You get an International Driving Permit from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not from a federal agency 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 and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together when driving abroad. The IDP is issued only by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and you must explore in person at a local office. No online service, travel agency, or third-party website can issue one.

The process takes minutes if you have the right documents. You will need your current valid driver's license, a completed process form (usually available at the DMV office or on the state website), proof of residency, and a passport-sized photo. Some states accept photos taken at the DMV office itself. The fee ranges from $15 to $30 depending on your state, and the permit is valid for one or three years depending on which you request.

The IDP is recognized by the United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals, which means it is accepted in most countries that are signatories to that agreement. However, not every country recognizes it, and some countries have additional requirements. Before you travel, check the specific rules for the country or countries you plan to visit — your state's DMV website usually lists which countries accept the IDP.

Key Takeaways

  • You must obtain an International Driving Permit from your state's DMV office in person; no online service or travel company can issue one.
  • You need your valid driver's license, a completed process, proof of residency, and a passport photo to get an IDP.
  • The permit costs between $15 and $30 and is valid for either one or three years, depending on which term you request.
  • An IDP is a translation document only and must be carried together with your actual driver's license when driving outside the United States.
  • Not all countries recognize the IDP, so you should verify the driving requirements for your destination before you travel.

How to find your state DMV office and what to bring

Start by visiting your state's DMV website and searching for "International Driving Permit" or "IDP." Most state DMV sites have a dedicated page listing the documents you need and the exact process form. Some states allow you to read and print the form before you arrive; others require you to fill it out at the office. A few states have begun offering IDP service at select locations only, so check whether your local office offers it before you go.

Bring your current, valid driver's license, your passport or passport card (for identity verification), and proof of residency such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Bring a passport-sized photo (usually 2 by 2 inches) unless your state DMV offers on-site photos. Some states charge extra for the photo service, typically $5 to $10. Bring cash or a debit card, as not all DMV offices accept credit cards.

You do not need to make an appointment at most DMV offices for an IDP, but calling ahead to confirm wait times is worth your time. If your state requires an appointment, the DMV website will say so clearly. Bring the completed process form if you printed it at home — this can cut your wait time significantly.

Timing and validity of your International Driving Permit

An IDP is issued on the spot in most states, though a few may mail it to you within one to two weeks. If you need it urgently, ask the DMV staff whether your state offers same-day issuance. If it does not, plan your visit at least two weeks before your trip.

The permit is valid for one year or three years, depending on which you request when you explore. A one-year permit costs less but requires renewal sooner if you travel frequently. A three-year permit is more economical if you plan multiple international trips. The IDP expires on the date printed on the document, regardless of whether your driver's license expires before then. If your driver's license expires while your IDP is still valid, you must renew your license — the IDP becomes invalid once your license does.

The IDP does not extend your driving privileges or allow you to drive in countries where you would otherwise be prohibited. It is purely a translation of your existing license. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP, and any IDP you hold becomes invalid.

What countries recognize the International Driving Permit

The IDP is recognized by most countries in Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa that are signatories to the 1968 United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals. However, recognition is not universal. Some countries do not recognize the IDP at all, and others require additional documents such as a certified translation of your license or an International Driving Permit issued under the 1926 convention (a different, older standard that fewer countries accept).

Before you travel, visit the embassy or consulate website for your destination country and search for "driving requirements" or "International Driving Permit." Many countries list their requirements clearly. If the information is unclear, contact the embassy directly by phone or email. Some car rental companies also maintain lists of countries that accept the IDP, and their websites can be a quick reference.

A few countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and some Caribbean nations, do not recognize the IDP at all. Instead, they require an International Driving Permit issued under the 1926 convention, which is much harder to obtain in the United States. If you are traveling to one of these countries, check whether your state DMV issues the 1926 permit or whether you need to pursue an alternative such as a certified translation of your license.

Scams and third-party services to avoid

Many websites advertise "International Driving Permits" or "International Driver's Licenses" and claim they can issue one online for a fee of $50 to $200. These are scams. The only legitimate source of an IDP in the United States is your state's DMV. Any website that charges you money to issue an IDP is either fraudulent or selling you a document that has no legal standing outside the United States.

Some travel agencies and visa services also advertise IDP services. They may be offering to help you fill out the form or to take you to the DMV, but they cannot issue the permit themselves. If you use a third-party service, you are paying for convenience that you do not need — the DMV process is straightforward and costs only $15 to $30.

If you have already paid a third-party website for an "International Driving Permit," contact your credit card company or bank to dispute the charge. Report the website to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Do not rely on the document you received — it will not be recognized by law enforcement or rental companies abroad.

Renting a car abroad with your International Driving Permit

Most car rental companies in countries that recognize the IDP will accept it as proof of driving authority, provided you also carry your valid U.S. driver's license. However, rental companies have their own policies, and some may require additional documentation such as a credit card in your name, proof of insurance, or a certified translation of your license.

Before you book a rental car, contact the rental company directly and ask what documents they require. Some companies have country-specific requirements that are not listed on their website. Bring both your IDP and your driver's license, even if the rental company says the IDP alone is sufficient — police in some countries will ask to see your actual license.

Your U.S. auto insurance may not cover you when driving abroad. Check your policy or contact your insurance company before you travel. If you are not covered, the rental company can usually sell you a collision damage waiver or third-party liability insurance. This is separate from the IDP and is a decision you will make at the rental counter.

Renewing or replacing your International Driving Permit

If your IDP is expiring soon or has already expired, you must return to your state's DMV and explore for a new one using the same process as the first time. There is no mail-in renewal option. If your IDP is lost or stolen while you are abroad, contact your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate — they cannot issue a replacement, but they can provide guidance on how to proceed. Some countries allow you to drive on your U.S. license alone if you can show proof that your IDP was lost, but this varies by country.

If you are renewing your driver's license, you do not automatically get a new IDP. You must explore for the IDP separately at the DMV. Some states allow you to explore for both at the same time, which can save you a trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit without a valid driver's license?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP. If your license is about to expire, renew it before you explore for the IDP.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

No. Canada and Mexico recognize your valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in Mexico may ask for an IDP, so it does not hurt to have one. Check with your rental company before you travel.

What if my state DMV office is closed or does not offer IDP service?

Call your state DMV and ask which offices issue IDPs and what their hours are. If no office near you offers the service, ask whether you can explore by mail or whether you must travel to a specific location. A few states have centralized IDP issuance at one or two offices statewide.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International Driver's License?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document issued by your state DMV. An "International Driver's License" is not a real document — it is a term used by scam websites. Do not pay for an "International Driver's License" from any online service.

Can I drive in a country that does not recognize the IDP?

You can try, but you are breaking the law if you do. Some countries require a certified translation of your license or an IDP issued under the 1926 convention. Check the requirements for your destination before you travel, and obtain the correct documents before you leave the United States.