What an International Driving Permit 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 is recognized in roughly 150 countries and is issued by your home country's automobile association or equivalent government body, not by the countries you plan to visit.
The IDP exists because border officials and police in other countries may not read your home license. The permit contains your photograph, signature, and driving record information in a standardized format that officials worldwide recognize. Without it, you may face fines, vehicle impoundment, or refusal of car rental in some destinations, even though your home license is technically valid.
The process and cost vary significantly by country. The United States, Canada, Australia, and most European nations have straightforward systems that take days to weeks. Some countries require you to explore in person; others allow mail or online requests. Fees typically range from $15 to $50 USD equivalent, though this varies by issuing country.
Key Takeaways
- An International Driving Permit is a translation document issued by your home country's automobile association or licensing authority, not a new license.
- You must carry your home country's driver's license and the IDP together; the permit alone is not valid.
- The process process, required documents, and fees depend on which country issued your license.
- Most IDPs are valid for one or three years from the date of issue, so check the expiration date before traveling.
- Some car rental companies and travel insurance policies require an IDP, so confirm with your rental agency before your trip.
How to Get an IDP in the United States
In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized to issue International Driving Permits. You do not explore through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. Both organizations issue the same document; the choice between them depends on which is more convenient to you.
To explore through AAA, you need a valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form (Form DS-11 or the AAA-specific form, depending on location), one passport-sized photograph (2 by 2 inches), and payment of $20. You can explore in person at any AAA office, by mail, or online through the AAA website if you are a member. Processing takes three to five business days in person or one to two weeks by mail. If you are not an AAA member, you can still explore; membership is not required.
AATA operates similarly but has fewer physical locations. You can explore by mail or through their website. The fee is also $20, and the documents required are the same. Processing time is typically one to two weeks by mail.
How to Get an IDP in Canada
In Canada, the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) issues International Driving Permits. You need a valid Canadian driver's license, a completed process form, one passport-sized photograph (2 by 2 inches), and payment of $20 CAD. You can explore in person at any CAA office or by mail.
In-person applications are processed when ready, so you can receive your IDP the same day. Mail applications take one to two weeks. CAA membership is not required to explore, though members may receive a small discount.
How to Get an IDP in the United Kingdom and Europe
In the United Kingdom, the Automobile Association (AA) and the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) both issue International Driving Permits. You need a valid UK photocard driving license, a completed process form, one passport-sized photograph, and payment of £5.50 to £15 depending on the organization. Both accept in-person and postal applications. Processing takes five to ten working days by post.
In most European countries, you explore through your national automobile club or your country's licensing authority. For example, in France you explore through the Automobile Club de France or your local prefecture; in Germany, through the ADAC or your local Führerscheinstelle (licensing office); in Australia, through the National Roads and Motorists' Association (NRMA) or your state's transport authority. The required documents are similar across Europe — a valid driver's license, process form, photograph, and a fee ranging from €10 to €30 — but the exact process and issuing body differ by country.
Contact your country's automobile association or transport ministry website to confirm the current process, required documents, and fees for your specific location.
What Documents You Need and How Long It Takes
| Country/Region | Issuing Body | Required Documents | Processing Time | Fee (Approximate) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | AAA or AATA | Valid U.S. driver's license, process form, passport photo | Same day (in person) or 1–2 weeks (mail) | $20 USD |
| Canada | CAA | Valid Canadian driver's license, process form, passport photo | Same day (in person) or 1–2 weeks (mail) | $20 CAD |
| United Kingdom | AA or RAC | Valid UK photocard license, process form, passport photo | 5–10 working days (mail) | £5.50–£15 |
| Australia | NRMA or state transport authority | Valid Australian driver's license, process form, passport photo | 1–2 weeks | $20–$30 AUD |
When You Actually Need an IDP Before Traveling
An IDP is legally required in some countries and recommended in others. The requirement depends on the country you are visiting, not your home country. Some nations, including France, Germany, Spain, and Italy, technically require an IDP if your home license is not in the Roman alphabet — for example, if you hold a Greek, Cyrillic, or Arabic license. However, enforcement varies widely.
Even where not legally required, an IDP is strongly recommended if you plan to rent a car. Many rental companies require an IDP as a condition of the rental agreement, regardless of local law. Check your rental confirmation or contact the rental company before your trip to confirm their policy. Some travel insurance policies also require an IDP for coverage of rental vehicles.
If you are only using public transportation or taxis and do not plan to drive, an IDP is not necessary. If you are driving your own vehicle across an international border, check the requirements of each country you will enter.
How Long an IDP Remains Valid
An International Driving Permit is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which country issued it and which form you received. Most U.S. and Canadian permits are valid for three years. UK permits are typically valid for one year. Check the expiration date printed on your permit before traveling.
An IDP is only valid if your home country driver's license is also valid. If your home license expires before your IDP does, the permit becomes invalid. Conversely, if your IDP expires before your home license, you can renew just the IDP without renewing your home license.
What Happens If You Do Not Have an IDP When You Need One
If you are stopped by police or a border official in a country where an IDP is required and you do not have one, you may face a fine, vehicle impoundment, or both. The severity depends on local law and the official's discretion. In some cases, you may be refused entry to a country or denied a car rental.
If you realize you need an IDP after arriving at your destination, you cannot obtain one there — you must have applied before leaving your home country. Some travelers have obtained temporary relief by contacting their embassy or consulate, but this is not a reliable solution and should not be counted on.
If you are renting a car and the rental company discovers you do not have an IDP when required, they may refuse to complete the rental, leaving you without transportation. This is why confirming the requirement with your rental company before your trip is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive internationally with just my home country driver's license?
In many countries, yes — your home license is legally valid. However, some countries require an IDP if your license is not in the Roman alphabet, and many car rental companies require an IDP regardless of local law. Check both the legal requirements of the countries you will visit and your rental company's policy before traveling.
Do I need a separate IDP for each country I visit?
No. One International Driving Permit is valid in all countries that recognize it (roughly 150 worldwide). You do not need multiple permits for multiple destinations.
What if my home country driver's license expires while I am traveling?
Your IDP becomes invalid if your home license expires, even if the permit itself has not reached its expiration date. Renew your home license before traveling if it will expire during your trip.
Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or revoked?
No. You must hold a valid, unsuspended driver's license to obtain an IDP. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot drive legally anywhere, including internationally.
How much does an International Driving Permit cost?
Fees vary by country. In the United States and Canada, the cost is $20 USD or CAD. In the UK, it ranges from £5.50 to £15. In Europe, fees typically range from €10 to €30. Check with your country's issuing body for the exact fee.