What is the USAREUR driving licence?
The USAREUR driving licence is a special permit issued by the U.S. Army in Europe (USAREUR). It allows US soldiers, civilian employees, and their family members to drive in Germany without having to obtain the regular German driving licence.
Where is the USAREUR driving licence valid?
- The USAREUR driving licence is valid in Germany for persons covered by the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), i.e. for US military personnel and their families during their stay in Germany.
- For journeys outside Germany (e.g. to other European countries), it is recommended to also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP), as the USAREUR driving licence is not recognised everywhere and in some countries an IDP is required.
Do you no longer need an international driving permit with the USAREUR driving licence?
No, the USAREUR driving licence does not fully replace the international driving permit. For journeys outside Germany, an international driving permit is still recommended or even required, depending on the destination country. It is important to check the specific regulations of the country before travelling.
In summary:
The USAREUR driving licence is valid for driving in Germany for US military personnel and their families. For other European countries, an international driving permit is usually also necessary.