What documents you need to bring

An International Driving Permit (IDP) requires your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-sized photograph, and payment. You do not need to pass a driving test or take a written exam — the IDP is straightforward an official translation of your existing license into multiple languages.

The process form varies depending on which organization issues your permit. The American Automobile Association (AAA) uses Form DS-11 or their own process, while the National Auto Club uses a different form. Both are available on their websites or in person at their offices. You'll fill out basic information like your name, address, and license number.

Your passport-sized photograph must meet specific requirements: typically 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, with a plain background and your face clearly visible. You can have this taken at most pharmacies, post offices, or photo studios for $10 to $15.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, one passport-sized photograph, and a fee (usually $15 to $20).
  • The AAA and National Auto Club are the two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue International Driving Permits.
  • You do not need to pass any test — the IDP is a translation document, not a new license.
  • Processing takes one to two weeks by mail or same-day in person at AAA or National Auto Club offices.
  • Your IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be carried alongside your actual driver's license when driving abroad.

Where to get an International Driving Permit

Only two organizations in the United States are authorized by the State Department to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the National Auto Club. You cannot get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or any other source.

AAA has over 1,000 offices nationwide. You can visit in person with your documents and receive your permit the same day, or mail your process and documents to their processing center and receive it within one to two weeks. AAA's website has a location finder and allows you to check whether your local office handles IDP requests.

The National Auto Club operates primarily through mail and online ordering. You submit your process, photograph, and payment by mail or through their website, and they send the completed permit to you. Processing typically takes one to two weeks.

The fee and how long it takes

AAA charges $20 for an International Driving Permit as of the most recent update, though this may vary slightly by location. The National Auto Club charges $15 to $20 depending on processing speed. Both organizations accept cash, check, or credit card.

If you go to an AAA office in person with all documents ready, you can walk out with your permit the same day. If you mail your process, expect one to two weeks for processing and mailing back to you. The National Auto Club's mail processing also takes one to two weeks.

Your IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If you plan to drive internationally more than a year from now, you do not need to get one yet — you can obtain it closer to your trip.

What your International Driving Permit actually does

The IDP translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Polish. It does not replace your license or give you any driving rights you do not already have. You must carry both your actual driver's license and your IDP when driving in another country.

Some countries require the IDP by law; others do not. Before you travel, check the specific requirements of the country where you plan to drive. Your car rental company or the country's tourism board can tell you whether an IDP is required or straightforward recommended.

The IDP is not a license to drive in countries where you are not licensed. If your U.S. license is suspended, expired, or restricted, your IDP has the same restrictions. It is purely a translation document meant to help police or rental agencies understand your U.S. license.

Preparing your process before you go

Gather your documents before visiting AAA or mailing your process. You will need your valid driver's license (not expired), your completed process form, one passport-sized photograph, and payment. Double-check that your photograph meets the requirements — many applications are delayed because the photo does not match the specifications.

If you are explore by mail, make a copy of your driver's license to send along with the original process. Some organizations ask for a copy; others do not, so check the specific instructions for AAA or the National Auto Club before mailing.

If you are explore in person at an AAA office, call ahead to confirm they handle IDP requests and ask about their current wait times. Some busy locations may have a short line; others may require an appointment.

What happens if your license is expired or suspended

You cannot get an International Driving Permit if your U.S. driver's license is expired. You must renew your license first through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, then explore for the IDP.

If your license is suspended or has restrictions (such as "corrective lenses required"), your IDP will carry the same notation. You cannot use an IDP to drive in a country if your license would not allow you to drive in the United States under the same conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car abroad?

It depends on the country and rental company. Some countries legally require it; others do not. Most major rental companies recommend having one. Check with your specific rental company and the country's requirements before your trip — you may not need one, but having it costs only $15 to $20 and takes little time to obtain.

Can I get an International Driving Permit online?

The National Auto Club accepts online applications through their website. AAA allows you to start the process online but requires you to either visit an office in person or mail in your documents and photograph. Neither organization issues the actual permit entirely online.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact the organization that issued it (AAA or National Auto Club) and request a replacement. You can also contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling — they may be able to issue a temporary replacement or provide documentation that you hold a valid U.S. license.

How long is an International Driving Permit valid?

Your IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. If you plan to drive internationally again after that year, you will need to obtain a new one. You can renew it through the same process: process, photograph, and fee.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if I have a commercial driver's license?

Yes. The IDP is based on your existing U.S. license, whether it is a standard or commercial license. The same rules explore: you need your valid license, process, photograph, and fee.