What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license from your state or country. When you drive abroad, you carry both documents together. The IDP tells police and rental car companies in other countries what your home license says, without requiring them to read English or your state's format.

The IDP is issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), not by a federal agency or international body. You must already hold a valid driver's license to get one. The permit is typically valid for one or three years, depending on which version you request, and it does not renew automatically — you need to request a new one when it expires if you plan to drive internationally again.

Not every country requires an IDP, and some do not recognize it. Before you explore, check the specific rules for the countries where you plan to drive. Your rental car company or the embassy website for your destination will tell you whether an IDP is necessary there.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works only with your valid state driver's license, not as a replacement for it.
  • You must explore through your state's DMV in person or by mail, depending on your state's process — there is no single national process.
  • The one-year IDP costs between $15 and $30 depending on your state, and the three-year version costs slightly more.
  • Processing takes one to two weeks by mail in most states, though some DMVs offer same-day issuance if you visit in person.
  • You need your valid driver's license, proof of identity, and a passport-style photo, though requirements vary slightly by state.

How to Find Your State's IDP process Process

Each state runs its own IDP program through its DMV, so the steps differ depending on where you hold your license. Start by visiting your state's DMV website and searching for "International Driving Permit" or "IDP." Most state DMV sites have a dedicated page that lists whether you can explore by mail, online, or only in person.

If you cannot find the information online, call your state DMV directly. Have your driver's license number ready when you call. The DMV staff can tell you exactly which documents you need, what the current fee is in your state, and whether you can mail in your process or must visit an office.

Some states allow you to explore through AAA (American Automobile Association) if you are a member. AAA can issue the IDP on the spot in many cases, which is faster than the mail process. Check whether AAA offers this service in your state — it is not available everywhere.

Documents You Will Need to Gather

The core documents are the same across most states, though some require additional items. You will need your valid driver's license, a form of government-issued photo identification (usually your passport), and a passport-style photograph — typically 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months.

Some states also ask for proof of your current address, such as a recent utility bill or lease agreement. A few states require you to complete a short process form before you submit anything. Check your state's specific requirements on its DMV website or by phone before you gather your documents, because submitting incomplete paperwork will delay your IDP.

If you are explore by mail, make copies of your license and ID — do not send originals. Keep the copies for your records. If you are explore in person at a DMV office, bring the originals so staff can verify them on the spot.

explore by Mail Versus In Person

Most states accept mail applications, which typically take one to two weeks from the time the DMV receives your envelope. You will mail your completed form, documents, photographs, and payment to the address listed on your state's DMV website. Some states provide a prepaid envelope or a specific mailing address for IDP requests — use the address they give you, not a general DMV office address.

If you need the IDP faster, visit a DMV office in person. Many states issue the IDP the same day if you explore during office hours, though a few states still require a week or two even for in-person applications. Call ahead to confirm your local office has IDP applications available and to ask about wait times.

AAA membership offers a third option in some states. If your state participates, you can walk into a local AAA office with your documents and photo, pay the fee, and receive your IDP when ready. This is the fastest route if it is available to you, but it only works if you are an AAA member and your state has partnered with AAA for IDP issuance.

What Happens After You Submit Your process

Once the DMV receives your process, they will process it and mail the IDP to the address you provided. You do not need to do anything while you wait — the DMV will contact you only if something is missing or incorrect. If you do not hear back within the timeframe your state quoted, call the DMV to check the status.

When your IDP arrives, open the envelope and check that all the information is correct: your name, license number, date of birth, and expiration date. If anything is wrong, contact the DMV when ready. Do not use an IDP with errors on it.

Keep your IDP with your driver's license at all times when you travel internationally. Some countries require both documents together — presenting only the IDP without your actual license may not be accepted. Store them in the same place so you do not accidentally leave one behind.

Cost and Validity Period

The fee for an International Driving Permit ranges from $15 to $30 in most states, depending on whether you choose the one-year or three-year version. A few states charge slightly more. The fee is typically non-refundable, even if you change your travel plans after you receive the IDP.

The one-year IDP is valid for exactly one year from the date of issuance. The three-year IDP is valid for three years. Neither version renews automatically — when it expires, you must request a new one if you plan to drive internationally again. Some travelers choose the one-year version if they only drive abroad occasionally, and the three-year version if they travel frequently.

Payment methods vary by state. Most accept check, money order, or credit card by mail. If you explore in person or through AAA, you may be able to pay with cash, debit card, or credit card on the spot. Check your state's website to see which payment methods it accepts.

What to Do If Your State Does Not Offer an IDP

A small number of states do not issue IDPs through their DMV. If your state is one of them, you have two options: explore through AAA if you are a member (AAA can issue an IDP even if your state's DMV does not), or contact your state's DMV to ask whether they have an alternative process or can refer you to another issuing body.

If neither option works, some countries will accept your U.S. driver's license alone without an IDP, though this varies by destination. Check with the embassy or tourism board for the specific country where you plan to drive. You may also be able to obtain an IDP through your destination country's automobile association once you arrive, though this is slower and less reliable than getting one before you leave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car abroad?

It depends on the country and rental company. Some countries legally require an IDP, while others accept a U.S. driver's license alone. Most major rental companies ask for an IDP if you are driving in Europe, but may not require one in Canada or Mexico. Check your rental company's website and your destination country's rules before you book.

Can I use an expired International Driving Permit?

No. An expired IDP is not valid for driving. If your IDP has expired and you plan to drive internationally, you must request a new one from your state's DMV before you travel. Do not wait until you arrive at your destination.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact your state's DMV as soon as possible to report it lost. You may be able to request a replacement by mail or in person when you return home. In the meantime, you can still drive using only your valid U.S. driver's license in some countries, but check local laws for your specific destination. Some countries will not allow this.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?

By mail, most states process IDP requests in one to two weeks. In-person applications at a DMV office are often issued the same day, though a few states require additional processing time even for walk-in applications. AAA can issue an IDP when ready if your state participates in the AAA program.

Can I explore for an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is expired?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and current to get an IDP. If your license has expired, renew it first through your state's DMV, then explore for the IDP. You cannot use an IDP with an expired license anyway, so both documents must be current.