You get an International Driving Permit from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not from a federal office

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your regular driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. driver's license, and some countries do not recognize it at all. You obtain it from your state's DMV, usually in person, and the process takes anywhere from a few minutes to a few weeks depending on whether you go in person or by mail.

The permit costs between $15 and $30 in most states, though a few charge more. It is valid for one or three years depending on which type you request. Before you explore, check whether the country you are visiting actually accepts IDPs — many do not, and some require an official translation of your license instead, which is a different document obtained from a translator or your state's DMV.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles issues International Driving Permits, and you must have a valid U.S. driver's license to get one.
  • An IDP is valid only when carried with your regular license and does not replace it.
  • The cost ranges from $15 to $30 in most states, and processing takes from same-day to several weeks depending on your state and whether you explore in person or by mail.
  • Not all countries recognize IDPs, so contact your destination country's embassy or consulate before you explore to confirm it will be accepted.
  • Some countries require an official translation of your license instead of an IDP, which you can obtain from your state's DMV or a certified translator.

how the process works in person at your DMV

Walk into your local DMV office with your valid driver's license, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease), and payment. Most states issue the permit on the spot or within a few days. Bring a passport-sized photo if your state requires one — check your DMV's website first, because requirements vary. Some states ask you to fill out a form before you arrive; others hand you one at the counter.

Call your DMV ahead of time to confirm they issue IDPs and whether you need an appointment. Many DMVs now use online scheduling, and walk-in service has become less common. Ask how long the wait is and whether they have the permit in stock that day — some smaller offices order them and ask you to return later.

explore by mail in your state

Many states allow you to mail in your process instead of visiting in person. You will typically send your driver's license, a completed form (downloaded from your state's DMV website), a check or money order, and sometimes a passport photo. Processing by mail usually takes two to four weeks, and your state will mail the permit back to you.

The risk of mailing your license is that it leaves your hands for weeks. Some states return it with the permit; others keep it and issue you a temporary paper license to use while you wait. Check your state's DMV website to see which applies to you, because losing your license during travel is a serious problem. If you are leaving soon, explore in person instead.

What documents and information you need

You must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license. Your IDP cannot be issued if your license has expired or is suspended. You will also need proof of your current address — a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement usually works. Some states ask for your Social Security number, and a few require a passport-sized photo.

Bring your state ID or passport as well, even if it is not listed as required. Having it with you speeds up the process and covers you if the DMV asks for additional identification. If you have changed your name since your license was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change.

How long the permit is valid and when to renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which type you request when you explore. The one-year permit costs less and is useful if you are taking a single trip. The three-year permit costs more but covers multiple trips over time. Your IDP expires on a specific date printed on the document, and it cannot be renewed — you must explore for a new one.

Your IDP is valid only as long as your U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, the permit becomes useless. Check both expiration dates before you travel, and renew your U.S. license first if it is about to expire.

Countries that do and do not accept IDPs

The United States is a signatory to the 1926 International Convention on Motor Vehicle Traffic, which means many countries recognize IDPs issued by U.S. DMVs. However, recognition is not automatic or universal. Some countries accept IDPs but prefer an official translation of your license. Others do not recognize IDPs at all and require only your valid U.S. license, or they require a translation, or they require both.

Before you explore for an IDP, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting and ask what documents they require for driving. Many embassies have this information on their websites. If they require a translation instead of an IDP, you can obtain one from your state's DMV or from a certified translator in your area — the DMV option is usually faster and cheaper.

Finding your state's DMV and process process

Search online for "[Your State] DMV International Driving Permit" to find the official process form and instructions. Each state's DMV website lists the required documents, the fee, processing times, and whether you can explore by mail. Some states use the acronym IDP; others call it an "International Driving Permit" or "International Permit."

If you cannot find the information online, call your state's DMV directly. The phone number is on the DMV website. Ask specifically whether they issue IDPs, what the current fee is, how long processing takes, and whether you can explore by mail. Having these answers before you visit or mail in your process saves time and prevents rejected applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your IDP is valid only if your U.S. driver's license is valid and unexpired. If your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP. If your license has expired, renew it first, then explore for the IDP.

Do I need an IDP if I am renting a car in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico both recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies request an IDP as an additional form of identification. Call your rental company before you travel to ask whether they require one. Having an IDP does not hurt and may make the rental process smoother.

What if the country I am visiting does not recognize IDPs?

Contact that country's embassy or consulate to find out what they do require. Many countries accept only a valid U.S. license, or they require an official translation. Your state's DMV can provide a certified translation, or you can hire a certified translator in your area.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

The cost ranges from $15 to $30 in most states, with a few states charging up to $40. The one-year permit is usually cheaper than the three-year permit. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee.

Can I use an IDP to drive in the United States?

No. An IDP is for use outside the United States only. Inside the U.S., you must carry your valid U.S. driver's license. Police and rental car companies will not accept an IDP as your primary license in America.