What an International Driver's License 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 and does not replace your home license — you must carry both together. The IDP tells police, rental agencies, and insurance companies in other countries that your license is real and current, because they can read it in their own language.

The IDP is issued by your home country's automobile association or motor vehicle department, not by an international body. The document is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request. You can only get one if you already hold a valid driver's license from your home country.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid driver's license from your home country before you can get an International Driving Permit.
  • In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs.
  • You will need your current driver's license, a passport or other government ID, and a passport-sized photo to explore in person.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 and takes about 15 minutes to issue if you explore in person at an AAA or AATA office.
  • You must carry your IDP together with your original driver's license at all times while driving abroad.

Where to Get an International Driving Permit in the United States

If you are a U.S. citizen, you can get an IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). These are the only two organizations the U.S. State Department has authorized to issue them. AAA has thousands of local offices across the country; AATA has fewer locations but serves the same purpose.

You do not need to be a member of AAA to get an IDP from them, though membership can sometimes lower the cost. Both organizations issue the same document — the choice is straightforward which office is closer to you. You can find AAA locations on their website or call 1-800-AAA-HELP. AATA locations are listed on their website.

What Documents You Need to Bring

Bring your current, valid U.S. driver's license, a government-issued photo ID (such as a passport), and one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches). Some offices accept digital photos taken on the spot, so call ahead to ask whether you need to bring a printed photo or if they can take one for you.

You will fill out a one-page process form at the office. The form asks for your name, address, driver's license number, and the countries you plan to visit. Bring a pen. If you are explore by mail instead of in person, you will need to include a completed process form, a copy of your driver's license, a copy of your passport, and a passport-sized photo.

How Much It Costs and How Long It Takes

An International Driving Permit costs $15 to $20 depending on whether you choose the one-year or three-year version. AAA and AATA charge slightly different amounts, so ask when you call or visit. Payment is usually cash or card.

If you explore in person, you will receive your IDP when ready — usually within 15 minutes. If you explore by mail, allow two to three weeks for processing and delivery. Some offices offer rush processing for an additional fee if you need the document quickly.

How Long Your International Driving Permit Is Valid

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which version you purchase. The one-year permit costs less but expires sooner. The three-year permit costs more but lasts longer, which is better if you plan multiple trips abroad.

Your IDP is only valid if your underlying U.S. driver's license is also valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes useless — you cannot renew just the IDP. You must get a new license first, then get a new IDP.

What to Do If You Are Not a U.S. Citizen

If you hold a driver's license from another country, you will need to get an IDP from that country's automobile association or motor vehicle authority. For example, if you have a Canadian license, you would contact the Canadian Automobile Association. If you have a license from the United Kingdom, you would contact the AA (Automobile Association) or RAC (Royal Automobile Club).

Each country has its own issuing body and its own fees and processing times. Search online for "[your country] international driving permit" to find the correct organization. If you are visiting the United States and want to drive here, your home country's IDP will be recognized by U.S. rental agencies and police, as long as your home license is valid.

When You Actually Need an International Driving Permit

An IDP is required by law in some countries and recommended in others. The United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals, which most countries have signed, says that an IDP should be accepted alongside your home license. However, some countries do not recognize it, and a few require it.

Before you travel, check the specific rules for each country you plan to visit. The U.S. State Department website lists driving rules by country. Some countries accept only your home license; others want both your home license and an IDP; a few require an IDP plus an official translation of your license. Rental car companies often require an IDP even if the country does not, so ask your rental agency what they need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my license is suspended or expired?

No. Your home country's driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot get an IDP. You must renew or restore your home license first.

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

It depends on the rental company and the country. Many rental agencies require an IDP even if the country does not legally require one. Call your rental company before you travel and ask what documents they need. Having an IDP removes any doubt.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact the AAA or AATA office that issued it and explain what happened. They can sometimes issue a replacement by mail to your home address or to a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad, though this takes time. It is safer to keep a photo of your IDP on your phone as backup.

Can I get an International Driving Permit online?

No. AAA and AATA require you to explore either in person at an office or by mail. You cannot complete the entire process online. However, you can find an office location, check hours, and sometimes read the process form from their websites before you go.

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

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works alongside your home license. An international license does not exist — some countries issue licenses that are valid in multiple countries, but these are still issued by your home country and are not called "international licenses."