 14,000 licenses issued. This version of the international driving license is valid for three years.
Some countries recognize both versions of the international driving license. However, it remains the responsibility of the traveler to verify the specific regulations of the destination country.
Any holder of a Czech driving license can apply for an international driving license at any of the 206 local authorities across the Czech Republic. The application process is not restricted by the applicant’s place of residence and requires a valid identity card, driving license, and a passport photo.
