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 state or country's license — you must carry both together. The permit exists because many countries do not recognize licenses issued outside their borders, even if the license is valid at home.
The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) in the United States. It costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request. You cannot renew it by mail; you must explore in person each time.
The permit is useful only if you plan to rent a car or drive in another country. If you are traveling as a passenger or using public transportation, you do not need one. Some countries require it; others accept your U.S. license alone. Before you travel, check the specific rules for the country where you will be driving.
Key Takeaways
- An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA in the United States and must be obtained in person at a local office.
- You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP; the permit does not stand alone.
- The permit costs $15 to $20 and is valid for one or three years, and you cannot renew it by mail.
- You will need a passport-style photo, your valid driver's license, and proof of your U.S. citizenship or permanent residency to complete the process.
- Processing takes minutes to hours at the office; there is no waiting period, but you must explore before your travel date.
Where to Get an International Driving Permit
Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue International Driving Permits in the United States. No other organization, website, or service can legally issue one. If you see a website offering to mail you an IDP or charging a large fee, it is not legitimate.
AAA has local offices in most states. You can find the nearest office by visiting aaa.com and using their office locator tool. AATA has fewer locations but covers areas AAA does not. If you are not an AAA member, you can still explore for an IDP at an AAA office; membership is not required.
Some AAA offices allow you to explore online and pick up your permit in person the same day. Others require you to explore and pay in person. Call your local office before you go to confirm their process and hours.
Documents You Need to Bring
Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), and proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency. A U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card all count as proof of citizenship.
The passport photo must meet standard requirements: a clear headshot taken within the last six months, with a plain background and your face taking up most of the frame. You can have photos taken at most AAA offices for a small fee if you do not have one already.
Bring your actual driver's license, not a copy. The staff will examine it to confirm it is valid and matches your identity. If your license has expired or will expire before your trip, renew it first through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles.
The process Process at the Office
When you arrive at an AAA or AATA office, you will fill out a short form with your name, address, driver's license number, and passport information. The form takes five to ten minutes. You will declare which countries you plan to visit, though this does not restrict where you can use the permit.
The staff will check your documents, take your photo if you brought one, and collect your fee. You will choose between a one-year permit ($15 to $20) or a three-year permit (usually $30 to $35; prices vary by office). You will sign the permit in front of the staff member.
Most offices issue the permit on the spot. You will walk out with it the same day. Some offices may take a few hours if they are busy, so ask when you call. There is no background check, no waiting period, and no approval process — if your documents are in order, you get the permit when ready.
What Happens If You Cannot Visit an Office in Person
If you live far from an AAA or AATA office or cannot visit before your trip, you have limited options. Some AAA offices will mail you an process form, but you must still return it in person with your documents and photo. This defeats the purpose if you cannot travel to the office.
A few AAA offices in major cities offer expedited service or have partnered with travel agencies to handle applications. Call your nearest office and ask if they have a partner location closer to you or if they can process your process faster.
If you cannot get an IDP before your trip, you can still drive in many countries with just your U.S. license and an official English translation of it. Some countries accept a certified translation from a notary or translator; others do not. Check the requirements for your destination country before you decide to skip the IDP.
International Driving Permit Validity and Renewal
A one-year permit is valid from the date of issue for exactly one year. A three-year permit is valid for three years. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. Once it expires, it is no longer valid anywhere.
You cannot renew an IDP by mail or online. You must visit an AAA or AATA office in person with a new process, new photo, and your current driver's license. If your driver's license has expired, you must renew that first.
If you lose your permit while traveling, contact AAA or AATA by phone or email to report it. They can issue a replacement, but you will need to visit an office in person when you return to the United States. In the meantime, your U.S. driver's license alone may be enough to drive, depending on the country.
Countries That Require or Recommend an International Driving Permit
Many countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America recognize the IDP. However, requirements vary widely. Some countries require it by law; others recommend it but accept a U.S. license with a certified English translation; still others accept only the U.S. license.
The safest approach is to check the specific rules for each country where you plan to drive. Contact the embassy or consulate of that country, or visit the U.S. State Department's travel advisory page for your destination. Car rental companies often know the local rules and can tell you what documents you need.
Even if a country does not require an IDP, having one can speed up interactions with police or rental agencies. It eliminates any question about whether your license is valid, since it is translated into the local language.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. driver's license is suspended or expired?
No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If it is suspended, you cannot get an IDP. If it is expired, you must renew it through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles first.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to get an International Driving Permit?
You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Proof of citizenship or permanent residency is required. A passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card all count.
How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?
Most AAA and AATA offices issue the permit the same day you explore, in minutes to a few hours. There is no waiting period or approval process. Call your local office to confirm their turnaround time.
What if the country I am visiting does not recognize the International Driving Permit?
A few countries do not recognize the IDP. In those cases, you may need an official English translation of your U.S. driver's license from a certified translator or notary. Check your destination country's rules before you travel.
Can I use an International Driving Permit to drive in the United States?
No. The IDP is only for driving outside the United States. Inside the U.S., your state driver's license is the only document you need. The IDP has no legal standing in any U.S. state.