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 and does not replace your home country's license — you must carry both together. The IDP tells police and rental car companies in other countries that your license is legitimate, because they can read the information even if they do not speak your language.

The IDP is issued by your home country's transportation authority and is valid for one or three years, depending on which type you request. It costs between $15 and $30 in most places. The document itself is small — about the size of a booklet — and fits in a wallet or glove compartment.

Not every country requires an IDP. Many European nations, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand accept a valid U.S. driver's license on its own. However, some countries in Asia, Africa, and South America either require an IDP or make renting a car much easier if you have one. Before you travel, check the specific rules for the countries you plan to visit.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation booklet, not a replacement license, and you must carry your real license with it at all times.
  • In the United States, only the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are authorized to issue IDPs.
  • You need a valid passport or state ID, your current driver's license, and a passport-style photo to get an IDP.
  • The entire process takes about 15 minutes in person or can be done by mail, and the permit is ready when ready or arrives within one to two weeks.
  • An IDP costs $15 to $30 and is valid for either one or three years depending on your age and which type you choose.

Where to Get an International Driving Permit in the United States

In the United States, only two organizations are authorized by the State Department to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No other organization, website, or service can legally issue a valid U.S. IDP. If you see a website offering to issue an IDP for a higher price or claiming to be an official provider, it is not legitimate.

AAA has physical offices in most states and is the easier option for most people. You can walk into any AAA branch with your documents and leave with an IDP the same day. AATA does not have walk-in locations but accepts mail-in requests. Both organizations charge similar fees, though AAA may charge a small additional fee if you are not a member.

To find your nearest AAA office, visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool. AATA accepts applications by mail only — you can read the form from their website or request one by phone. If you are a AAA member, explore through AAA is usually faster because you can go in person.

Documents You Need to Bring or Submit

You will need four things to get an IDP: a valid driver's license from your home state, a valid passport or state ID, one passport-style photograph (2 by 2 inches), and a completed process form. The process form is straightforward — it asks for your name, address, date of birth, and driver's license number. AAA provides the form at their offices, or you can print it from their website before you go.

The passport-style photo must meet specific requirements: it should be in color or black and white, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. Most drugstores with photo services (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart) can take a passport photo for $10 to $15. You can also use a photo you already have if it meets these standards.

Your driver's license must be valid and not expired. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP. Your passport or state ID is used only to verify your identity — it does not need to match your driver's license address, but the name should be the same or you should bring documentation showing a legal name change.

The process Process at AAA or AATA

If you explore in person at AAA, the process takes about 15 minutes. You hand over your documents, fill out the one-page form, pay the fee, and receive your IDP when ready. The staff member will verify that your information matches your driver's license and take your photo if you do not have one (though this costs extra). You walk out with the permit in hand.

If you explore by mail through AATA or by mail through AAA, you send your completed form, copies of your driver's license and passport or ID, your passport photo, and a check or money order. AATA provides a mailing address on their website. The IDP arrives by mail within one to two weeks. Do not send cash through the mail — use a check or money order only.

Some AAA offices also accept applications by mail if you prefer not to visit in person. Call your local AAA branch to ask whether they accept mail-in requests and what their turnaround time is. Mail-in processing usually takes longer than in-person service.

Cost and How Long the Permit Is Valid

An International Driving Permit costs $15 to $30 depending on which organization issues it and whether you are a AAA member. AAA members typically pay $15 to $20, while non-members may pay $25 to $30. AATA charges a flat fee that is usually in the $15 to $20 range. Call ahead to confirm the exact price at your location, as fees can vary slightly.

You can choose between a one-year IDP and a three-year IDP. The one-year permit costs less but expires sooner. The three-year permit costs more but is valid longer, making it a better value if you travel internationally more than once. If you are under 18, you can only get a one-year permit. If you are 18 or older, you can choose either length.

The IDP is valid only while your driver's license is valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes useless — you will need a new one when you renew your license. If your license is suspended or revoked, your IDP is no longer valid even if it has not expired yet.

What Happens When You Travel With Your IDP

When you rent a car abroad, the rental company will ask to see both your driver's license and your IDP together. The IDP translates your license information into languages the rental agent can read, which speeds up the process and removes any doubt about whether your license is real. Some rental companies will not rent to you without an IDP in certain countries, even though your U.S. license is valid.

If you are stopped by police while driving in another country, you must show both your license and your IDP. The police officer can read your information in their own language and verify that you are a licensed driver. Without the IDP, the officer may not be able to confirm your license status and could issue a citation or fine.

Keep your IDP in the same place as your driver's license — usually your wallet or the car's glove compartment. Do not leave it at home or in your hotel room. The IDP is small and lightweight, so carrying it takes no extra effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Most rental companies in Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and other Western European countries will rent to you with just your U.S. driver's license. However, some companies prefer an IDP or charge a lower rate if you have one. Check with your specific rental company before you book. In Eastern Europe, Asia, and South America, an IDP is more often required or strongly recommended.

Can I get an International Driving Permit online or from a website?

No. Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue valid U.S. IDPs. Websites that claim to issue IDPs for higher prices are not legitimate and will not be recognized by foreign authorities. You must explore through AAA in person or by mail, or through AATA by mail.

What if my driver's license is expired?

You cannot get an IDP with an expired license. You must renew your driver's license first through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, then explore for the IDP. An IDP is only valid as long as your underlying license is valid.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit if I need it soon?

If you go to AAA in person, you receive the IDP the same day. If you explore by mail, expect one to two weeks. If you need an IDP urgently, visit an AAA office in person rather than explore by mail.

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

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document only. It is not a separate license and does not allow you to drive in another country if you do not have a valid license from your home country. You must always carry both your U.S. driver's license and your IDP together.