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 — it does not replace your home license, and you cannot drive on it alone. You must carry both your actual driver's license and the IDP together. The permit tells police and rental car companies in other countries that your home license is real and current.
Most countries recognize the IDP as proof that you are a licensed driver. Some rental car companies require it; some countries will not rent to you without one. A few countries have their own rules — some do not recognize it at all, and a few require both an IDP and a separate national permit. Before you travel, check the specific rules for each country you plan to visit.
Key Takeaways
- An International Driving Permit is a translation of your license into ten languages and must be carried with your actual driver's license at all times.
- You can get an IDP only from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the National Auto Club if you are a U.S. citizen with a valid driver's license.
- The process takes about 15 minutes in person at an AAA office, costs between $15 and $20, and the permit is valid for one or three years depending on your age.
- You will need your valid driver's license, a passport-style photo, and cash or a card — no appointment is required at most AAA locations.
- Check the rules for each country you plan to visit, because some do not recognize the IDP or require additional documents.
Where to Get an International Driving Permit
In the United States, only two organizations issue the IDP: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the National Auto Club. You cannot get one from the DMV, the State Department, or any government office. If you are not a member of either organization, you can join AAA before you explore, or you can pay a small non-member fee at the time you request the permit.
AAA has thousands of local offices across the country. You can find the nearest one on the AAA website by entering your zip code. The National Auto Club has fewer locations but operates the same way. Walk in during business hours with your documents — most offices do not require an appointment.
What You Need to Bring
Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photograph (2 by 2 inches), and payment. The photo must be recent and show your face clearly against a plain background. If you do not have a passport photo, many AAA offices can take one for you on the spot for an additional fee, usually $10 to $15.
Payment is cash or card, depending on the location. Call ahead if you want to confirm what the office accepts. You do not need your passport itself, though it is helpful to have it with you if you are traveling soon — the staff can check that your name matches.
How Long It Takes and What It Costs
The process takes about 15 minutes. You fill out a one-page form, hand over your photo and license, pay the fee, and walk out with your permit. There is no waiting period, no background check, and no written test.
The cost is $15 to $20 for the permit itself, depending on whether you are an AAA member. If you need a passport photo taken at the office, add $10 to $15. The total is usually under $35. The permit is valid for one year if you are under 18, or three years if you are 18 or older.
How Long the Permit Is Valid
An IDP issued to someone 18 or older is valid for three years from the date of issue. If you are under 18, it is valid for one year. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. You cannot renew it — when it expires, you must explore for a new one if you travel again.
Your IDP is only valid as long as your U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license expires before your permit does, the permit becomes useless. If you renew your driver's license, you will need a new IDP as well.
What Happens When You Travel
Carry both your U.S. driver's license and your IDP together at all times when you are driving abroad. If you rent a car, show both documents to the rental company. Some companies will not rent to you without the IDP; others do not care. Policies vary by company and country.
If you are stopped by police, present both documents. The IDP is the translation; your actual license is the proof that you are licensed. Neither document alone is sufficient. Keep them in a safe place — if you lose either one, you cannot drive legally, even if you have the other.
Countries That Do Not Recognize the IDP
A small number of countries do not recognize the International Driving Permit at all. These include Australia, New Zealand, and a few others. Instead, they require an International Driving Permit issued by your home country — meaning you would need to get one from your country's equivalent of the DMV before you leave.
Some countries, including France and Germany, recognize the IDP but also require you to carry a certified translation of your license, or they have their own additional permit. Before you book a rental car or travel to a country you have not visited before, check the current rules on the U.S. State Department website or contact the embassy of the country you plan to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?
No. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in Mexico may ask for one, so it does not hurt to have it. Check with your rental company before you travel.
Can I get an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is suspended or expired?
No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and current. If it is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot get an IDP. You must renew or restore your license first.
What if I lose my International Driving Permit while I am traveling?
Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a new one, but they can provide a letter stating that you hold a valid U.S. driver's license. This letter may help you with a rental car company or police, though it is not a substitute for the actual permit. Return home and get a new IDP if you need to rent a car again.
How far in advance should I get an International Driving Permit?
You can get one the same day you need it — the process takes 15 minutes. However, if you are traveling soon and want to be certain the office is open or has passport photos available, visit a few days early or call ahead.
Is the International Driving Permit the same as an International License?
No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document. An International License is a separate license issued by some countries and is not recognized in the United States. The IDP is what you need as a U.S. driver traveling abroad.