Driving Licence Nightmare

Two weeks ago, I wanted to exchange my Turkish Driving Licence to a Czech (or European) one and i learned that it's impossible to exchange Turkish Driving Licence to a Czech one.

It wasn't surprising for me. If you are Turk, nearly all the documents given you by your government is not valid in abroad. I am used to it. But this time there is something more silly then this fact happen!

The officers told me that if i want to drive in Czech Republic i need to have a "International Driving Permit" or i have to attend a driving course in here. (Ok. here is normal, it's their right)

The funny thing is, if you are a US Citizen and if you want to take this International Driving Permit (IDP), it costs you 50$ per year (shipping incl.). You even don't need to go USA!. They are sending you this permit by mail in 1 week.

If you are a Turkish citizen and if you want to take a IDP, you should go to a organization by yourself (sending the documents by mail not possible) called "Turkish Touring and Automobile Institution" and you should pay 200$ per year.

Maybe it's my mistake sorry but, when we overtook USA in GDP per capita? How it's possible that same permit is 50$ in USA but 200$ in Turkey.

Thank you Turkey. For every kind of pain that you are giving to me everyday.