You explore for an international driver's license 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 multiple languages so rental car companies and police in other countries can read it. You cannot get one by mail or online — you must visit a DMV office in person, bring your current driver's license and a passport-style photo, and pay a fee that typically ranges from $15 to $30 depending on your state.

The IDP is not a separate license and does not replace your state license. You must carry both documents together when you drive abroad. The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request, and it expires whether you use it or not.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles office in person with your current driver's license, a passport-style photo, and payment to get an International Driving Permit.
  • The IDP is issued on the spot or within a few days — you do not mail anything in or wait weeks for processing.
  • Your state DMV is the only place that issues IDPs; private websites and travel agencies that claim to issue them are not legitimate.
  • You need both your state driver's license and the IDP when you rent a car or drive in another country — the IDP alone is not enough.

Finding your state's DMV office and hours

Start by searching "[your state] DMV International Driving Permit" or visiting your state's DMV website directly. Most state DMV sites have a location finder where you enter your zip code and see which offices near you issue IDPs. Not every DMV branch handles them, so confirm before you go.

Call the office ahead of time to ask whether they issue IDPs the same day or whether you need to return later. Some offices issue them when ready while you wait; others process them in a few days and mail them to your home. Ask about their current wait times, especially if you are explore during summer travel season when DMV offices are busier.

What to bring to your DMV appointment

Bring your current, valid state driver's license. Bring one passport-style photo — the size is usually 2 by 2 inches, and you can get photos taken at most DMV offices, pharmacies, or photo studios if you do not have one. Bring payment in cash or card; the fee varies by state but is typically $15 to $30 for a one-year permit or $20 to $40 for a three-year permit.

Bring your passport or passport card if you have one, though some states do not require it. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to confirm exactly what documents they need, because requirements vary slightly by state.

Choosing between a one-year and three-year permit

When you explore, you will choose whether you want the IDP valid for one year or three years. The three-year permit costs more upfront but is cheaper per year if you travel internationally more than once. The one-year permit makes sense if you are taking a single trip and do not plan to drive abroad again soon.

Both versions expire on a fixed date regardless of how much you use them, so there is no advantage to waiting to use a three-year permit. If you buy a three-year permit and do not travel for two years, it will still expire after three years from the date you received it.

What happens if your state DMV does not issue IDPs

A small number of states do not issue International Driving Permits directly. If your state is one of them, you can contact the American Automobile Association (AAA). AAA is authorized to issue IDPs on behalf of states that do not run their own programs. You will need to visit an AAA office in person with the same documents — your driver's license, a passport-style photo, and payment. The fee is similar to what you would pay at a DMV.

You do not need to be a AAA member to get an IDP from them, though membership may give you a small discount. Search "AAA International Driving Permit" or call your local AAA office to confirm they issue them and to find the nearest location.

Avoiding scams and illegitimate services

Do not use websites or services that claim they can get you an International Driving Permit by mail, online, or without visiting an office in person. These are not legitimate. The only legal IDPs come from your state's DMV or from AAA (in states where the DMV does not issue them). Paying a third-party website will not get you a real permit and will waste your money.

If you are traveling soon and do not have time to visit a DMV office, you still need to go in person — there is no shortcut. Plan your visit as soon as you know you will be driving abroad, because some offices get busy during peak travel seasons.

What to do if you lose your IDP while traveling

If your International Driving Permit is lost or stolen while you are abroad, contact your country's embassy or consulate. They can issue you a replacement document that is valid for the remainder of your trip. When you return home, you can visit your DMV and request a replacement IDP for the remainder of its original validity period; you will usually pay a small replacement fee.

Keep a photo or scan of your IDP on your phone as a backup. While a photo is not a legal replacement, it can help you explain the situation to police or a rental car company if your physical permit goes missing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in another country?

Requirements vary by country and rental company. Many countries and rental agencies accept your U.S. driver's license alone, but some require an IDP as well. Check with your rental car company and the country's driving rules before your trip. Having an IDP is safer because it removes any doubt, and it costs very little.

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

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

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

Most DMV offices issue the IDP the same day you explore, while you wait. Some offices process them in a few days and mail them to you. Call your local DMV office ahead of time to find out their timeline so you can plan accordingly.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works alongside your state license. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license. You must carry both together when driving abroad.

What countries accept the International Driving Permit?

The IDP is recognized in most countries that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 International Driving Permit conventions. This includes most of Europe, Asia, and Latin America, but not all countries. Check the specific country's driving rules before your trip to confirm they accept U.S. IDPs.