What Filipino and non-Filipino renters should prepare in renting at Car Rental Davao

• Passport
• Valid English driver’s license (or English translation)
• Passport entry stamp (valid within the last 90 days)

Whenever you are out of the country and want to rent a car, car rental agencies in most countries often ask foreigners for an International Driver’s License. Also known as International Driving Permit, this has become a primary requirement for renters. Most travelers, however, do not know the nitty-gritty of this and often they are confused about its use. Is it really necessary for renters? Are they really required to begin with?

First off, there’s no such thing as an International Driver’s License. The correct term is International Driving Permit or IDP. 

IDP is a document, accompanied by your driver’s license, recognized in 174 countries. This piece of paper allows you to drive a vehicle abroad legally.

IDP is consists of your full name, photo and driver information. Suppose you are at least 18 years old, a permanent resident of your country and have a driver’s license. In that case, you are eligible for an International Driving Permit. 

This piece of document remains valid for six months from the date of its issuance.

No. Only Filipinos can obtain an IDP in the Philippines. As mentioned, your IDP must come from your home country. You can order it online, as most countries currently accept online processing of International Driving Permit.

• Always follow traffic rules in the Philippines to avoid getting fined or, worse, getting your driver’s license confiscated.
• Bring your driver’s license and IDP wherever you drive in the country, as the IDP cannot be verified without your driver’s license.
• Smoke-belching vehicles are banned here in the Philippines.
• The use of mobile phones and other gadgets while driving is highly prohibited.
• Driving under the influence can get your IDP revoked, or, worst, you will serve jail time plus community service.