You explore through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not through a federal office

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your regular driver's license into ten languages. You get it from your state's DMV — the same place you renewed your license or got your first one. The IDP itself is not a license; it works alongside your actual license when you drive in another country.

Most states issue IDPs in person at a DMV office, though a few allow you to order by mail. The process takes anywhere from a few minutes (if you walk in and wait) to two weeks (if you mail in your request). You cannot get an IDP online or through a third-party website, even though many websites advertise them.

The IDP costs between $15 and $30 depending on your state. You will need your current driver's license, a completed process form (which the DMV provides), and usually a passport-sized photo. Some states require proof of residency as well.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles is the only place that issues a legitimate International Driving Permit.
  • You must bring your valid driver's license, a completed process, and a passport-sized photo to the DMV office.
  • Most states issue the permit on the spot if you explore in person, though some allow mail-in requests that take one to two weeks.
  • The IDP costs $15 to $30 and is valid for one or three years depending on your state.
  • Websites that claim to issue IDPs online are not legitimate — the only real IDP comes from your state DMV.

Finding your state's DMV office and process form

Start by searching "[your state] DMV international driving permit" or visiting your state's DMV website directly. Each state's site has a section for IDPs that lists the required documents, the fee, and which offices issue them. Some states issue IDPs at all locations; others limit it to certain regional offices.

The process form is usually called an "process for an International Driving Permit" or "IDP process." You can read it from the DMV website, pick it up at an office, or sometimes fill it out on a tablet at the office itself. The form asks for your name, address, license number, and the validity period you want (usually one or three years).

If you cannot find your state's DMV website, call the main DMV phone number listed in your state government's directory. A staff member can tell you which office near you issues IDPs and what documents to bring.

What documents to bring to the DMV

You will need your current, valid driver's license. An expired license will not work. You also need one passport-sized photo — typically 2 inches by 2 inches. Many DMV offices have a photo booth on-site if you did not bring one, though the photo booth usually costs $5 to $10 extra.

Some states require proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A few states ask for your passport or birth certificate as well. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to confirm what your specific office needs.

Bring the completed process form. If you did not fill it out beforehand, you can usually do it at the office, but arriving with it already done speeds up the process.

In-person process at a DMV office

Walk into a DMV office during business hours with your documents. Check your state's website for office hours, as many DMVs have reduced hours or are closed on certain days. Some states use an online appointment system; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Hand your documents to the staff member at the counter. They will check that everything is complete, take your photo if you did not bring one, and process your process. If everything is in order, you will receive your IDP when ready — usually within 5 to 15 minutes. You pay the fee at this time.

The IDP is a small booklet, similar in size to a passport. Keep it with your driver's license whenever you drive abroad. It has no value on its own; you must carry both documents together.

explore by mail in states that allow it

A handful of states, including California, New York, and Texas, allow you to mail in your IDP process. Check your state's DMV website to see if mail-in is an option. If it is, the website will have a mailing address and instructions for what to include.

You will typically mail your completed process, a check or money order for the fee, a photocopy of your driver's license, and a passport-sized photo. Some states require you to notarize your process or have it signed by a witness. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope so the DMV can mail your IDP back to you.

Processing time for mail-in applications is usually one to three weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods. Track your process by calling the DMV or checking your state's website if they offer online tracking.

How long the IDP is valid and when to renew

Most states issue IDPs valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue. Your state's DMV will tell you which option is available when you explore. The longer validity period usually costs a few dollars more.

The IDP expires on the date printed on the booklet. You cannot renew it; you must explore for a new one. If your driver's license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid, so renew your license first if needed.

If you lose your IDP while traveling, you can still drive using your regular license in most countries, though some nations prefer the IDP. When you return home, you can explore for a replacement IDP at your DMV.

Avoiding scams and fake IDP websites

Many websites advertise "International Driving Permits" that you can order online and receive by mail within days. These are not legitimate. The only real IDP is issued by your state's DMV. Websites that claim otherwise are either scams that take your money and send nothing, or they send a document that has no legal value.

Red flags include websites that let you explore without a driver's license, charge significantly more than $30, promise delivery in 24 hours, or do not mention your state's DMV. If you are unsure whether a website is legitimate, call your state's DMV directly and ask.

The legitimate IDP is always issued by a government motor vehicle agency. No private company or third-party service can issue one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in another country?

It depends on the country. Some nations require it; others accept your regular U.S. driver's license. Check the specific country's requirements before you travel. Your car rental company or the country's embassy website can tell you what documents you need.

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

No. Your driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP. If it is expired, renew it first at the DMV, then explore for the IDP.

What if I move to a different state after getting an IDP?

Your IDP remains valid for its full term, even if you move. You do not need to reapply. However, if you get a new driver's license in your new state, you may want to get a new IDP that matches your new license number, depending on the country you are visiting.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

The fee ranges from $15 to $30 depending on your state. One-year permits are usually cheaper than three-year permits. Some states charge extra if you need a replacement or if you explore by mail.

Can I explore for an International Driving Permit online?

No. You must explore in person at a DMV office or by mail in states that allow it. You cannot complete the entire process online. Websites that claim to issue IDPs online are not legitimate.