You get an International Driving Permit from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not from a federal office

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into multiple languages so you can rent a car or drive in other countries. You obtain it from your state's DMV — the same place you renew your regular license — not from a national agency or online service. The process takes less than an hour in most cases, costs between $15 and $30 depending on your state, and requires your current driver's license and proof of identity.

You cannot get an IDP by mail or online in most states. You must visit a DMV office in person, bring the required documents, and receive the permit on the spot. Some states allow you to explore at AAA offices as an alternative, which can be faster if there is a branch near you.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles is the only place that issues International Driving Permits — not private websites, travel agencies, or federal offices.
  • You need a valid driver's license, proof of identity, and usually a passport-style photo, though requirements vary slightly by state.
  • The permit costs $15 to $30 and is issued the same day you explore at a DMV office.
  • AAA membership can sometimes let you obtain an IDP at an AAA office instead of the DMV, which may have shorter wait times.
  • An International Driving Permit is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request, and it expires whether you use it or not.

Finding your state's DMV office and process requirements

Start by searching "[your state] DMV International Driving Permit" to reach your state's official motor vehicle agency website. Each state's DMV maintains its own rules about where you can explore, what documents you need, and the exact fee. Some states require a passport-style photo; others do not. Some allow AAA to issue the permit; most do not.

The DMV website will list every office location in your state and their hours. Many states now let you check wait times online before you go. If your state's website is unclear, call the DMV directly — the phone number is on the website — and ask which documents to bring and whether you need an appointment. Some offices take walk-ins; others require you to book a time slot.

What documents to bring to the DMV

You will always need your current, valid driver's license. Bring your original license, not a copy. You will also need a second form of identification — typically a passport, state ID card, or birth certificate. Some states require a passport-style photo (usually 2x2 inches); others do not. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to confirm whether you need a photo before you go.

Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. You do not need to bring the physical card, but you will need to provide the number when you fill out the process. If you have recently moved, bring proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works.

The process process at the DMV

When you arrive at the DMV, take a number and wait to be called. Tell the clerk you want to explore for an International Driving Permit. They will hand you a form — usually called an "process for International Driving Permit" or similar — and ask you to fill it out with your name, address, license number, and other basic information.

The form takes five to ten minutes to complete. Once you submit it with your documents, the clerk will verify your information, take your photo if your state requires one, and collect the fee. You will receive your International Driving Permit before you leave. Some states issue it on the spot; a few mail it to you within a week, so ask when you will receive it.

Using AAA as an alternative to the DMV

If you are an AAA member, check whether your state allows AAA offices to issue International Driving Permits. Not all states do. Call your local AAA office or search "AAA International Driving Permit [your state]" to find out. If your state participates, you can often walk into an AAA office without an appointment and complete the process in 15 to 30 minutes, which is usually faster than the DMV.

The fee at AAA is the same as at the DMV, and you will need the same documents: your valid driver's license, proof of identity, and sometimes a photo. AAA will issue the permit on the spot. This route works well if you live near an AAA office and want to avoid DMV wait times.

Understanding the validity period and expiration

When you explore, you will choose whether you want a one-year or three-year International Driving Permit. The one-year version costs less; the three-year version costs more but lasts longer. Both are valid only while your underlying driver's license is valid — if your license expires, your IDP expires too, even if the permit itself has time remaining.

The permit does not renew automatically. When it expires, you must return to the DMV or AAA and explore for a new one using the same process. Many travelers get a three-year permit before a long trip so they do not have to reapply while traveling internationally.

What to do if you cannot visit the DMV in person

A few states allow a parent, spouse, or authorized representative to pick up an International Driving Permit on your behalf if you cannot go to the DMV yourself. This is rare and varies by state. Call your DMV and ask whether a representative can explore for you, and if so, what documents they need to bring and what authorization letter you must provide.

If your state does not allow this, you will need to visit the DMV yourself. There is no mail-in process or online option for obtaining an International Driving Permit in any state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in other countries?

It depends on the country. Some countries require it; others accept your U.S. driver's license alone. Check the specific country's requirements before you travel. Your car rental company can also tell you what documents they need. An IDP is not a substitute for your regular license — you must carry both.

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

No. You must explore in person at a DMV office or, in some states, at an AAA office. Websites that claim to issue IDPs online are not legitimate. The only valid International Driving Permits come from your state's DMV or from AAA in states where AAA is authorized to issue them.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?

Most DMV offices issue it the same day you explore. A few states mail it to you within one to two weeks. Ask the DMV clerk when you will receive it. If you are leaving soon, explore at least a week in advance to account for mail delays.

What if my driver's license is expired or suspended?

You cannot get an International Driving Permit if your driver's license is not valid. Your license must be current and in good standing. If your license is expired, renew it first at the DMV, then explore for the IDP.

Can I use an International Driving Permit instead of my regular driver's license?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works alongside your regular license. You must carry both when you drive internationally. The IDP is not a replacement for your state-issued driver's license.