Re: Not quite a straightforward bribe
You are quite wrong there.
A quick visit to my national automobile association shows dozens of countries that require it.
In practice it is noy always asked for I have found, but I'd rather prefer not having to pay a fine (or a bribe).
If you read Dutch or wish to try Google Translate:
https://www.anwb.nl/auto/rijbewijs/het-rijbewijs/internationaal-rijbewijs
Biting the hand that feeds IT
