Planning a Peruvian road trip whether from the sun drenched beaches of Máncora to the heights of the Sacred Valley means freedom at your fingertips. But before you grip the steering wheel, you need to know: Can I drive in Peru with a US license? Spoiler: Yes but only if you follow the rules.

Understanding Peru’s Rules for Foreign Drivers

• Recognition of US Licenses

  • Peru recognizes valid foreign driver’s licenses, including those issued in the United States. You can legally drive on your US license for up to 183 days (roughly six months) as a tourist.
    

• International Driving License (IDL)

  • While your US license grants legal permission, many rental agencies and traffic officers require you to carry an IDL alongside it. An International Driving License translates your license into multiple languages, smoothing interactions and ensuring compliance if you’re stopped.

Must Have Documents Before You Rent

• 1. Valid US Driver’s License

  • Must be current, unexpired, and in good condition.

  • Should be held for at least one year before the rental date.

• 2. International Driving License (IDL)

  • Why it matters: Official translation of your US license into Spanish and other languages and often mandatory for rental car pickup and traffic stops.

• 3. Passport and Visa

  • Carry your passport with the tourist stamp to prove legal entry.

  • Ensure your visa (if required) covers the entire driving period.

• 4. Proof of Insurance and Rental Agreement

  • Basic third party liability insurance is mandatory in Peru.

  • Rental companies may offer upgrades (collision damage waiver, theft protection).

Rental Agency Requirements

• Minimum Age and Experience

  • Most companies require drivers to be 23–25 years old with at least one year of driving experience.
    

• Credit Card and Deposit

  • Hold placed on a major credit card (Visa, MasterCard).

  • Deposit amount varies; typically $200–$500 USD.

• Insurance Options

  • Basic Coverage: Often included but may carry a high deductible.
    

• Upgrades:

  • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW).

  • Theft Protection.

  • Third Party Liability (mandatory).

Key Driving Laws and Road Regulations in Peru

• 1. Driving Side and Seat Belts

  • Drive on the right side of the road.

  • Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants.

• 2. Speed Limits

  • Urban areas: 50–60 km/h (31–37 mph).

  • Rural roads: 90 km/h (56 mph).

  • Highways: 100 km/h (62 mph).

• 3. Child Seats and Helmets

  • Children under 12 must use appropriate car seats.

  • Motorcycle helmets are mandatory for riders and passengers.

• 4. Toll Roads and Customs Vouchers

  • Numerous tolls on highways; keep small bills handy.

  • Foreign owned vehicles may need to display a customs duty payment voucher.
    

Practical Tips for Driving in Peru

• Road Conditions

  • Mountains and Highlands: Narrow, winding roads; watch for fog.

  • Jungle Roads: Can be poorly maintained; SUVs or 4×4 vehicles recommended .

• Weather and Best Seasons

  • Dry season (May–September) offers clearer skies for mountain routes.

  • Rainy season (November–April) may bring landslides and road closures.
    

• Language and Signage

  • Spanish is predominant; learn key phrases (e.g., "¿Dónde está la Policía de Turismo?").

  • Traffic signs follow international symbols but watch for hand painted local warnings.

• Dealing with Checkpoints

  • Police/military checkpoints common near borders and highways.

  • Officers cannot confiscate your documents; always ask for a written ticket if fined.
    

• Safety Precautions

  • Avoid driving at night, especially in rural areas.

  • Keep doors locked, valuables out of sight.

  • Have emergency numbers saved (e.g., police: 105).

After 183 Days: Exchanging Your License

• When Required:

  • If you stay beyond six months (183 days), Peruvian law requires a local driver’s license.

• Exchange Process:

  • Apostille/Legalization: Authenticate your US license.

  • Written Exam: Multiple choice test on road rules.

  • Driving Test: Practical on road evaluation.

  • Medical Exam: Basic vision and reflex tests.

Tip: For short‑term tourists, it’s almost always easier to stick with your International Driving License rather than exchange your license.

How to Obtain an IDL

Applying for an International Driver's License (IDL) is a straightforward process that allows you to legally drive in foreign countries. Here's how you can obtain one:

• Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining an International Driver's License. Requirements may but the most important one is that you must have your national or local driver's license issued by your county or state of origin, and it should be valid.

• Complete Application: Obtain the necessary application form from following the next link: https://www.international-license.com/pages/buy-the-international-drivers-license

• Pay Fees: Pay the required fees for processing your IDL application. Fees may vary depending on the issuing authority and processing time.

• Submit Application: Submit your completed application form along with any supporting documents following their specific instructions.

• Receive IDL: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your International Driver's License.

Remember to carry both your international driving permit and your original driver's license whenever you're behind the wheel. Double-check that your details match those on your valid driver's license to avoid any discrepancies. Once you have completed the application form and gathered all the necessary documents, submit them to the licensing authority along with any applicable fees.

BUY NOW!

Cost of an International Driver's License

The costs of obtaining an International Driver's License are the following:

1 YEAR VALIDITY: USD 39,99
2 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 54,99
3 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 69,99

USA SHIPPING
USPS 6-10 DAYS: FREE
EXPRESS 3-4 DAYS : USD 15
OVERNIGHT 2-3 DAYS: USD 35

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
EXPRESS INTERNATIONAL 4-8 DAYS : USD 29.99

As of 2025

Before applying for an IDL, it's essential to check the fee schedule on the official website https://www.international-license.com/pages/pricing-for-the-international-drivers-document

Conclusion

• Driving in Peru with a US license is entirely feasible just be prepared:

  • Hold a valid US license plus an International Driving License.

• • Meet rental agency age, experience, and insurance requirements.

  • Obey Peruvian traffic laws: speed  and seat belts.

  • Navigate road conditions and checkpoints with confidence.
    

Pack your documents, brush up on a few Spanish phrases, and then hit the open road from colonial Cusco to coastal Paracas, the journey will be unforgettable!.