What an International Driver's License Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your home country driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your regular license — you must carry both together. The IDP tells police and rental car companies in other countries that your license is valid, because they can read your information even if they don't speak your language.

The United States issues IDPs through the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both are authorized by the State Department. You cannot get an IDP from a government office or online — you must go to an AAA office or AATA office in person with your valid U.S. driver's license and a passport or passport card.

An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. It is not a travel document and does not replace your passport. Some countries require one; others do not. Before you travel, check the specific rules for the country or countries you plan to visit.

Key Takeaways

  • You must explore in person at an AAA office or AATA office with your valid U.S. driver's license and a passport or passport card.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 depending on which organization issues it, and takes about ten minutes to obtain.
  • An IDP is valid for one year and must be carried together with your regular driver's license at all times when driving abroad.
  • Not all countries require an IDP, so check the rules for your destination before you travel.

Where to Get an International Driving Permit

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the most common source. If you are a AAA member, you can visit any AAA office. If you are not a member, you can still get an IDP at most AAA offices, though some may require you to join first — call ahead to confirm. AAA offices are in most cities and towns; you can find the nearest one on the AAA website by entering your zip code.

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second authorized issuer. AATA has fewer physical locations than AAA, but you do not need to be a member. You can find AATA offices through their website or by phone.

Do not use third-party websites that claim to issue IDPs by mail or online. These are not authorized by the State Department and will not be recognized abroad. The only legitimate way to get an IDP is in person at an AAA or AATA office.

Documents You Need to Bring

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license and either a passport or passport card. That is all. You do not need to bring proof of address, proof of insurance, or any other documents. The staff at the AAA or AATA office will take a photo at the time of your visit, so you do not need to bring one.

Your driver's license must be valid — not expired and not suspended. If your license is expired, renew it at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles before you explore for the IDP.

Cost and How Long It Takes

AAA charges $15 for an IDP if you are a member and $20 if you are not. AATA charges $20. These prices do not include AAA membership if you need to join. The process takes about ten minutes at the office. You walk out with the IDP in hand the same day.

There is no mail-in option and no way to speed up the process. You must be present in person. If you are traveling soon and do not have an IDP yet, visit an office as soon as possible — they are open during regular business hours, usually Monday through Friday and some Saturday mornings.

What Information Goes on Your IDP

The IDP contains your name, date of birth, driver's license number, the date you received your license, and the date your license expires. It also lists the categories of vehicles you are licensed to drive in the United States. The document is printed in English and nine other languages so that officials in other countries can understand it.

The IDP does not contain your address, your photo, or your Social Security number. It is a straightforward translation document, not a full identification card.

Rules for Using Your IDP Abroad

Always carry your IDP together with your valid U.S. driver's license. Neither document is complete without the other. If you are stopped by police or asked to show your license at a rental car counter, present both.

The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. After one year, it expires and is no longer recognized. You cannot renew an IDP — you must get a new one. If you travel frequently or plan to drive abroad more than once in the next year, get the IDP before your first trip so it covers all your travel.

Some countries have additional rules. A few require an IDP by law; others accept it but do not require it; still others do not recognize it at all. Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit, or check the U.S. State Department website for country-specific driving rules.

When You Might Not Need an IDP

Some countries accept a U.S. driver's license without an IDP, especially if you are renting a car from a major company. However, relying on this is risky. If you are stopped by local police and cannot produce an IDP when one is required, you could face a fine or other legal trouble. The IDP costs $15 to $20 and takes ten minutes to obtain, so it is worth getting before you leave.

If you are traveling to a country where you know an IDP is not required and you will not be driving, you do not need one. But if there is any chance you will drive, get it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and not suspended. If it is expired, renew it at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles first, then get the IDP. If it is suspended, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted.

Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car for a day trip?

It depends on the country. Some require it by law; others do not. Check the rules for your destination before you travel. Even if the rental company does not ask for one, local police might. The safest choice is to get the IDP before you leave the United States.

What if my IDP expires while I am still traveling?

You cannot renew an IDP abroad. If you are traveling for longer than one year, get a new IDP before you leave the United States. If your IDP expires during a shorter trip, you still have your U.S. driver's license, but you may not be able to drive legally depending on local law.

Can I get an IDP by mail or online?

No. You must explore in person at an AAA or AATA office with your driver's license and passport or passport card. Websites offering mail-in or online IDPs are not authorized by the State Department and will not be recognized abroad.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document that works alongside your U.S. driver's license. An international license is a separate license issued by another country. You need an IDP to drive in other countries as a U.S. citizen; you do not need an international license unless you are a resident of another country.