AAA warns of getting driver's licenses over the Internet

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ AAA Oklahoma warned of an increase in Internet sites offering international driver's licenses for American citizens to use in the United States. <br><br>Web sites are offering

Monday, March 11th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ AAA Oklahoma warned of an increase in Internet sites offering international driver's licenses for American citizens to use in the United States.

Web sites are offering such licenses to motorists apparently seeking to evade state motor vehicle laws, AAA Oklahoma officials said. The licenses are not legal driving permits for American citizens in this country.

``What is deeply troubling are come-ons that entice consumers with the promise that an international license can be used if their license has been suspended or revoked or can be used to avoid driver's education,'' said Pat Doherty, president and chief executive officer of AAA Oklahoma. ``This is complete nonsense.''

Many of the Internet offerings, which can cost up to $300 for a $10 license, do not refer to the United States by name, but the sites make it appear as if motorists in their own country can use an international license, Doherty said.

``AAA Oklahoma is the only organization in Oklahoma authorized by the U.S. State Department to sell International Driving Permits and Inter-American Driving Permits in the U.S.,'' Doherty said.

``These permits are simply intended as a translation of a motorist's state driver's license for use when traveling outside of the United States. And international law is very clear about using an international permit in lieu of a driver's license. You can't do it, period.''

Anyone interested in obtaining one of the driving permits can apply at a AAA Oklahoma office or mail an application with a copy of their driver's license to buy a permit.