Documents needed
All it takes is what’s already in your wallet
- Valid domestic driver’s license
- Passport-style photo
- Valid government-issued ID
- Completed online application
Førerkortet ditt blir oversatt umiddelbart og gyldig i over 150 land. Reis fritt til flere destinasjoner med ett dokument — bruk det i et ubegrenset antall land i gyldighetsperioden.
An International Driving Permit is not officially recognized in this country.
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An International Driving Permit is not officially recognized in this country. Please check local driving regulations.
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American Samoa allows foreign nationals to drive for up to one year from entry with a recognized International Driving Permit alongside their valid domestic license. Issuing authority recognition matters here, confirm yours is accepted before driving.
| Driver type | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist / short-term visitor | Required in most cases | Carry original license at all times |
| Rental car driver | Commonly required | Verify issuing authority with your rental company |
| Long-term foreign resident | Different rules apply | After 1 year, a local license may be needed |
| Mutually recognized license holder | May be exempt | Depends on home country agreement |
Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements and have the following documents ready before you start.
All it takes is what’s already in your wallet
You must meet every condition below
Foreign visitors to American Samoa must have both a valid driver’s license from their home country and an International Driving Permit (International Driving Permit) to drive legally. This dual-document rule applies to all non-American Samoa license holders, including U.S. mainland residents.
📌 Important: Even U.S. citizens with state-issued licenses must carry an International Driving Permit in American Samoa. Licensing rules are set under Title 22, Chapter 02 of American Samoa law.
An International Driving Permit is not a license itself but a multilingual translation booklet of your existing driver’s license. It’s recognized globally under international road traffic treaties.
Key Features:
Legal Framework:
American Samoa requires the 1949 International Driving Permit format and does not issue recognition under Vienna Convention standards.
Travelers often confuse these two destinations. Here’s how they differ:
| Aspect | American Samoa (U.S. Territory) | Independent Samoa |
|---|---|---|
| Political Status | U.S. Territory | Independent Nation |
| International Driving Permit Requirement | Yes, for all non-local licenses | Varies by country |
| Driving Side | Right-hand side | Left-hand side (since 2009) |
| 30-Day Driving Rule | Yes, with International Driving Permit | Different rules |
| Speed Limits | 15 mph (built-up), 25 mph (open road) | Different limits |
Requirements:
| Rule | Requirement | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Belts | Mandatory | Fine |
| Child Seats | <3 yrs old | Fine/court |
| Mobile Phones | Hands-free only | Fine |
| Blood Alcohol Limit | 0.08% | Suspension, fines, jail |
| Speed Limits | 15 mph (urban), 25 mph (rural) | Ticket, points |
| Required Docs | License, International Driving Permit, insurance | Impound/citation |
Road Safety Notes:
Police regularly check documents at:
Non-Compliance Penalties:
Yes, for up to 30 days. For longer stays, you may be required to get a temporary driving permit from the local authorities.
No, it must be issued in your home country.
American Samoa requires the 1949 International Driving Permit format and does not issue recognition under 1968 Vienna Convention standards.
✅ Documents:
✅ Preparation Timeline:
✅ Emergency Contacts:
Driving in American Samoa is straightforward if you prepare correctly. Always carry both your home country license and an International Driving Permit, and remember that after 30 days you’ll need a local OMV permit. By planning ahead, you’ll avoid fines, impoundments, and insurance issues — and instead enjoy exploring Tutuila and the Manuʻa Islands safely and legally.
Bli med tusenvis av fornøyde reisende som stoler på oss for sine internasjonale førerkort
Full refund if not accepted anywhere, plus unlimited free replacements.
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An International Driving Permit is a requirement to drive or rent a car in most foreign countries.