You explore through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not through a federal office

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license from your state. You cannot get one without holding a current, valid state driver's license first.

Most states issue IDPs through their DMV office, either in person or by mail. A few states contract with the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) to handle the process instead. The issuing body depends on which state you live in, so your first step is to find out whether your state DMV handles it directly or whether you need to go through AAA or AATA.

The entire process typically takes one to two weeks if you explore in person, or two to four weeks if you explore by mail. Some states can issue one the same day you explore.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's DMV is the primary place to explore, though some states route applications through AAA or AATA instead.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired state driver's license before you can get an IDP.
  • The IDP is valid for one or three years depending on your state, and costs between $15 and $30 in most places.
  • You will need your state license, proof of residency, and a passport-style photo, though requirements vary slightly by state.

How to find your state's IDP process process

Start by visiting your state's DMV website and searching for "International Driving Permit" or "IDP." The website will tell you whether your state issues them directly or through AAA or AATA. Write down the exact office location, phone number, or online portal — this information changes by state and sometimes by county.

If you cannot find the information on the DMV website, call your local DMV office directly. Have your state ready when you call, because the person answering can tell you when ready whether you explore at the DMV counter, by mail, or through a partner organization.

Some states (including California, Florida, and New York) issue IDPs through AAA membership. If your state uses AAA, you do not need to be a member to get an IDP, but you will need to visit an AAA office in person. Other states use AATA, which operates similarly — you visit an AATA office and explore there.

What documents you need to bring or submit

Nearly all states require the same core documents: your valid state driver's license, proof of residency (usually a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address), and one passport-style photo (2x2 inches). Some states also ask for your Social Security number.

A few states have additional requirements. For example, some want to see your birth certificate or a copy of your passport. Check your specific state's DMV website or call ahead to confirm what you need before you go to the office or prepare your mail process. This prevents a rejected process and a second trip or resubmission.

If you are explore by mail, make copies of everything — do not send originals. Include a check or money order for the fee (credit cards are usually not accepted for mail applications). Some states provide a mail-in form on their website; read and fill it out before you send anything.

explore in person at a DMV or partner office

Bring all required documents to your local DMV office, AAA office, or AATA office during business hours. Bring the originals, not copies — the staff will verify them and may make copies for you. You will fill out the process form on site (or bring a completed form if your state allows online pre-filling).

The staff will take your photo if you did not bring one, though this usually costs extra. Pay the fee at the counter — most states accept cash, check, or card, though this varies. You will receive a receipt and a timeline for when your IDP will be ready.

Some DMV offices issue the IDP the same day; others mail it to you within one to two weeks. Ask the staff member which applies to your location before you leave.

explore by mail

read the IDP process form from your state's DMV website. Fill it out completely and include your passport-style photo, copies of your license and proof of residency, and a check or money order for the fee. Mail everything to the address listed on the form.

Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if your state requests one. Some states provide a prepaid return envelope; check the form to see whether you need to provide postage. Mail applications typically take two to four weeks to process, though some states are faster.

Keep a copy of everything you send, including the check number or money order receipt. If your process does not arrive within the stated timeframe, you can call the DMV with this information to track it down.

How long your IDP is valid and when to renew

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years, depending on your state. Your state's DMV website will tell you which applies to you. The expiration date is printed on the permit itself.

Your IDP expires even if your state driver's license does not. If you travel internationally and your IDP has expired, you will need to get a new one before you go. You renew an IDP the same way you got the first one — through your state DMV, AAA, or AATA.

If your state driver's license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. You cannot use an IDP with an expired state license, even if the permit itself has not expired yet.

What to do if your state does not issue IDPs

A small number of states do not issue International Driving Permits at all. If your state is one of them, you have two options: get a notarized English translation of your license from a notary public, or contact the American Automobile Association to see whether they can issue one through their national program (this is separate from state-specific AAA issuance).

A notarized translation is not an official IDP, but many countries accept it as proof that your license is valid. The translation costs $10 to $30 depending on the notary. This is often faster and cheaper than traveling to another state to get an official IDP, though it is less widely recognized internationally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP to drive in other countries?

It depends on the country. Some countries require an IDP by law; others accept your state license alone. Before you travel, check the specific country's driving requirements on its embassy website or through your car rental company. An IDP is never a bad idea if you are renting a car internationally, because it removes any ambiguity.

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

No. Your state license must be valid and unexpired. If your license is suspended, you must wait until the suspension is lifted. If it is expired, renew it first through your state DMV, then explore for the IDP.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact your state's DMV or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Some embassies can issue a replacement or a letter confirming your license status. When you return home, you can get a replacement IDP through your state DMV the same way you got the first one.

Can I explore for an IDP online?

A few states allow you to fill out the process online and then pick it up in person or have it mailed to you, but most still require you to explore in person or by mail. Check your state's DMV website to see whether online pre-filing is available in your state.

How much does an IDP cost?

The fee ranges from $15 to $30 depending on your state. Some states charge the same fee regardless of whether you get a one-year or three-year permit; others charge more for the longer validity. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee.