Get your international driver's license from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license, and you must carry both together. You obtain it from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), not from a federal office or international body.

Most states issue the permit in person at a DMV office, though a few allow you to request one by mail. The process takes 15 to 30 minutes in person. You will need your valid driver's license, a passport or passport card for identification, and a passport-sized photo (2x2 inches). The cost ranges from $15 to $30 depending on your state, and the permit is valid for three years from the date of issue.

Some countries require the IDP to rent a car or drive legally, while others accept your U.S. license alone. Check the specific country's rules before you travel, because the IDP is not a substitute for a valid U.S. license — it is only a translation of it.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's DMV issues the International Driving Permit, and you must bring your valid driver's license, a photo ID like a passport, and a passport photo to get one.
  • The permit costs $15 to $30 and takes 15 to 30 minutes to obtain in person at most DMV offices.
  • An International Driving Permit is valid for three years and must be carried together with your actual U.S. driver's license at all times.
  • Some countries require the IDP to drive legally, while others do not, so confirm the rules for your destination before you travel.
  • A few states allow mail requests for the permit, but most require you to visit a DMV office in person.

How to find your state's DMV office and hours

Search online for "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] Department of Motor Vehicles" to find the official website. Most state DMV sites have a location finder tool where you enter your city or zip code and see nearby offices, their hours, and whether they issue International Driving Permits on-site.

Call ahead before you go. Not every DMV office issues the permit — some handle only license renewals or registration. The phone number is on the DMV website, and staff can confirm whether your local office has the permit in stock and whether you need an appointment. Many DMVs now use online appointment systems, and booking ahead often cuts your wait time significantly.

Documents you need to bring

Bring your current, valid U.S. driver's license. It must not be expired. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an International Driving Permit until you renew or restore your license first.

Bring a photo ID that shows your full legal name and date of birth. A passport or passport card works best because it matches the name on your driver's license. A state ID card also works. The DMV will not accept a photo ID that has a different name than your driver's license.

Bring one passport-sized photo, 2 inches by 2 inches. This is the same size photo used for passport applications. You can get these taken at most pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens), UPS stores, or passport photo services for $5 to $15. Some DMV offices sell photos on-site, but availability varies — call ahead if you do not have one.

What happens during the in-person visit

When you arrive, check in at the DMV counter and tell staff you need an International Driving Permit. They will hand you a form — usually a single page — that asks for your name, address, driver's license number, and passport number or other ID number. Fill it out and return it with your documents.

Staff will verify your driver's license is valid and not suspended. They will scan your photo and check that it meets size requirements. If everything is in order, they will process the permit on the spot. You will pay the fee (typically $15 to $30 in cash or card, depending on your state) and receive your permit when ready or within a few minutes.

The permit is a small booklet, roughly the size of a passport. It contains your name, license number, and a photo, along with translations of your license information into ten languages. Keep it with your driver's license whenever you drive outside the United States.

States that allow mail requests

A small number of states — including California, Florida, and New York — allow you to request an International Driving Permit by mail instead of visiting an office in person. Check your state's DMV website to see if mail requests are available.

If your state allows it, you will typically mail in a completed form, a copy of your driver's license, a passport photo, and a check or money order for the fee. Processing time by mail is usually 2 to 4 weeks. Some states charge an additional fee for mail processing. Call your state DMV to confirm the exact process and mailing address, because procedures vary.

What to do if your state DMV does not issue the permit

A very small number of states do not issue International Driving Permits through the DMV. If your state is one of them, you can obtain a permit through the American Automobile Association (AAA). AAA is an authorized issuer in all 50 states and can issue the permit even if your state's DMV does not.

Visit a local AAA office with your valid driver's license, a photo ID, a passport photo, and the fee (usually $20 to $30). AAA will issue the permit on the spot. You do not need to be a AAA member to get an International Driving Permit, though membership may may have access to you to a discount. Search online for "AAA near me" or visit the AAA website to find the nearest office.

How long the permit is valid and what to do when it expires

An International Driving Permit is valid for three years from the date it is issued. It expires on the date printed on the front of the booklet. Once it expires, you cannot use it to drive in other countries, even if your U.S. driver's license is still valid.

To renew, return to your state's DMV or AAA office with the same documents you brought the first time: your valid driver's license, a photo ID, and a new passport photo. The process is identical to the first process. You do not need to bring your expired permit, though you can if you want to. Plan to renew before you travel if your permit is within six months of expiration, because processing can take time.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Canada and Mexico do not require an International Driving Permit — your valid U.S. driver's license is sufficient. However, some car rental companies in those countries may ask for one, so it does not hurt to have it. Check with your rental company before you travel.

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

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not expired. If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, renew or restore it through your state's DMV first, then explore for the International Driving Permit.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact your state's DMV or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement while you are abroad, but they can provide documentation that you hold a valid permit. When you return home, visit your DMV or AAA office to request a replacement, which usually takes the same time as a new process.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works only with your valid U.S. driver's license. It is not a separate license. Some countries issue their own international licenses, but the U.S. does not — the IDP is the only document the U.S. provides for this purpose.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

The cost ranges from $15 to $30, depending on your state. AAA charges a similar amount. Some states charge extra for mail requests. Call your state's DMV or visit their website to confirm the exact fee before you explore.