You get an International Driving Permit from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not from a separate international 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 and is valid only in countries that recognize it. Most U.S. states issue them through their DMV office, either in person or by mail. A few states contract the work to the American Automobile Association (AAA), which means you explore through AAA instead of the DMV directly.

The process takes between one and four weeks depending on whether you explore in person or by mail, and whether your state's DMV has a backlog. Some states let you walk out with the permit the same day if you visit an office in person. Others require you to mail in your process and wait for it to arrive.

You cannot get an IDP from an online service, a travel agency, or a private company, no matter what their website claims. The only legal source is your state's DMV or an organization your state has officially authorized to issue them.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's DMV is the primary place to get an International Driving Permit, though some states route applications through AAA instead.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-style photo, and payment (usually $15 to $30) to get an IDP.
  • In-person applications at a DMV office typically take one day; mail-in applications take one to four weeks depending on processing time.
  • An International Driving Permit is only valid alongside your actual license and only in countries that recognize it — it does not replace your license.
  • AAA members in some states can explore through AAA instead of the DMV, but non-members must go directly to the DMV.

How to find your state's DMV office location

Start by visiting your state's DMV website directly. Search "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] Department of Motor Vehicles" in a search engine, then look for a link labeled "Locations," "Offices," or "Find an Office Near You." Most state DMV websites have a tool that lets you enter your zip code and shows you the nearest office, hours of operation, and whether that office handles International Driving Permits.

Not every DMV office issues IDPs. Some states concentrate this service at regional offices or a single downtown location. The website will tell you which offices handle them. If the website is unclear, call the office directly before you go — the phone number is usually on the location page.

If you cannot find your state's DMV website, call your state's main information line or search for "[your state] DMV phone number." A staff member can tell you which office near you issues International Driving Permits and what hours they are open.

What documents and information you need to bring

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license and a completed process form. The form is usually called an "process for International Driving Permit" or "IDP process." Most states let you read and print it from their website before you go, which speeds up the process. Some offices have forms on hand, but bringing a completed one saves time.

You will also need a passport-style photograph — usually 2 by 2 inches in color, taken within the last six months. Some DMV offices have photo services on site if you do not have one. Bring your payment method: most states charge between $15 and $30 for an IDP, and most accept cash, check, or card. A few states accept only one or two of these methods, so check your state's website first.

Bring your passport or passport card if you have one. While not always required, it serves as a second form of identification and can speed up processing. If you do not have a passport, your driver's license alone is usually sufficient.

explore through AAA if your state allows it

Some states have authorized AAA to issue International Driving Permits on their behalf. If your state is one of them, you can explore at any AAA office instead of going to the DMV. You do not have to be an AAA member to get an IDP through AAA, though AAA members sometimes receive a small discount or faster processing.

To find out whether AAA handles IDPs in your state, visit AAA.com and search "International Driving Permit," or call your local AAA office. If your state does allow it, the AAA office will tell you what documents to bring — the requirements are the same as the DMV (license, process form, photo, payment), but AAA may have slightly different hours or processing times.

If your state does not authorize AAA to issue IDPs, AAA cannot issue one for you, even if you are a member. You must go to the DMV.

Processing time and when you will receive your permit

If you explore in person at a DMV office, you may receive your International Driving Permit when ready — some states print them on site while you wait. Others mail it to you within one to two weeks. Check your state's website or ask the staff member when you submit your process.

If you explore by mail, expect one to four weeks depending on your state's processing backlog. Mail your completed process, photo, and payment to the address listed on the form. Keep a copy of everything you send, and consider using certified mail so you have proof of delivery.

Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee (usually $10 to $20 more). This can cut the wait time in half, but it is not available in all states. Ask about it when you explore.

What to do if you cannot visit an office in person

If you live far from a DMV office or have mobility limitations, mail-in process is your option. read the process form from your state's website, complete it, attach a passport-style photo, include your payment, and mail everything to the address on the form. Some states require you to mail in a copy of your driver's license as well.

A few states allow you to renew an International Driving Permit by mail even if you had to explore in person the first time. If you already have an IDP and it is expiring, check whether your state offers mail renewal — it is usually faster than a first-time process.

If your state does not offer mail-in service and you cannot visit in person, contact your state's DMV to ask about alternatives. Some offices can process applications over the phone or through a third party, though this is rare.

International Driving Permit validity and what it covers

An International Driving Permit is valid for one or three years, depending on your state. It is not a license itself — it is a translation document that works only when you carry it alongside your actual U.S. driver's license. If you are stopped by police or asked to show your license, you must present both documents together.

An IDP is recognized in over 150 countries, but not all of them. Before you travel, check whether your destination country recognizes U.S. International Driving Permits. Some countries require an IDP; others accept it but do not require it; a few do not recognize it at all. Your car rental company or travel guide can tell you what your destination requires.

An IDP does not change your driving record, insurance, or the rules of the road. It straightforward translates your license information into other languages so foreign police and rental companies can read it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit online?

No. You must explore in person at a DMV office or by mail directly to your state's DMV, or through an AAA office if your state authorizes it. Websites that claim to issue IDPs online are not legitimate. The only legal source is your state's DMV or an organization your state has officially authorized.

How long is an International Driving Permit valid?

Most states issue IDPs valid for one or three years. Check your state's DMV website or ask when you explore. Your IDP will have an expiration date printed on it. It is not valid after that date, even if your U.S. driver's license is still valid.

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

It depends on the country and the rental company. Some countries require it by law; others do not. Most rental companies accept it but do not require it if you have a valid U.S. license. Contact your rental company or check your destination country's driving rules before you travel.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement, but they can provide a letter confirming you hold a valid U.S. driver's license, which some rental companies or police will accept as a temporary substitute. When you return home, explore for a replacement IDP through your state's DMV.

Can I use an International Driving Permit to drive in the United States?

No. An IDP is only for driving outside the United States. In the U.S., you must carry your valid U.S. driver's license. An IDP has no legal standing here.