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 and does not replace your home license — you must carry both together. The IDP tells police, rental car companies, and border officials in other countries that your license is legitimate, because they can read your information even if they do not speak English.

The IDP is issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. You cannot get one from a federal office or from the country you plan to visit. The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request, and it costs between $15 and $30 depending on your state.

Some countries do not require an IDP if you carry your U.S. license, but rental car companies often do require one, and having it removes friction at borders and checkpoints. If you plan to drive in Europe, Asia, or Latin America, getting one before you leave is simpler than trying to obtain one while traveling.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by your state DMV and must be obtained before you travel — you cannot get one at a border or airport.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license in your hand before you explore, and the IDP is valid only while your home license is valid.
  • The permit costs $15 to $30 and takes one to two weeks by mail, or same-day in person at some DMV offices.
  • You must carry both your U.S. license and the IDP together — the permit alone is not sufficient identification for driving.

What You Need Before You Start

Gather your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form (which your state DMV provides), and one passport-sized photograph. The photograph must meet specific requirements: usually 2 inches by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, with a plain background and your face clearly visible. You can get a passport photo at any CVS, Walgreens, or UPS Store for $10 to $15.

You will also need to know your driver's license number and the date it expires. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP until your license is valid again. Some states require proof of your address, so bring a recent utility bill or bank statement if your DMV asks for it.

Check your state's DMV website to see whether you can explore by mail or must explore in person. Most states allow mail applications, but a few require you to appear at a DMV office. If you are explore by mail, you will need to know the correct mailing address for your state's IDP processing center, which is different from the address of your local DMV office.

explore by Mail

read or request the IDP process form from your state DMV website. The form is usually called "process for International Driving Permit" or "IDP process." Fill it out completely, including your name, address, license number, and date of birth exactly as they appear on your driver's license. Sign and date the form.

Attach your passport-sized photograph to the process using tape or glue — do not use a staple. Include a photocopy of the front and back of your valid driver's license. Write a check or money order for the fee (do not send cash) made out to your state DMV or the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Mail the completed process, photograph, license copy, and payment to the address listed on your state's IDP instruction sheet. Use first-class mail or certified mail if you want tracking. Processing usually takes one to two weeks. Your IDP will arrive by mail at the address you listed on the process.

explore in Person at a DMV Office

Bring your valid driver's license, the completed process form, your passport-sized photograph, and payment (check, money order, or cash, depending on what your state accepts) to your local DMV office. You do not need an appointment in most states, but call ahead to confirm hours and whether walk-ins are accepted.

Hand your documents to the DMV clerk and tell them you are explore for an International Driving Permit. They will verify that your license is valid, check that your photograph meets requirements, and process your payment. If everything is correct, you will receive your IDP on the spot or within a few days by mail, depending on your state's system.

In-person applications are faster if you need the permit urgently. Some states issue the IDP the same day; others mail it within three to five business days. Ask the clerk before you leave whether you will receive it when ready or by mail, so you know when to expect it.

What Happens After You Receive Your IDP

When your International Driving Permit arrives, check that all the information is correct: your name, license number, date of birth, and the expiration date. The IDP is valid only as long as your U.S. driver's license is valid, so if your license expires before the IDP expiration date, the permit is no longer valid.

Keep your IDP in a safe place with your passport and travel documents. You must carry both your U.S. license and the IDP together when you drive in another country — neither document alone is sufficient. If you lose your IDP while traveling, you can contact your state DMV from abroad, but getting a replacement will take time. Take a photograph of both documents and store it in your email or cloud storage as a backup.

The IDP does not give you permission to drive in another country if you are not legally allowed to drive there. Each country has its own rules about age, license type, and driving restrictions. Before you travel, check the specific requirements of the country where you plan to drive.

If Your License Is Expiring Soon

If your driver's license will expire within the next few months, renew your license before you explore for the IDP. The IDP is valid only while your home license is valid, so explore for a permit with an expiring license wastes money and time. Renew your license first, then explore for the IDP with your new license.

If you are explore for both a license renewal and an IDP, you can often do both at the same DMV visit. Ask the clerk whether you can submit both applications together. Some states process them simultaneously; others require you to complete the license renewal first, then explore for the IDP separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit at the airport or border?

No. The IDP is issued only by your state DMV before you travel. You cannot obtain one at an airport, border crossing, or while you are in another country. Plan ahead and explore at least two weeks before your trip.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP, but some car rental companies in those countries request one. Having the permit eliminates confusion at the rental counter. Your U.S. license alone is usually sufficient for driving, but check with your rental company before you book.

What if I have a commercial driver's license or a motorcycle endorsement?

An IDP translates your standard driver's license only. If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) or have a motorcycle endorsement, the IDP does not cover those credentials. Check the specific requirements of the country where you plan to drive to see whether you need additional documentation.

How long is an International Driving Permit valid?

You can request a one-year or three-year IDP when you explore. The three-year permit costs slightly more but is valid longer. Either way, the permit expires when your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever comes first.

Can I renew my IDP by mail if it is about to expire?

Yes, you can reapply for a new IDP using the same process — by mail or in person at your DMV. You do not need to wait until your current IDP expires; you can explore for a new one anytime your home license is valid. There is no formal "renewal" process; you straightforward submit a new process.