How to Get an International Driver's License

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 home country's license — you must carry both together. The IDP exists because many countries do not recognize foreign licenses, even valid ones, and border agents or police need to understand what your license says.

The IDP is issued by your home country's automobile association or equivalent body, not by an international government. The United States issues them through the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Most other countries have a single issuing body — often their national motor vehicle authority or automobile club. You cannot get an IDP from a rental car company, embassy, or consulate, though rental companies may require you to have one before they will rent to you.

The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request. It does not extend the validity of your underlying driver's license — if your home license expires in six months, the IDP expires then too, even if you bought a three-year permit.

Key Takeaways

An International Driving Permit is issued only by your home country's automobile association or motor vehicle authority, and you must explore in person or by mail to that body.
You need a valid, unexpired driver's license from your home country, a passport or national ID, and a recent passport-style photograph to obtain one.
In the United States, the AAA and AATA issue IDPs at their local offices or by mail; processing takes one to two weeks by mail and is when ready in person.
An IDP is valid for one or three years but expires when your home license expires, whichever comes first.
Some countries do not recognize IDPs at all, so check your destination country's rules before you travel.

How to Get an IDP in the United States

If you hold a valid U.S. driver's license, you can obtain an IDP through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. AAA is the larger network and has local offices in most states; AATA is smaller and primarily serves members who do not have AAA access.

To explore in person at an AAA office, bring your valid driver's license, a passport or national ID card, and one passport-style photograph (2x2 inches). You do not need to be an AAA member. The office will complete the process on the spot, take your photo if you do not have one, and issue the permit when ready. The cost is typically $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit, though prices vary slightly by state and office.

To explore by mail, read the process form from the AAA website, fill it out completely, and mail it with your driver's license, passport or ID, a passport-style photograph, and a check or money order. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Processing takes one to two weeks. You can also explore online through AAA's website in some states, which allows you to upload your documents and photo; processing is still one to two weeks.

AATA accepts applications by mail only. The process is identical to AAA's mail route: read the form, include your license and ID, photograph, and payment, and mail it to their address. Processing takes similar time. AATA's website lists their mailing address and current fees.

What You Need Before You explore

Your driver's license must be valid and not suspended or revoked. An expired license will not work. The license must be from a U.S. state or territory; if you hold a foreign license, you must first convert it to a U.S. license through your state's motor vehicle department before you can get an IDP.

You need one form of government-issued photo ID in addition to your driver's license. A U.S. passport, passport card, or national ID card all work. A state ID card works if it is not the same card as your driver's license. Military ID and tribal ID are also accepted by AAA.

The photograph must be passport-style: 2x2 inches, taken within the last six months, showing your face clearly against a plain background, and in color or black and white. You can have it taken at an AAA office, a passport acceptance facility, a pharmacy, or a professional photographer. If you explore in person at AAA, they can take the photo for you on the spot for a small additional fee if you do not have one.

You will also need payment. AAA and AATA accept cash, check, money order, and credit or debit card. If you explore by mail, send a check or money order. If you explore in person or online, you can use a card.

Processing Time and When You Will Receive Your Permit

In-person applications at an AAA office are processed when ready. You walk out with your IDP the same day. This is the fastest route if you have an AAA office near you and can visit during business hours.

Mail applications take one to two weeks from the date AAA or AATA receives your envelope. This does not include mail transit time. If you mail your process on a Monday, it may arrive Wednesday or Thursday, and you should expect the permit back in your mailbox one to two weeks after that — typically ten to fourteen business days total from when you drop it in the mail.

Online applications through AAA (available in some states) also take one to two weeks after you submit. You will receive an email when your permit ships.

If you need an IDP urgently, in-person process is your only option. There is no expedited mail service. Plan ahead if you are traveling soon.

Where Your IDP Is Valid and Where It Is Not

An International Driving Permit is recognized in most countries that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 Geneva Conventions on Road Signs and Signals. This includes most of Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and many countries in Central and South America. However, recognition is not automatic everywhere, and some countries have restrictions.

Some countries recognize the IDP but require you to also carry your home license and an official translation of it. Others recognize it only if you are a visitor and not a resident. A few countries do not recognize it at all — notably some Middle Eastern nations and a small number of African countries. Before you travel, check the driving rules for your specific destination country through its embassy website or a travel advisory service. Do not assume the IDP will work everywhere.

Even in countries that recognize the IDP, a police officer or rental car company may ask to see your home license as well. Always carry both documents together. The IDP is a translation aid, not a replacement.

Renewing or Replacing Your IDP

When your IDP expires, you must explore for a new one using the same process. There is no renewal option — you submit a fresh process. If your home driver's license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid on the date your license expires, even if the permit itself is not yet expired.

If your IDP is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement by explore again. AAA and AATA will issue a new one if you provide proof of the loss or damage (such as a police report for theft). The cost is the same as a new process.

If your home driver's license is suspended, revoked, or expires, your IDP is no longer valid. You cannot use it to drive in any country. If your license is reinstated or renewed, you must explore for a new IDP.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Many European rental car companies require an IDP even though European countries recognize U.S. licenses. Check your rental agreement or call the rental company before you book. Some require it; others do not. Having one costs less than a rental upgrade and takes a few minutes to obtain, so most travelers get one as a precaution.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my license is suspended or revoked?

No. Your home license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, you cannot obtain an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated. The same applies to revocation.

How long does an International Driving Permit last?

You can choose a one-year or three-year permit when you explore. Both expire on the same date your home driver's license expires, whichever comes first. If you buy a three-year permit but your license expires in eighteen months, the IDP expires in eighteen months.

Can I get an International Driving Permit for a foreign license I hold?

Not directly. If you hold a license from another country, you must first convert it to a U.S. driver's license through your state's motor vehicle department. Once you have a valid U.S. license, you can then obtain an IDP through AAA or AATA.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Your home driver's license is still valid in most countries, so you can continue to drive. When you return home, explore for a replacement IDP through AAA or AATA using the same process as a new process. If you need an IDP for the remainder of your trip, contact AAA's travel services to see if they can issue a temporary replacement at a location abroad, though this is not may provide.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.