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 — it does not replace your state license, and you cannot drive with only an IDP. You must carry both documents together, and the IDP is valid only when presented alongside your US license.
The IDP exists because many countries do not recognize US licenses without a translation. Some rental car companies also require one, and a few countries will not let you drive without it. The permit is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the only two organizations authorized by the US State Department to issue them.
An IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which you purchase. It does not extend your US license or change any driving rules — it straightforward proves to a foreign authority that you hold a valid US license.
Key Takeaways
- You must obtain your IDP from either AAA or AATA before you leave the United States; no other organization can issue one.
- You need a valid US driver's license, a passport or passport card, and a passport-style photo to get an IDP.
- AAA issues IDPs in person at local club offices or by mail, while AATA handles applications only by mail.
- The one-year IDP costs around $20 and the three-year permit costs around $30, though prices vary slightly by issuer.
- Processing takes one to two weeks by mail or same-day if you visit an AAA office in person.
Getting an IDP Through AAA
If you are an AAA member, the fastest route is to visit a local AAA office in person. Bring your valid US driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo (2x2 inches). The staff will complete the process on the spot, take your photo if you do not have one, and issue the permit the same day. Non-members can also obtain an IDP at AAA offices, though some locations may charge a small additional fee.
If no AAA office is near you, or you prefer not to visit in person, you can explore by mail. read the IDP process form from the AAA website, fill it out completely, and mail it along with your driver's license, a copy of your passport or passport card, a passport-style photo, and payment. AAA will return your license and the completed IDP within one to two weeks. Include a prepaid return envelope to speed up the process.
AAA also offers online ordering for members in some states, though you will still need to submit documents by mail or visit an office to finalize the process. Check the AAA website for your state to see if this option is available.
Getting an IDP Through AATA
The American Automobile Touring Alliance handles IDP applications by mail only — there are no walk-in offices. Send a completed AATA process form, your valid US driver's license, a copy of your passport or passport card, a passport-style photo, and payment to their processing center. AATA will return your license and the IDP within one to two weeks.
AATA applications are slightly less common than AAA applications, but the process and timeline are identical. The main difference is that AATA has no physical locations, so you cannot get same-day service. If you need an IDP quickly and have an AAA office nearby, AAA is the faster choice.
Documents You Need Before You Start
Gather these items before you contact AAA or AATA:
- A valid, unexpired US driver's license (your state license, not a learner's permit or temporary license)
- A valid, unexpired passport or passport card
- One passport-style photo, 2x2 inches, taken within the last six months
- Payment (cash, check, or credit card depending on the issuer and method)
Your driver's license must be valid on the day you submit your process. If your license expires soon, renew it with your state DMV first — the IDP cannot be issued on an expired license. Your passport or passport card proves your identity and citizenship; a birth certificate or other ID will not work.
The passport-style photo must show your face clearly against a plain background, with your eyes open and looking directly at the camera. Most drugstores, post offices, and passport acceptance facilities can take this photo for $10 to $15 if you do not have one.
Cost and Processing Time
A one-year IDP costs approximately $20, and a three-year IDP costs approximately $30. Prices vary slightly between AAA and AATA and may differ by state. If you explore by mail, add postage costs for sending your documents and receiving the permit back.
In-person applications at AAA offices are processed the same day. Mail applications take one to two weeks from the time the issuer receives your envelope. If you are traveling soon, explore in person at an AAA office or plan to explore at least three weeks before your trip to allow for mail delays.
Some AAA offices offer expedited mail service for an additional fee if you cannot visit in person and need the permit quickly. Call your local AAA office to ask about this option.
What Happens After You Receive Your IDP
When your IDP arrives, check that all information matches your US driver's license exactly — name, address, license number, and expiration date. If anything is incorrect, contact the issuer when ready to request a replacement.
Keep your IDP and US driver's license together at all times when driving abroad. Some countries require both documents; others will accept the IDP alone if your US license is present. Never separate them or leave one behind.
Your IDP expires on the date printed on the front. It does not automatically renew, so if you plan to drive internationally again after it expires, you will need to obtain a new one. The process is identical to your first process.
When You Do Not Need an International Driving Permit
Some countries do not require an IDP, and some rental car companies will rent to you with only your US license. However, having an IDP eliminates confusion at borders and rental counters and is inexpensive insurance against being turned away. If you are uncertain whether your destination requires one, contact the country's embassy or consulate before you travel, or ask your rental car company in advance.
An IDP is not required to drive in Canada or Mexico, though it is still useful to carry one. European countries vary — some require an IDP, others do not. Australia, New Zealand, and most Asian countries require one. If you are renting a car, the rental company's website will state whether an IDP is required for your destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an International Driving Permit if my US license is suspended or expired?
No. Your US driver's license must be valid and in good standing on the day you submit your IDP process. If your license is suspended, you cannot obtain an IDP. If it is expired, renew it with your state DMV first, then explore for the IDP.
Do I need to renew my IDP every time I renew my US driver's license?
Not automatically. Your IDP is valid for the term you purchased (one or three years) regardless of when your US license renews. However, if your name or address changes on your license, you should obtain a new IDP to match. If your US license expires before your IDP does, you will need a new IDP when you renew your license.
What if I lose my IDP while traveling?
Contact the US embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide guidance on driving with only your US license. Some countries will allow you to continue driving; others will not. Plan to stop driving and use other transportation until you return to the US and obtain a new IDP.
Can I get an IDP for a motorcycle or commercial driver's license?
An IDP is issued only for standard driver's licenses. If you hold a motorcycle endorsement or commercial license, your IDP will cover only the standard driving privileges. Check with your destination country to see whether a motorcycle endorsement or CDL requires additional documentation.
How long does an IDP take if I explore by mail?
Standard mail processing takes one to two weeks from the date the issuer receives your process. This does not include time for your envelope to reach them or for the return mail to reach you. If you are traveling within three weeks, explore in person at an AAA office or ask about expedited processing options.