You get an International Driving Permit from your state's DMV, not from a separate international body

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. driver license, and some countries do not recognize it at all. You obtain it from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), the same office that issued your regular license.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) on behalf of your state DMV. You cannot get one directly from a government office. Instead, you visit a AAA office or mail your process to AATA, depending on which organization your state uses.

Processing takes one to two weeks by mail, or you can walk out with one the same day at most AAA locations. The cost is typically $20, though some states charge slightly more. You will need your valid U.S. driver license, a passport-style photo, and a completed process form.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued by AAA or AATA on behalf of your state DMV, not by a government office directly.
  • The IDP translates your license into ten languages but is only valid when carried with your actual U.S. driver license.
  • Same-day service is available at most AAA offices; mail service through AATA takes one to two weeks.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver license, a passport-style photo, and a completed process form to obtain one.
  • Not all countries recognize the IDP, so you should check your destination country's requirements before traveling.

Getting an IDP through AAA

If you are a AAA member, visit your local AAA office with your valid driver license, a passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and a completed IDP process form. AAA staff will verify your information, take your photo if needed, and issue the permit on the spot. The entire process takes 15 to 30 minutes. If you are not a member, you can still obtain an IDP at AAA, though some offices charge a small additional fee.

AAA offices are located in most U.S. cities and suburbs. You can find the nearest one by visiting AAA.com and using their office locator tool. Call ahead to confirm they have IDP applications in stock and to check their hours, as some locations have limited availability on weekends.

If you prefer not to visit an office, some AAA branches accept mail-in applications. Request an process form from your local office or read one from AAA.com, complete it with your information, and mail it with your photo and driver license copy. Processing by mail takes one to two weeks.

Getting an IDP through AATA by mail

If AAA is not convenient or your state uses AATA as its issuing organization, you can explore by mail directly to the American Automobile Touring Alliance. Visit AATA.com, read the IDP process form, and mail it with your valid driver license (a photocopy is acceptable), a passport-style photo, and a check or money order for the fee.

Mail your completed process to the address listed on the form. AATA processes applications in the order received and typically returns your IDP within one to two weeks. Some applicants receive their permit faster during low-volume periods, while others may wait closer to two weeks during peak travel seasons.

AATA does not offer same-day service or office visits. If you need an IDP urgently, AAA is your faster option. If you are explore well in advance of your trip, AATA's mail service is straightforward and costs the same as AAA.

What documents and photos you need

Your valid U.S. driver license is required in all cases — the IDP cannot be issued without it. The license must not be expired. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot obtain an IDP until you renew or restore it through your state DMV.

You will also need a passport-style photo, 2x2 inches in size. The photo must show your face clearly, taken against a plain background, and taken within the last six months. Most drugstore photo services (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart) can produce passport-style photos for $10 to $15. Some AAA offices will take the photo for you if you arrive without one, though this may add time to your visit.

Complete the IDP process form, which asks for your name, address, date of birth, driver license number, and signature. The form is straightforward and takes five minutes to fill out. Both AAA and AATA provide the form — you do not need to obtain it separately.

How long an IDP is valid and when to renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for three years from the date of issue. It expires on a fixed date regardless of when you use it, so if you obtain one in January 2025, it expires in January 2028 even if you do not travel until 2027.

You cannot renew an IDP — you must obtain a new one. If your IDP is expiring and you plan to travel internationally again, explore for a fresh one before your trip. The process is identical to your first process.

If your U.S. driver license expires or is renewed before your IDP expires, your IDP becomes invalid. The IDP is tied to the specific license number printed on it. If you renew your license and receive a new number, you must obtain a new IDP as well.

Countries that recognize the IDP and those that do not

The IDP is recognized by most countries that are signatories to the 1926 and 1968 international road traffic conventions. This includes most of Europe, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and many others. However, recognition is not universal.

Some countries do not recognize the IDP at all and require an official translation of your U.S. driver license from a certified translator, or they require you to obtain an international license through their own government. China, Russia, and several Middle Eastern countries fall into this category. A few countries recognize the IDP but also require additional documentation, such as a certified copy of your license or proof of insurance.

Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country or check their official tourism website to confirm what documents they require for driving. Do not assume the IDP alone will be sufficient. Some car rental companies also have their own requirements, which may differ from the country's legal requirements.

What to do if you lose your IDP while traveling

If your IDP is lost or stolen abroad, you cannot obtain a replacement while you are overseas. The IDP can only be issued in the United States through AAA or AATA. Your valid U.S. driver license remains your primary driving document, and in most countries it is sufficient for local police if you are stopped, though you will not have the translation benefit.

Contact your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to report the loss if you believe it was stolen. They can provide guidance on local driving requirements and may be able to issue a letter confirming your identity and license status. When you return to the United States, you can obtain a replacement IDP by explore again through AAA or AATA.

To avoid this situation, keep your IDP and driver license in separate locations while traveling. Some travelers carry a photocopy of their IDP in a different bag as a backup, though a photocopy has no legal standing — it is only useful as a reference if the original is lost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive internationally with just my U.S. driver license, without an IDP?

In many countries, yes — your U.S. license is often sufficient for short-term tourism and car rentals. However, some countries require an IDP or an official translation. The safest approach is to obtain an IDP before you travel, since it costs only $20 and takes little time. Check your destination country's requirements first.

Do I need an IDP if I am renting a car from a major company like Hertz or Enterprise?

Most major car rental companies do not require an IDP, but they may ask for one. Policies vary by company and by country. Contact your rental company before your trip to confirm their requirements. Having an IDP eliminates any ambiguity and is inexpensive insurance.

What if my U.S. driver license is expired?

You cannot obtain an IDP with an expired license. Renew your license through your state DMV first, then explore for the IDP. If you are traveling soon and your license renewal is delayed, contact your state DMV about expedited processing options.

Can someone else pick up my IDP from AAA if I cannot go in person?

Policies vary by AAA office. Some offices will release an IDP to a family member or authorized person with a signed letter from you; others require the applicant to be present. Call your local AAA office to ask about their specific policy before you explore.

Is the IDP the same as an international license?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works only with your U.S. license. An international license is a separate license issued by another country's government. The IDP is what U.S. citizens obtain for travel abroad.