Though people know that translating their driver’s license can improve their travel experience in foreign lands, they often have several queries regarding the translation of driver’s licenses. This blog covers how translation of Driver’s License can improve your travel experience.
Do You Need A Driver’s License In A Foreign Land?
It is one of the most frequently asked questions of people considering travelling abroad. Of course, you need a driver’s license only if you are willing to drive in a foreign land.
Several people often apply for an International Driver’s license besides their local driver’s permit. The reason behind availing it is not to face any hassle on the road by the foreign traffic police during their driving. Also, it can be people’s official documents when they visit abroad.
Is It Necessary To Translate The Driver’s License?
People often wonder if it is necessary to translate a foreign driver’s license. Yes, it is too essential to translate a foreign driver’s licence into Australian English by a NAATI translator for a hassle-free travel experience.
For example— You are a citizen of Japan and have a local driver’s license, which is in Japanese. There will be no issue when you use it in your country. But, when you travel to a foreign land such as Australia or another nation with your driving license, you might face issues.
This is because Australian authorities do not speak Japanese, so they will not accept your foreign driver’s licence.
How To Translate A Foreign Driver’s License?
After knowing the need for translation, people often get concerned and search for the best translation agency or service to translate their driver’s licences. Though you might come across several reputed agencies, AustralianTranslationServices is a reputed online certified translation service provider with a 48-hour delivery deadline and guaranteed government acceptance.
It is worth mentioning that we have more than 500 translators with NAATI certification.
So, feel free to contact us to translate the driver’s license into English if you speak a foreign language.
What Is NAATI And What Is Its Need?
NAATI stands for the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters Ltd. It is a certification in Australia for translators. Certified translators maintain the translation standards set by the Australian authorities and comply with the regulations. They provide an accurate and precise translation.
Some benefits of hiring such accredited translators are as follows:
- When the translators get certified with the NAATI, it simply implies that their translation services will be authentic. Here, people can be sure of getting genuine documents of their local driving license.
- Several Govt authorities often prefer the NAATI accredited documents from foreign people. It ensures that the translation is accurate and replicates the original document.
Thus, if someone wants to translate documents that will be recognised all over Australia, then they should always consider hiring professional NAATI translators from a reputed agency.
What Must Foreigners Know Before Driving In Australia?
- You can only drive in Australia with your licence if it is valid and current.
- You must carry certified translations or an International Driving Permit if you have a foreign language driving licence.
- Australians drive on the left side. If you are not accustomed to driving on the left, you must be close to the centre of the road.
- You must be on the left unless you overtake and overtake from the right.
- The residential areas have a speed limit of 50 km/h, and school areas 40 km/h. For dual carriageways, the speed limit is max 110km/h.
- All passengers must wear seat belts. Also, using mobile phones is illegal.
What Happens If I Drive Without A Translated Driver’s License In Australia?
- We might have to deal with Traffic Violations and Fines. In NSW, the fine exceeds AUD 600.
- Australian government authorities may even impound your vehicle if you violate their warnings repeatedly.
- You might lose your driving permits. Things can go up to license suspension or cancellation.
- Authorities can even escalate things to criminal charges if they feel you are not following the regulations.
- Insurance companies often reject claims if your licence is not translated, as they cannot verify information in a foreign language.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive in Australia with a temporary visa (e.g., student or work visa)?
Yes. In most Australian states, you can drive with a temporary visa. Thus, you can use a student or work visa. However, there can be some conditions applied.
Do I need to carry both my original license and the translated version?
Yes. If you have a foreign language driver’s licence, you must carry both the original and translated version.
How long is an international driving license valid in Australia?
An International Driving Permit in Australia is valid for a year. Also, you need to carry your original driver’s licence from your native country.
How long is a translated driver’s license valid in Australia?
The validity of the translated licence in Australia depends on the visa status and the state of the territory.
For instance:
In NSW, if you arrive there before or on July 1, 2023, and wish to reside for 6 months, you must get a temporary NSW driver’s licence for 6 months.
Does Australia accept international driver’s licenses?
You can only drive in Australia with your overseas driver’s license if you don’t hold a permanent visa. If your license is not in English, you need to carry an IDP or a formal English translation of your license.
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