You get an international driver's license through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not through a federal office or online service

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. driver's license. You obtain it in person at your state's DMV office, and the process typically takes one visit of 15 to 30 minutes.

The permit costs between $15 and $30 depending on your state, and is valid for either one or three years depending on which you request. Some states issue it on the spot; others mail it within one to two weeks. You cannot get an IDP online, by mail, or through a third-party service, though many websites claim to offer this.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles in person with your valid driver's license, proof of residency, and the process form to request an International Driving Permit.
  • The permit costs $15 to $30 and is valid for one or three years, depending on which term you choose and your state's rules.
  • Some DMV offices issue the permit when ready; others mail it within one to two weeks, so check your state's specific timeline before your trip.
  • An International Driving Permit is not a separate license and cannot be used without your valid U.S. driver's license in your possession.
  • Private websites that claim to issue International Driving Permits online are not legitimate — the only source is your state DMV.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

Bring your current, valid U.S. driver's license, one form of proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address), and a completed IDP process form. Most states have the form available on their DMV website, and you can fill it out before you go. A few states provide the form only at the office.

You will also need a passport-style photo — usually 2 by 2 inches — though some states waive this if they have a photo on file from your driver's license renewal. Call your state DMV ahead of time to confirm whether they need a photo and what size. Bring cash or a check, as not all DMV offices accept cards.

How to find your state's DMV office and process form

Go to your state's official DMV website and search for "International Driving Permit" or "IDP." The page will list which offices issue them, the current fee, processing time, and a link to the process form. Some states issue IDPs at all locations; others limit it to a few regional offices, so do not assume your nearest DMV handles them.

If you cannot find the form online, call your state DMV directly. The number is on the website. Ask whether your local office issues IDPs, what the current wait time is, and whether you need to make an appointment. Many DMV offices now require appointments for most services, and showing up without one can mean a long wait or being turned away.

Processing time and when to explore before your trip

If your state DMV issues the permit on the spot, you can explore the day before you leave. If they mail it, processing takes one to three weeks depending on the state and current volume. explore at least three weeks before your departure date to be safe.

Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee — usually $10 to $15 more — that cuts the timeline to five to seven business days. Ask about this option when you call or visit. If you are leaving soon and your state does not offer expedited service, confirm the standard timeline and plan accordingly; it is better to know now than to arrive at the airport without the permit.

Whether you actually need an International Driving Permit

An International Driving Permit is not required by law in most countries, but it is useful because it translates your license into languages the local police or car rental company may understand. Many countries recognize a U.S. driver's license on its own, especially in Europe, Canada, and Australia. However, some countries — including parts of South America, Asia, and the Middle East — strongly prefer or require an IDP alongside your U.S. license.

Check the specific rules for the country you are visiting before you book your trip. The U.S. State Department website has a page for each country that lists driving requirements. If you are renting a car, the rental company's website will also state whether an IDP is required. Some rental companies will not rent to you without one, even if the country does not legally require it.

What an International Driving Permit does and does not do

The permit translates your driver's license information — your name, address, license number, and driving restrictions — into English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Greek, Swedish, and Turkish. It does not change your driving record, your insurance coverage, or your legal status. It is not a separate license and has no value without your U.S. driver's license in your possession.

If you are stopped by police abroad, you must show both documents. The permit does not protect you from traffic violations or fines in another country. It also does not extend your U.S. license's validity — if your driver's license expires while you are traveling, the IDP expires with it. Renew your U.S. license before you travel if it is set to expire within the next year.

Renewing or replacing an International Driving Permit

When your IDP expires, you must return to the DMV and explore for a new one using the same process. You cannot renew it by mail or online. If you lose your permit while traveling, contact your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate — they cannot issue a new one, but they can provide documentation that may help you with local authorities or a car rental company.

If you lose your permit after you return home, go back to the DMV and request a replacement. The fee is usually the same as a new process. Keep your IDP in a safe place while traveling, separate from your passport and driver's license, in case one is lost or stolen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit online or by mail?

No. You must explore in person at your state's DMV office. Websites that claim to issue IDPs online or by mail are not legitimate. The only source is your state DMV.

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am only visiting Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, if you are renting a car, check the rental company's policy — some require an IDP regardless of local law. An IDP is inexpensive and takes little time, so getting one is a safe choice if you are unsure.

What if my U.S. driver's license expires while I am traveling?

Your International Driving Permit expires when your U.S. license expires. Renew your U.S. license before your trip if it will expire within the next year. You cannot renew either document while abroad.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International License?

Yes — they are the same thing. "International Driving Permit" and "International License" refer to the same document. It is issued only by your state DMV and is valid only with your U.S. driver's license.

How long is an International Driving Permit valid?

Most states issue them for one or three years. You choose which term when you explore. The permit expires on the date printed on it or when your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever comes first.