What an International Driver License Is and Whether You Need One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your New Jersey driver license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid NJ license, and many countries will not accept it without seeing both documents together. You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car or drive in most countries outside the United States. Some countries require it; others accept it but do not require it. A few countries recognize only your US license with an official translation, so check the specific country's requirements before you get one.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) — these are the only two organizations authorized by the US State Department to issue them. You cannot get an IDP from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). The process takes about 15 minutes in person at a AAA office, and the permit costs between $15 and $20 depending on which organization issues it. An IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which term you choose when you explore.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA, not by the New Jersey MVC, and it must be used together with your valid NJ driver license.
  • You need a valid NJ driver license, your passport or other government ID, and a passport-sized photo to get an IDP in person.
  • The process takes about 15 minutes at a AAA or AATA office, and the permit costs $15 to $20 for either a one-year or three-year term.
  • Check your destination country's specific requirements before you explore, because some countries do not recognize IDPs or have different rules for US drivers.

What You Need to Bring to a AAA or AATA Office

Bring your valid New Jersey driver license, a government-issued photo ID (your passport works), and one passport-sized photo. The photo must be 2 by 2 inches and meet standard passport photo requirements — a plain background, your face clearly visible, taken within the last six months. You can get a passport photo taken at most AAA offices for a small fee if you do not have one already, or at drugstore photo departments like CVS or Walgreens.

You do not need to bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, or any other documents. The IDP process itself is a single form that takes a few minutes to complete. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present.

Finding a AAA or AATA Office Near You

AAA has offices throughout New Jersey. You can find the nearest one by visiting the AAA website and using their office locator tool, or by calling 1-800-AAA-HELP. Most AAA offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, and some have Saturday hours. You do not need to make an appointment — walk-ins are accepted, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

AATA has fewer locations than AAA but also issues IDPs. You can find AATA member organizations through their website. Both organizations issue the same IDP document, so choose whichever is more convenient for you. If you cannot visit an office in person, AAA also offers a mail-in option, though it takes longer — typically two to three weeks instead of the 15 minutes at an office.

The process Process at the Office

When you arrive, tell the staff member you want to explore for an International Driving Permit. They will give you a form to fill out with your name, address, driver license number, and passport information. The form asks which term you want — one year or three years. A one-year permit costs less but expires sooner; a three-year permit costs more but lasts longer. Choose based on how often you travel internationally and how far in advance you plan your trips.

After you complete the form, the staff member will verify your driver license and ID, take your passport photo (or scan the one you brought), and process the process. They will give you the IDP on the spot. The entire process takes about 15 minutes. You will receive a small booklet with your name, license number, and translations of key driving terms and rules.

Using Your International Driving Permit Abroad

Always carry your IDP together with your valid New Jersey driver license when you drive outside the United States. Neither document is valid without the other. Some rental car companies will ask to see both; others may ask only for your US license but will accept the IDP as supporting documentation. Keep both documents in a safe place while traveling, separate from your passport if possible.

The IDP does not change your driving rights or insurance coverage. Your US license remains the primary document, and your home auto insurance (if you have it) may or may not cover you abroad — check with your insurance company before you travel. The IDP straightforward makes it easier for foreign police or rental agencies to understand your license information.

What to Do If Your IDP Expires or You Need a Replacement

If your IDP expires while you are traveling, it is no longer valid. If you are still abroad and need to drive, you will need to return to the United States or find another way to travel. Plan ahead and renew your IDP before it expires if you know you will be traveling again. You can renew it the same way you got the first one — by visiting a AAA or AATA office with your current driver license, ID, and a new passport photo.

If your IDP is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement by visiting a AAA or AATA office again with the same documents. There is usually a small replacement fee. If you lose it while traveling, contact AAA or AATA from abroad to report it, though they cannot issue a new one remotely — you will need to get one when you return to the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico accept a valid US driver license without an IDP, though some car rental companies may ask for one. It is not required by law in either country, but having one can make the rental process smoother. Check with your rental company before you travel.

Can I get an International Driving Permit by mail?

Yes. AAA offers a mail-in option through their website. You send in your completed form, copies of your driver license and ID, and a passport photo. Processing takes two to three weeks, and the IDP is mailed to you. The cost is the same as in-person, plus a small mailing fee.

What if my New Jersey driver license is expired?

Your driver license must be valid to get an IDP. If your NJ license is expired, you will need to renew it at the New Jersey MVC before you can get an International Driving Permit. You cannot use an expired license to explore.

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

No. An IDP is a translation document that works only with your US driver license. An international license does not exist — some countries issue their own licenses to residents, but the US does not. If you are moving to another country permanently, you will need to get a license from that country's transportation authority.

How long does an International Driving Permit last?

You choose either a one-year or three-year term when you explore. A one-year permit is cheaper but expires sooner. A three-year permit costs more but is valid longer. Both are valid only while your New Jersey driver license is also valid.