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

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 it is issued by the same state agency that issued your driver's license. You cannot order one online or through a private company. You must visit a DMV office in person, bring your current license and proof of identity, and pay a fee that ranges from $15 to $30 depending on your state.

The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which type you request. Most countries that recognize IDPs require you to carry both your IDP and your original license together when driving. Some rental car companies and border officials will accept an IDP in place of an official translation, which is why many travelers get one before international trips.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles is the only place that issues an International Driving Permit — private websites and services cannot issue one.
  • You must visit a DMV office in person with your current driver's license and a government-issued ID; you cannot order by mail or online.
  • The fee is typically between $15 and $30, and the permit is valid for either one or three years depending on the type you choose.
  • An IDP is only valid when carried together with your original driver's license, and not all countries recognize it.

What you need to bring to the DMV

Bring your current, valid driver's license and a government-issued photo ID. Most DMVs accept a passport, military ID, or state ID card. Some states also accept a certified birth certificate or Social Security card as secondary proof of identity, but the rules vary — call your local DMV before you go to confirm what they require.

You do not need to bring proof of travel plans, a letter from your employer, or any other documentation. The DMV issues an IDP based solely on the fact that you hold a valid license. If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored.

How to find your state's DMV office

Search online for "[your state] Department of Motor Vehicles International Driving Permit" or visit your state's DMV website directly. Most state DMV sites have a section for IDPs that lists the fee, required documents, and which offices issue them. Some states issue IDPs at all locations; others limit them to certain regional offices.

Call ahead before you visit. Many DMVs require you to make an appointment for an IDP, and some have specific hours when they issue them. A few states allow you to request an IDP by mail if you cannot visit in person, though this is less common and takes longer.

The difference between a one-year and three-year permit

A one-year IDP costs less but expires sooner. A three-year IDP costs more upfront but lasts longer and is useful if you travel internationally more than once. The three-year permit is the same document — it straightforward has a later expiration date printed on it. Choose based on how often you expect to drive abroad in the next few years.

If you renew your driver's license before your IDP expires, your IDP remains valid until its printed expiration date. You do not need to get a new IDP when you renew your license, though some travelers choose to do so to keep both documents on the same schedule.

Which countries recognize an International Driving Permit

Most countries in Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa recognize an IDP. However, not every country does, and recognition rules change. Before you travel, check the government website of the country you are visiting or contact its embassy or consulate to confirm whether an IDP is accepted there.

Some countries require an IDP plus an official translation of your license into their language. Others accept an IDP alone. A few countries do not recognize IDPs at all and require only your original license. Rental car companies sometimes have their own rules that are stricter than the country's law, so confirm with the rental company when you book.

What an IDP does not do

An IDP does not change your driving record, insurance status, or legal rights. It does not override traffic laws or permit you to drive in a country where you would otherwise be prohibited. It does not replace a license if yours is suspended or revoked. It does not give you permission to work as a driver in another country.

An IDP is purely a translation document. If you are stopped by police in another country, they will want to see both your IDP and your original license. If your original license is invalid, your IDP is also invalid, even if the IDP itself has not expired.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP. Once your license is restored or renewed, you can explore for an IDP at that time.

Do I need an IDP to rent a car in Canada or Mexico?

Most rental car companies in Canada and Mexico accept a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some companies recommend or require an IDP, and some countries' traffic laws technically require one. Check with your rental company and the country's government website before you travel to be certain.

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

If you visit the DMV in person, you usually receive the permit the same day or within a few days. If you request one by mail, it typically takes one to two weeks. Call your local DMV to confirm their processing time.

What if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP is no longer valid. If you are abroad when yours expires, you can still drive using your original license alone in most countries, but check the laws of the country you are in. When you return home, you can get a new IDP from your DMV.

Can I order an International Driving Permit online?

No. Only your state's DMV can issue an IDP. Websites that claim to issue IDPs online are not legitimate. You must visit a DMV office in person or request one by mail through your state's official DMV.