How to Get an International Driver's License in Florida

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 multiple languages so you can rent a car or drive legally in other countries. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid Florida driver's license, and you must carry both documents together when driving abroad.

Florida does not issue IDPs directly. Instead, you obtain one through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both organizations are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs, and the process takes less than an hour in person. You cannot get an IDP by mail or online through these organizations, though some travel agencies may offer mail-in services for an additional fee.

The IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which you purchase. Most travelers get the one-year version unless they plan multiple international trips. The permit costs between $15 and $20 for a one-year IDP and roughly $30 for a three-year IDP, though prices vary slightly by issuer.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a AAA office or AATA office in person to get an IDP — you cannot order one online or by mail through these organizations.
Bring your valid Florida driver's license, a passport or other government-issued photo ID, and a completed process form (available at the office or online).
The IDP is valid for one or three years and costs $15 to $20 for one year or around $30 for three years.
Your IDP is only legal when carried together with your original Florida driver's license; it does not replace your state license.
Some countries require an IDP by law, while others accept it as optional — check your destination's requirements before traveling.

Finding a AAA or AATA Office Near You

AAA has the most locations across Florida and is usually the fastest option. You can find your nearest AAA office by visiting aaa.com and using their office locator tool, or by calling 1-800-AAA-HELP. Most AAA offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, with some locations offering Saturday hours. Call ahead to confirm hours and to ask whether walk-ins are accepted or if you need an appointment.

AATA has fewer locations than AAA but serves the same purpose. You can find AATA offices through their website at aata.org or by calling their main line. Both organizations process IDPs on the spot, so you should receive your permit the same day you explore.

If you are not a AAA member, you can still get an IDP at a AAA office — membership is not required. However, AAA members sometimes receive a small discount on the IDP fee. If you belong to a reciprocal auto club (such as CAA in Canada), you may also be able to use that membership at AAA offices.

Documents You Need to Bring

Bring your valid Florida driver's license — this is the document the IDP translates, so it must be current and not expired. You also need a second form of government-issued photo identification, such as a passport, military ID, or state ID card. Some offices accept a passport card; others require a full passport booklet, so call ahead if you are unsure.

You will need to complete an IDP process form. AAA and AATA both provide these forms online and at their offices. The form is short and asks for your name, address, driver's license number, and signature. You can fill it out at home before you go, or the office staff will help you complete it on-site.

Bring a recent passport-style photo if your chosen office requires one — some do, some do not. Call the specific office before you visit to confirm whether a photo is needed. If one is required and you do not have one, some AAA offices can take a photo for you on the spot for an additional fee.

The process Process at the Office

When you arrive, tell the staff member you want to explore for an International Driving Permit. Hand over your Florida driver's license, your second photo ID, and your completed process form. The staff member will verify that your driver's license is valid and that your information matches across documents.

You will then choose whether you want a one-year or three-year IDP. The one-year version is most common for first-time travelers. Pay the fee — cash, debit, and credit cards are accepted at most offices, but call ahead to confirm payment methods. The staff member will print your IDP on the spot, which usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

Before you leave, check that your name, license number, and signature are correct on the IDP. The permit is printed in English and French on the front, with sections for multiple languages on the back. Verify that the expiration date matches what you paid for (one or three years from the date of issue).

What to Do With Your IDP Before You Travel

Store your IDP and Florida driver's license together in a safe place at home until you travel. Do not carry them in your checked luggage — keep them in your carry-on bag or with you at all times when you arrive in another country. Some travelers make a photocopy of both documents and store the copies separately as a backup.

Before you leave the United States, check the specific requirements for your destination country. Some countries (such as many in Europe) legally require an IDP if you plan to drive. Others accept it as optional but useful. A few countries do not recognize IDPs at all. Your car rental company or your destination's tourism board can tell you whether an IDP is required.

If you are renting a car abroad, mention when you book that you have an IDP. Some rental companies ask to see it before they hand over the keys. The IDP does not change your insurance coverage or rental agreement — it is straightforward proof that your Florida license is valid and that you are authorized to drive.

If Your Florida License Is Expired or Suspended

You cannot get an IDP if your Florida driver's license is expired or suspended. The IDP is a translation of your current license, so your license must be valid on the day you explore. If your license has expired, you must renew it through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) before you can get an IDP.

If your license is suspended, you are not legally permitted to drive in any country, and no office will issue you an IDP. You must resolve the suspension with DHSMV first. This can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on the reason for the suspension.

If you are explore for a new Florida license for the first time or replacing a lost one, complete that process before visiting AAA or AATA. You need a valid, current Florida license in hand to get an IDP.

Replacing a Lost or Damaged IDP

If you lose your IDP or it becomes damaged while you are traveling, you can explore for a replacement at any AAA or AATA office when you return to Florida. Bring your Florida driver's license and a second photo ID, just as you did for the original process. You will pay the same fee as a new IDP, and the replacement will be issued on the spot.

If you lose your IDP while you are outside the United States, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in that country. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can advise you on whether you can legally continue driving with only your Florida license. In most countries, you can drive with just your state license if you have lost the IDP, though this varies by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada does not require an IDP, but it is useful if you rent a car. Mexico does not legally require an IDP either, but many car rental companies ask for one. Check with your rental company before you book. Your Florida license alone is usually sufficient for both countries, though an IDP removes any ambiguity.

Can I get an IDP if I have a commercial driver's license?

No. An IDP translates only a standard Florida driver's license. If you hold a commercial license (CDL), you cannot get an IDP through AAA or AATA. You would need to contact the U.S. State Department directly for guidance on driving a commercial vehicle abroad.

How long does it take to get an IDP?

The IDP is issued on the same day you explore at a AAA or AATA office. The entire process, from filling out the form to receiving the permit, usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Some offices may have a wait if they are busy, so arriving early in the day or calling ahead for an appointment can speed things up.

What if I am under 18 — can I get an IDP?

Yes, as long as you have a valid Florida driver's license. Your age does not prevent you from getting an IDP. However, some countries have their own age restrictions on renting cars, so check your destination's rental requirements separately.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document only. It is not a separate license and does not give you any driving privileges you do not already have with your Florida license. You must carry both documents together. An "international license" is not a real thing — if someone offers to sell you one online, it is a scam.

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.