Due to a lapse in appropriations, the IMCOM Enterprise Web sites will only be updated with life, health, and safety information until further notice.
Driving and International Travel Requirements
Traveling internationally can be confusing and the rules can vary whether you are travelling officially or for personal reasons. DOD maintains a website called the Electronic Foreign Clearance Guide which includes the travel regulations and restrictions for virtually every country around the world. Readers are encouraged to visit this website periodically to view new updates.
International Licenses
DoD employees assigned to Caserma Ederle and their dependents are eligible for a SETAF license which, in conjunction with your U.S. license, entitles you to drive in Italy. For information on getting a SETAF license, visit our Driver’s Testing info page.
The SETAF license is valid ONLY in NATO countries (this does not include Switzerland or Austria). Also, the rules can vary based on official or unofficial travel and whether you are civilian or military. Although some countries will accept your SETAF license or even a U.S. license, you are strongly encouraged to get an international driving permit (IDPs). IDPs are honored in more than 150 countries outside the U.S.
For more information on applying for an international license, see International Licenses
Road Regulations
The road signs and rules are similar in most European countries, but you should always review the laws before driving in that country. Small differences in right of way or other laws can mean the difference between driving safely and getting into an accident.
In Italy, if you use the Autostrada, you pay-as-you-go with a system of toll booths. Some countries use a Vignette. The Vignette is a sticker travelers in that country must purchase and place on the windshield to be able to use the Autostrada system. After crossing the border, you will see signs indicating that a vignette is needed. These can usually be purchased near the borders at gas stations, tobacco shops, border crossings and other locations. Don’t drive without one – the fines are heavy.
Entry Requirements
When crossing the border into European Union countries, you will not typically go through a border checkpoint. Regardless, you should always bring your passport and visa or soggiorno (Italian resident permit) with you while traveling. Some countries will not accept military ID cards in lieu of a passport. Keep in mind that Switzerland and several of the Balkan countries are not in the European Union. Requirements can vary based on whether you are traveling officially or for personal reasons and whether you are a service member or civilian.