It is rare, but it happens. A border officer or police checkpoint confiscates your IDP. Maybe they question its validity, maybe they claim it is not the correct type, or maybe they simply take it as part of a fine process. Here is what to do.
Immediate Steps
Stay calm. Do not argue aggressively with border officials. Ask for a receipt or written confirmation of the confiscation. Note the officer's name or badge number, the location, and the time. Take photos of any documents they provide.
Once your IDP is confiscated, you are technically driving without valid documentation. Do not continue driving until you have a replacement. Use public transport or a taxi until resolved.
Getting a Replacement
Contact your IDP issuer immediately. RoadSeal can issue a digital replacement within hours. Contact your country's embassy or consulate — they may be able to provide a temporary letter confirming your driving status.
Prevention
Carry a certified photocopy of your IDP separately from the original. Some travelers carry two IDPs from different issuers. Keep digital copies on your phone and in cloud storage. If an officer asks to keep your IDP, offer the photocopy instead.
1. Carry certified photocopies of your IDP. 2. Keep digital copies on your phone. 3. Store backups in cloud storage. 4. Offer copies instead of originals when possible. 5. Know RoadSeal's emergency replacement process.