Telepass

Similar to many stateside electronic toll collection, Telepass is Italy's version. Italian toll booths are challenging to navigate. With Telepass there is no need to stop at toll booths. It can also be used for parking lots like Venice Marco Polo, and certain ZTL (restricted traffic zones) in some Italian cities. Charges are automatically deducted from your linked account or credit card, and detailed statements make tracking expenses easier. Depending on what your plan, there may be a nominal monthly fee.

Telepass application can be done in person or completed online or at an authorized distribution point, see the locations on their website. Once picked up, the device needs to be activated either online or at the distribution point. Activation typically involves linking it to your bank account or credit card.

Allied Forces Italy Driver's Licenses are only valid in Italy, see the options for these at the SETAF website. Military members stationed in Italy with a valid AFI and stateside license can apply for an Italian Driver's License, see link below.

Parking Apps

Finding a parking ticket machine, in the dark, in the rain only to discover it's out of order can be testing. However, with a parking app, one that is widely used in Italy, comes convenience and takes the guessing out of parking. You only pay for the time you park, plus a small fee. If you are underway and the parking is about to expire, you can easily add time via the app on the fly without the stress of having to go back and add money.

Italian Driver's Licenses

For U.S. citizens becoming residents of Italy, it's crucial to understand that there is no bilateral agreement for the direct conversion of driver's licenses. Your U.S. driver's license is only valid for a maximum of one year after becoming an official resident of Italy. After this period, you must obtain an Italian license, which requires passing both the written and practical driving exams in Italian.

European Countries with Bilateral Agreements

• Albania

• Algeria

• Andorra

• Great Britain and Northern Ireland

• Kosovo

• Lebanon

• Moldova

• North Macedonia

• Serbia

• Switzerland

• Turkey

• Ukraine

North and South American Countries with Bilateral Agreements

• Argentina

• Brazil

• Chile

• El Salvador

• Peru

• Uruguay

A Better Way to Fly to the U.S.? Customs and Border Control at Dublin Airport

Leisure air travel through Dublin Airport can offer a smoother and more convenient experience when flying to the U.S. The Dublin Airport allows travelers to complete U.S. INS processing before boarding, meaning you can skip long customs lines and walk straight out of the airport upon arrival in the U.S. The airport also has an app to avoid their lines similar to TSA Precheck called Mobile Passport Center (MPC), see the link below.

The manageable lines in Dublin, combined with a shorter flight time to the East Coast, make it an attractive option. Aer Lingus, Ireland's national airline, is renowned for its friendly and professional crews, competitive pricing and ensuring a pleasant journey and has a partnership with a number of U.S. carriers.

In contrast, connecting through Frankfurt International Airport often involves unpredictable delays, unfriendly service, and a reputation as one of Europe’s least traveler-friendly hubs. Opting for Dublin could save time and hassle while providing a better overall travel experience.

Did you know? Airplane foot hammocks are inexpensive, take little space and are an amazing relief on your legs and on long flights. It's like upgrading to extra legroom.

Navigating Italy with TrenItalia

Besides traveling by car to new locations and other cities, TrenItalia has some great connections from Sacile or Pordenone. On the fastest trains, see below, Milan and Florence can be reached in a little over three hours. Trenitalia is Italy’s primary train operator, is a convenient, clean and efficient way to travel without the hassle of parking and driving.

What Is Trenitalia?

Trenitalia is Italy’s national railway company, connecting cities, towns, and regions across the country. It operates a variety of trains:

• Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Frecciabianca: High-speed trains for long-distance travel between major cities like Venice, Rome, Florence, and Milan.

• Intercity: Slower, long-distance trains stopping at medium-sized cities.

• Regionale: Local trains that connect smaller towns and villages, perfect for getting around the Friuli Venezia Giulia region.

Using the TrenItalia App

The Trenitalia app is a traveler’s best friend or you can simply use a web browser. Here’s what it offers:

1. Search and Book Tickets: Find train schedules and book tickets for your trip.

2. Digital Tickets: Tickets purchased on the app are stored digitally—just show the QR code to the conductor.

3. Real-Time Updates: Check for delays or platform changes.

4. Integrated Payment Options: Pay securely using credit cards, PayPal, or other methods.