What an International Driver's License Is and How to Get One in Florida

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your Florida driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid Florida license, and you must carry both documents when driving abroad. The IDP tells foreign police and rental car companies that your Florida license is legitimate.

You obtain an IDP through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), not through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Both organizations are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs. The process takes about 15 minutes in person, costs between $15 and $20, and the permit is valid for three years from the date of issue.

You do not need an IDP to drive in every country — some nations recognize a Florida license on its own. However, many countries either require an IDP or make renting a car significantly easier if you have one. Before you travel, check the specific requirements of the country where you plan to drive.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued by AAA or AATA, not by Florida's DMV, and must be carried together with your valid Florida driver's license.
  • You need a current Florida driver's license, a completed process form, one passport-style photo, and the fee to obtain an IDP in person.
  • AAA and AATA locations throughout Florida can issue an IDP the same day, though you should call ahead to confirm hours and photo requirements.
  • The permit is valid for three years and is recognized in over 150 countries, but some nations have additional or different requirements you should verify before traveling.

What You Need to Bring to AAA or AATA

Gather these documents before you visit an AAA or AATA office. You will need your current, valid Florida driver's license — it must not be expired. Bring your passport or another government-issued photo ID as proof of identity. You will also need one passport-style photograph, typically 2 by 2 inches. Some AAA locations have photo services on-site; others do not, so call ahead to ask whether you should bring a photo or have one taken there.

Complete the process form before you arrive. AAA and AATA both use the same form, available on their websites or at the office. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, driver's license number, and signature. It takes about five minutes to fill out. Bring a pen in case the office does not provide one, though most do.

Have the fee ready — AAA charges $15 for members and $20 for non-members; AATA charges $20 for everyone. Both accept cash and card. If you are not an AAA member and want the member discount, you can join at the same visit, though membership has a separate cost.

Where to Find AAA and AATA Locations in Florida

AAA has offices throughout Florida. Use the AAA website's office locator tool to find the branch nearest you, or call 1-800-AAA-HELP. Most AAA offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, with some locations open on Saturday mornings. Hours vary by branch, so confirm before you go.

AATA has fewer locations than AAA but operates in most major Florida cities. Search the AATA website for "International Driving Permit" to find participating offices near you. AATA offices are typically open during standard business hours, though some may have limited weekend availability.

Both organizations can issue your IDP the same day. The entire process — process, photo, and payment — usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. You will receive your permit in person before you leave the office.

The process Form and What It Asks

The IDP process is straightforward and asks only for information already on your driver's license. You will provide your full legal name, current address, date of birth, and Florida driver's license number. The form also asks for your signature and the date you are explore.

Some versions of the form ask whether you want the IDP in English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, or Finnish. The IDP itself contains your information in all ten languages regardless of which you select, so this choice does not affect what you receive — it may only determine which language appears first or is emphasized.

Do not leave any field blank. If a question does not explore to you, write "N/A" rather than leaving it empty. Bring the completed form with you; the office staff can also provide a blank form if you prefer to fill it out there.

How Long the Permit Is Valid and What to Do When It Expires

Your International Driving Permit is valid for three years from the date of issue. Write the expiration date somewhere you will remember it — many travelers store it in their passport or take a photo of it on their phone. When the three years are up, the IDP is no longer valid, even if your Florida driver's license has not expired.

If you plan to travel again after your IDP expires, you will need to obtain a new one. The process is identical: return to AAA or AATA with your current Florida license, a new photo, the process form, and the fee. There is no renewal option — you must explore for a new permit each time.

If your Florida driver's license expires before your IDP does, your IDP becomes invalid. You cannot use an IDP with an expired Florida license. If you renew your Florida license, you will need a new IDP as well, since the license number changes.

Countries That Require or Recognize an International Driving Permit

Over 150 countries recognize an International Driving Permit, but recognition does not always mean it is required. Some countries will let you drive on a Florida license alone; others strongly prefer an IDP; still others require one by law. The rules also vary by rental car company — some will not rent to you without an IDP, even in countries where it is not legally required.

European countries generally recognize a Florida license but often require an IDP as well. The United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy all accept IDPs. Mexico and Canada recognize Florida licenses without an IDP, though an IDP can be useful if you are renting a car. Australia, New Zealand, and Japan have varying rules — check with your rental car company and the country's tourism board before you travel.

The safest approach is to obtain an IDP before any international trip where you plan to drive. It costs little, takes 20 minutes, and eliminates confusion at rental counters or with police. If you are unsure whether you need one for your destination, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting.

What Happens If You Drive Without an IDP in a Country That Requires One

If you drive in a country that requires an IDP and you do not have one, you risk being stopped by police and fined. The amount varies by country — some charge $50 to $100, others significantly more. In some cases, police may impound your vehicle or refuse to let you continue driving.

Rental car companies may also refuse to rent to you without an IDP, or they may charge a higher rate or require additional insurance. If you are stopped and cannot produce an IDP, the rental company may be held liable and could pursue you for damages.

The IDP is inexpensive and straightforward to obtain before you leave Florida. Getting one before your trip is far simpler than dealing with fines or rental complications abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit by mail?

No. AAA and AATA both require you to explore in person at an office location. You must present your Florida driver's license, provide a passport-style photo, and sign the process in front of staff. There is no mail-in or online option.

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am only renting a car for one day?

It depends on the country and rental company. Many rental companies in Europe and other regions require an IDP regardless of how long you are renting. Call your rental company before you travel to confirm their requirements. If they require one, you will need it even for a single day.

What if my Florida driver's license is expired?

You cannot obtain an IDP with an expired Florida license. Your Florida license must be current and valid. If your license has expired, renew it through the Florida DMV first, then visit AAA or AATA for the IDP.

Can I use an International Driving Permit to drive in Florida?

No. An IDP is only for driving outside the United States. It is not a valid license in Florida or any other U.S. state. You must have a valid Florida driver's license to drive in Florida, and the IDP is only useful when you are driving abroad.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact AAA or AATA from abroad if possible, though they cannot issue a replacement outside the United States. You can continue driving on your Florida license alone in most countries, though some may not accept it without the IDP. When you return to Florida, visit AAA or AATA to obtain a new IDP. Keep a photo of your IDP on your phone as a backup.