Whether an au pair can drive in their host country or not depends on the country they are au pairing in and their nationality. Many au pairs who have a driver’s license in their home country can drive for 6 months to a year as an au pair. Typically, they need to get an international designation or translation before departing for their au pair journey. In some cases, au pairs may need to retest in their host country in order to continue driving.
The guidelines for using your foreign driver’s license in each country are specific and strict, so it is important to check the specific country rules from where you will be au pairing to ensure you are following the regulations with driving.
Below you will find a table about driver’s licenses for au pairs in different countries.
Having an au pair who has a driver’s license can be a great benefit to some host families, especially those in countries where public transportation is less accessible like the United States. Of course, it is up to the discretion of each host family whether or not they would like the au pair to drive, but in some cases, it is necessary in her responsibilities.
It is best for the au pair to have previous driving experience in her home country with a clean driving record. All safe driving measures should be taken into account such as properly installed car seats, no cell phone use while driving, vehicle registration with them at all times, and accident insurance through a reputable insurance company.
Prior to starting the au pair program, the au pair should go to the driver’s license center in their home country to obtain an international designation on their home country license. Depending on the country of origin, this may also need to be translated into acceptable languages in their host country. It is possible they will need to redo the written test and actual driving test to confirm the au pairs driving skills before taking on the road in a new country with children.
In case they are questioned, then the au pair has all the necessary documents with them to prove their eligibility to drive in their host country and ensure they are complying with all of the traffic laws.
