What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your New York driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid New York license, and you must carry both together when you drive abroad. The IDP tells police and rental car companies in other countries that your New York license is real and current.

You can get an IDP only through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). The New York Department of Motor Vehicles does not issue them. The permit costs around $20 and is valid for one or three years, depending on which you choose. You do not need to pass any test or prove you have driven before — the IDP is purely a translation document.

Key Takeaways

  • Only AAA and AATA issue International Driving Permits in the United States; the New York DMV does not.
  • You must bring your valid New York driver's license and a passport or government-issued photo ID to get an IDP in person.
  • AAA charges around $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit, and you can get one the same day you explore.
  • Some AAA branches accept mail-in requests, though you will need to include a recent passport-style photo and copies of your documents.
  • An IDP is only valid when carried together with your actual New York driver's license; it does not replace it.

Getting an IDP Through AAA

The fastest way to get an International Driving Permit is to visit a local AAA office in person. You will need to bring your valid New York driver's license and a passport or other government-issued photo ID. You will also need one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches). AAA staff will complete the process on the spot, and you can walk out with the permit the same day in most cases.

AAA has branches throughout New York, including in New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse. You can find the nearest office and its hours on the AAA website. If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP — membership is not required. The cost is the same whether you are a member or not.

If you prefer not to visit in person, some AAA branches accept mail-in requests. You will need to send a completed process form, a copy of your driver's license, a copy of your passport or ID, and a passport-style photo. Mail processing takes longer than in-person service — usually one to two weeks — so plan ahead if you are leaving soon.

Getting an IDP Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance is the second organization authorized to issue IDPs. AATA operates primarily by mail, so you cannot walk in to an office. To request an IDP through AATA, you fill out an process form on their website, print it, and mail it along with copies of your driver's license and passport or ID, plus a passport-style photo.

AATA processing typically takes two to three weeks. The cost is similar to AAA — around $20 for a one-year permit. AATA is a good option if you do not have an AAA office nearby or prefer to handle everything by mail, but the longer processing time means you should plan further ahead than you would with an in-person AAA visit.

What Documents You Need

Before you go to AAA or prepare a mailed request to AATA, gather these items:

  • Your valid New York driver's license (not expired)
  • A passport or government-issued photo ID (such as a state ID card or military ID)
  • One passport-style photo, 2 by 2 inches (color or black and white)
  • Payment (cash, check, or card, depending on the AAA branch or AATA's current methods)

If you are explore by mail, you will need to provide copies of your license and ID rather than the originals. Do not send originals through the mail. Make clear, readable copies on a standard copier.

Your New York driver's license must be current and not expired. If your license has expired or is about to expire, you should renew it through the New York DMV before you get an IDP. An IDP based on an expired license will not be accepted in most countries.

How Long an IDP Lasts and When to Renew

When you get an IDP, you choose whether you want it valid for one year or three years. A one-year permit costs less (around $20) but requires you to get a new one if you travel internationally again after it expires. A three-year permit costs more (around $30) but covers multiple trips over a longer period.

An IDP expires on the date printed on the document itself. You cannot renew an IDP — you have to get a new one. If your IDP is about to expire and you are planning another international trip, go back to AAA or AATA and request a new one. The process is the same as the first time.

Your IDP is only valid as long as your New York driver's license is also valid. If your license expires, your IDP becomes useless even if the IDP itself has not reached its expiration date. When you renew your New York license, you will need to get a new IDP as well.

What Happens at the Border and When Driving Abroad

When you travel internationally, carry both your New York driver's license and your IDP together at all times. If you are stopped by police or asked to show your license at a rental car counter, present both documents. The IDP is the translation; your actual license is the proof that you are licensed to drive.

Some countries require an IDP by law before you can rent a car or drive. Others do not require it but accept it as helpful proof that your license is legitimate. Before you travel, check the specific requirements for the country or countries you plan to visit. Your rental car company can tell you what they need, or you can contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting.

An IDP does not give you permission to drive in another country if you are not already allowed to. It does not override visa requirements, age restrictions, or local driving laws. It is only a translation of your existing New York license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am renting a car in Canada or Mexico?

Requirements vary by rental company and country. Canada does not legally require an IDP, but some rental companies request one. Mexico does not require an IDP for most visitors, but it is recommended. Contact your rental company before you travel to find out what they need. Having an IDP does not hurt and can speed up the rental process.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my New York license is suspended or revoked?

No. Your license must be valid and current. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored or renewed. Resolve any issues with your New York license through the DMV first.

What if I lose my IDP while I am traveling?

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They may be able to issue a replacement or provide a letter confirming your license status. You can also continue driving with just your New York license in many situations, though some rental companies or police may be less familiar with it without the translation.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document only. An international license does not exist in the United States. Some countries issue their own international licenses, but the U.S. system uses the IDP as the standard translation tool for American drivers traveling abroad.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

AAA and AATA both charge around $20 for a one-year permit and around $30 for a three-year permit. Prices may vary slightly by location or change over time. Call your local AAA branch or check AATA's website for current pricing before you visit or mail in your request.