What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. driver's license, and you must carry both together. Some countries recognize it; others do not. Before you obtain one, check whether the country you are visiting actually accepts it, because many nations require you to get an official translation from their consulate instead.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). You cannot get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. The permit is valid for one or three years, depending on which you choose, and costs between $15 and $20. It is a straightforward process that takes less than an hour if you go in person.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA, not by your state DMV, and must be carried together with your valid U.S. driver's license.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or other government ID, and a passport-sized photo (2x2 inches) to obtain one.
  • You can explore in person at an AAA office or by mail through AATA, and the process takes less than an hour in person or one to two weeks by mail.
  • Many countries do not recognize the IDP and instead require an official translation from their consulate, so verify acceptance before you travel.
  • The permit costs $15 to $20 and is valid for either one or three years depending on your choice.

What You Need Before You Go to AAA

Gather these documents before you visit an AAA office or prepare them for mailing. You will need a valid U.S. driver's license — it must not be expired. You will also need a second form of government-issued identification, such as a passport, state ID card, or military ID. A passport is the easiest option because you will likely need it for travel anyway.

Bring one passport-sized photograph that is 2 inches by 2 inches. This is the same size used for passport photos. You can obtain one at most pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens), UPS stores, or professional photography studios for $10 to $15. The photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. Bring cash or a card — AAA offices accept both.

Getting an IDP in Person at AAA

Find your nearest AAA office by visiting AAA.com and using their office locator. Not all AAA members can obtain an IDP at every office — some locations handle only membership services. Call ahead to confirm that the office you plan to visit issues International Driving Permits. Walk-in service is available at most locations, but you can also schedule an appointment online to avoid waiting.

Bring your valid driver's license, second ID, passport photo, and payment method. The staff will complete a one-page form with you, verify your documents, and take your photo if you did not bring one (though bringing your own is faster). The entire process takes 10 to 20 minutes. You will receive your IDP when ready — you do not have to wait for it to be mailed. The cost is $20 for AAA members and $30 for non-members.

Getting an IDP by Mail Through AATA

If you do not have an AAA office nearby or prefer not to visit in person, you can explore by mail through the American Automobile Touring Alliance. Visit AATA.org, read the process form, and print it. Fill in the form completely — incomplete applications will be returned and delay your permit.

Mail the completed form, a copy of your valid driver's license, a copy of your second ID, your passport-sized photo, and a check or money order for $15 (one-year permit) or $20 (three-year permit) to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope so AATA can return your documents. Mail processing takes one to two weeks from the date AATA receives your envelope. Track your process by calling AATA's phone line if you need to confirm receipt.

Choosing Between a One-Year and Three-Year Permit

The one-year permit costs $15 and is useful if you travel internationally only once or twice. The three-year permit costs $20 and makes sense if you travel abroad regularly or plan multiple trips over the next few years. Both are valid only while your U.S. driver's license remains valid — if your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid.

Consider your travel plans and how long you expect to keep your current driver's license. If you plan to renew your license within the next year, a one-year permit may be sufficient. If your license is relatively new and you travel frequently, the three-year permit offers better value per trip.

What to Do When You Travel

Pack both your U.S. driver's license and your International Driving Permit together. Never carry one without the other — the IDP is not valid on its own. When you rent a car or are stopped by police, present both documents. The IDP translates your license information into ten languages (English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Finnish), which helps rental agencies and officials understand your driving record.

Before you leave the United States, verify that the country you are visiting actually accepts the IDP. Many countries, including Australia, Canada, and parts of Europe, recognize it. Others, such as some Latin American nations and parts of Asia, do not. If your destination does not recognize the IDP, contact that country's consulate in the United States to learn whether you need an official translation of your license instead. Getting this information before you travel prevents problems at rental counters or checkpoints.

If Your IDP Is Lost or Damaged While Traveling

If you lose your IDP abroad, you can still drive using your U.S. driver's license alone in most countries, though rental agencies may be less willing to rent to you. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to report the loss and ask whether they can issue a replacement or provide a letter confirming your license status. This is not a quick process, so prevention is important — keep your IDP in a separate pocket from your license.

If your IDP is damaged but still readable, most rental agencies will accept it. If it becomes unreadable, you will need to obtain a new one. You can explore for a replacement through AAA or AATA using the same process as your original process. There is no expedited option, so plan for one to two weeks if you are explore by mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

It depends on the country and rental company. Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain recognize the IDP. However, some rental agencies in these countries prefer an official translation from the country's consulate. Check with your rental company before you travel — they will tell you what documents they require.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not suspended. If your license is expired, renew it at your state DMV before you explore for an IDP. If your license is suspended, you cannot obtain an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?

In person at AAA, you receive it when ready — usually within 20 minutes. By mail through AATA, processing takes one to two weeks from the date they receive your process. Add time for mail delivery in both directions, so plan for two to three weeks total if you are explore by mail.

What happens if the country I am visiting does not recognize the International Driving Permit?

You will still be able to drive with your U.S. driver's license, but rental agencies may refuse to rent to you. Contact the consulate of the country you are visiting and ask whether they require an official translation of your license. Some countries issue these translations; others accept only your U.S. license with a certified English translation of your name and address.

Can I renew my International Driving Permit before it expires?

Yes. You can explore for a new IDP at any time, even if your current one has not expired. There is no penalty for obtaining a replacement early. straightforward follow the same process — in person at AAA or by mail through AATA — and you will receive a new permit with a fresh expiration date.