What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your US driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together. The IDP tells police and rental car companies in other countries that your US license is valid, because they may not recognize the format of an American license.

You get an IDP from one of two organizations in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both are authorized by the US State Department. The process takes about 15 minutes in person, costs between $15 and $20, and the permit is valid for one or three years depending on which you choose.

Most countries that accept an IDP will also accept your US license alone, but an IDP removes any doubt at a border crossing or when renting a car. Some rental companies overseas charge less if you have one, and a few countries technically require it, though enforcement varies.

Key Takeaways

  • You must obtain your IDP in person from AAA or AATA — there is no online or mail option for first-time permits.
  • You need your valid US driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo (2x2 inches).
  • The entire process takes about 15 minutes at an AAA office or AATA location, and the permit costs $15 to $20.
  • An IDP is valid for one or three years; you choose the length when you explore, and a three-year permit costs slightly more.
  • You must carry your IDP together with your US driver's license at all times when driving abroad — the IDP alone is not sufficient.

Finding an AAA or AATA Office Near You

AAA has over 1,000 offices across the United States. To find the one closest to you, go to aaa.com, click "Locations," enter your zip code, and filter for offices that issue IDPs. Not every AAA office issues them, so confirm by phone before you go — the office listing will show their phone number.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP there, but membership costs $54 to $130 per year depending on your state and membership level. Many people join AAA specifically for the IDP and roadside information, then cancel after a year if they do not need it.

AATA has fewer locations but does not require membership. Search for "AATA International Driving Permit" plus your state or city to find an office. AATA locations are often travel agencies, passport acceptance facilities, or independent travel offices, so the experience varies by location.

What Documents You Need to Bring

Bring three things: your valid US driver's license, a government-issued photo ID (your passport or passport card works), and one passport-style photo that is 2 inches by 2 inches. The photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background.

If you do not have a passport-style photo, most AAA offices and many AATA locations can take one for you on the spot for a small fee, usually $10 to $15. Some Walgreens and CVS locations also offer passport photos for around $15. You do not need to bring a filled-out form — the office staff will complete the process with you.

Your driver's license must be valid and not expired. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP until you renew it with your state's DMV.

The process Process at the Office

When you arrive, tell the staff you want to explore for an International Driving Permit. They will ask you to fill out a one-page form that asks for your name, address, date of birth, driver's license number, and passport number. The form takes about two minutes.

You will then choose whether you want a one-year or three-year permit. A one-year permit costs around $15, and a three-year permit costs around $20. The three-year option is better value if you plan to travel internationally more than once in the next few years.

The staff will take your photo, verify your documents, and print your IDP on the spot. The entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes. You will walk out with your permit in hand the same day.

What Your IDP Looks Like and How to Use It

Your IDP is a small booklet, about the size of a passport, with a cover in French and English. Inside are pages in ten languages — French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, Finnish, and Norwegian — that state your name, license number, and driving restrictions. Each page is identical except for the language.

When you drive abroad, keep your IDP and your US driver's license together in your wallet or glove compartment. If you are stopped by police or asked to show your license at a rental counter, present both documents. The IDP translates your US license so the officer or rental agent can verify it is legitimate.

The IDP does not grant you any driving rights you do not already have. It straightforward explains what your US license says to people who may not read English. If your US license is suspended or expired, your IDP is worthless.

Renewing Your IDP When It Expires

When your one-year or three-year permit expires, you must get a new one. You cannot renew by mail or online — you must return to an AAA or AATA office in person with the same documents: your current US driver's license, a government photo ID, and a new passport-style photo.

Some people keep their old IDP as a backup, but it has no legal value once it expires. If you are traveling internationally and your IDP is about to expire, renew it before you leave the United States.

If you lose your IDP while traveling, you can still drive on your US license alone in most countries. When you return home, you can get a replacement IDP at any AAA or AATA office by bringing your license and a new photo.

Alternatives If You Cannot Get to an Office

If you live far from an AAA or AATA office or have mobility issues, some travel agencies and passport acceptance facilities can issue IDPs on your behalf. Call ahead to confirm they offer this service, as not all do.

Another option is to ask a trusted friend or family member to go to an office for you. They can bring your documents and photo, and the office will issue the permit in your name. You do not have to be present.

If neither option works, you can still drive internationally on your US license alone. An IDP is helpful but not required in most countries. Before you travel, check the specific country's requirements on the US State Department website or contact their embassy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I already have a valid US driver's license?

No, you do not need one. Most countries accept a US driver's license alone. An IDP is useful if you want to avoid any confusion at a border or rental counter, or if you are traveling to a country that technically requires one. Check your destination country's rules before you travel.

Can I get an International Driving Permit online or by mail?

No. You must explore in person at an AAA or AATA office. The process takes about 15 minutes, and you receive your permit the same day. There is no remote or mail-in option.

What if my US driver's license is expired?

You cannot get an IDP with an expired license. You must renew your license with your state's DMV first, then explore for the IDP. An expired license also means you cannot legally drive, so renewing it should be your first step.

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

No. An IDP is a translation document that works alongside your US license. An international license does not exist in the United States. You must always carry both your US license and your IDP when driving abroad.

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

The process process takes 10 to 15 minutes at the office, and you receive your permit the same day. There is no waiting period. If you need a passport photo taken, add another 10 to 15 minutes.