Passports, Driver's Lisences and Visas

I got my international drivers permit yesterday..and 2 Tilley hats to protect me from sun, rain and what ever else comes along.  One more thing to strike off the "to do" list.
Tried to find out at CAA if I need a visa for Italy or not but they weren't sure either.  The information on websites about visas is ambiguous at best.  It is very clear that a visitor for less than 90 days does not need a visa, but nothing is said about visiting for longer than 90 days, unless you are working in Italy or a student.  I suppose I will just have to phone the Italian consulate and hope someone there speaks English.
On another note...why does a passport need to be valid for at least 6 months past the end of your trip?  Isn't a passport valid until it expires?  This really is not logical...especially considering the fact that we have to pay for a passport.  I wonder if you can be issued a new or renewed passport 6 months before the old one expires, or if you have to wait for the expiry date of the first one before a new one is issued.  Seems as if this  policy just puts more money in the hands of the government.  If everyone has to renew their passport earlier it means it is really only valid for 4 1/2 years not 5 years. Thats just dumb.
Now I am curious...something else to check out!