What an international driving permit actually is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your regular driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it does not replace your home license, and you cannot drive on it alone. You must carry both your home license and the IDP together, and the IDP is only valid when paired with the original.

The IDP exists because many countries do not recognize licenses issued elsewhere. When you cross a border, a police officer or rental car company can read your IDP even if they cannot read your home country's license. Most countries accept IDPs for tourists and visitors, though some have their own rules about how long you can drive on one.

The permit is issued by your home country's automobile association or transportation authority — not by the country you are visiting. You get it before you leave, and it typically lasts three years from the date of issue.

Key Takeaways

  • You must obtain an IDP from your home country's automobile association or licensing authority before traveling, not from the destination country.
  • The IDP is a translation document only and must be carried together with your valid home driver's license at all times.
  • Processing time varies by country but typically takes one to four weeks, so you should request yours at least a month before your trip.
  • The cost ranges from $15 to $30 USD depending on your country, and the permit is valid for three years from the issue date.

How to get an IDP in the United States

In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the two authorized organizations that issue IDPs. You do not go through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles — only these two organizations can issue them.

To get an IDP from AAA, you must be a current AAA member. You can visit any AAA office in person with your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches). The fee is $20, and the permit is ready the same day if you explore in person. You can also mail your process to AAA, though this takes longer — typically one to two weeks.

If you are not an AAA member, you can get an IDP from AATA by mail. You send your process form (available on the AATA website), your valid driver's license, a passport or passport card, and a passport photo to their office. The fee is $15, and processing takes about two weeks. You do not need to be a member of any organization to use AATA.

How to get an IDP in Canada

In Canada, the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) issues International Driving Permits. You must visit a CAA office in person with your valid Canadian driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-sized photo. The fee is $25 CAD, and you receive the permit when ready.

Some CAA offices allow you to book an appointment online before you visit, which can save time during busy periods. Check the CAA website for the office nearest you and their current hours.

How to get an IDP in the United Kingdom

In the UK, you can get an International Driving Permit through the Post Office or through the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) by mail. The Post Office route is faster: you visit any Post Office branch with your valid UK photocard license, a passport or passport card, and one passport photo. The fee is £5.50, and you receive the permit on the same day.

If you prefer to explore by mail, you send your process to the DVLA with the same documents. This takes about two weeks. The fee is the same.

How to get an IDP in Australia

In Australia, the National Roads and Motorists' Association (NRMA) and the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) issue International Driving Permits. You can explore in person at an NRMA or AAA office with your valid Australian driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport photo. The fee is $25 AUD, and the permit is issued on the same day.

You can also explore by mail to either organization. Mail applications take about one to two weeks to process.

What to do if your home country is not listed here

Most countries have one official organization that issues IDPs — usually the national automobile association or the transportation ministry. To find yours, search online for "[your country] International Driving Permit" or contact your country's embassy or consulate in your destination country. They can tell you which organization issues IDPs and how to request one.

If you are traveling soon and cannot get an IDP in time, some car rental companies will rent to you on your home license alone, though many require an IDP. Always check with your rental company before you book.

What to bring and what to expect

Nearly every country requires the same documents: a valid driver's license from your home country, a passport or passport card, and one passport-sized photo (usually 2 by 2 inches). Some organizations also ask for a completed process form, which you can read from their website or fill out on arrival.

Processing time ranges from same-day (if you explore in person) to two to four weeks (if you explore by mail). Plan to request your IDP at least one month before your trip. The cost is typically between $15 and $30 USD or the equivalent in your home currency.

Once you receive your IDP, check that all the information is correct — your name, license number, and issue date should match your home license exactly. If there is an error, contact the issuing organization to request a replacement.

How long an IDP is valid and what happens when it expires

An International Driving Permit is valid for three years from the date it is issued. The expiration date is printed on the front of the document. You cannot renew an IDP — when it expires, you must request a new one from the same organization.

If your home country driver's license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. You must have a current, valid home license to use the IDP. If you renew your home license, you can continue using the same IDP as long as it has not yet expired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive on just the international permit without my home license?

No. You must carry both documents together at all times. The IDP is only a translation of your home license and has no legal standing on its own. If you are stopped by police or asked by a rental car company, you must show both the IDP and your original home license.

Do I need an IDP to rent a car in another country?

It depends on the rental company and the country. Many rental companies require an IDP, especially in Europe and Asia. Some will rent to you on your home license alone, but they may charge a higher fee or require additional insurance. Always contact your rental company before you book to find out what documents they need.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact the embassy or consulate of your home country in the country where you are traveling. They can sometimes issue a temporary replacement or provide a letter confirming your license status. Keep a photo or scan of your IDP on your phone as backup.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An international license does not exist as an official document. Some websites offer to sell you an "international license," but these are not recognized by any country and have no legal value. The only official document is the International Driving Permit issued by your home country's automobile association or licensing authority.

How much does an IDP cost?

The cost varies by country. In the United States, AAA charges $20 and AATA charges $15. In Canada, CAA charges $25 CAD. In the UK, the Post Office charges £5.50. In Australia, NRMA and AAA charge $25 AUD. Check with your home country's issuing organization for the exact fee.