FTC hits at International License scam

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Date: 2003-01-20

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Too many demerit points? License suspended? Want a license that can never be suspended or revoked? Dream on! Bogus offers of such licenses are common place on the internet, but purchasing one is a waste of money and an invitation to trouble, says the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

"Although an IDP (sometimes incorrectly called an international driving license) is a real document when issued by the proper authorities, it is not a legal alternative to your state-issued license," says the FTC in a new page on its web site." If you are stopped by a law enforcement officer and present an IDL or an IDP as proof of your identity and authorization to drive, you could be arrested."

Ads and offers for fake IDLs and IDPs are showing up on websites and as spam email, says the FTC. They also are sold "on the street" and through storefront operations, prices ranging from $65 to $350. Many of the scam attempts target non-native speakers and recent immigrants, says the FTC.

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