An international driver license is a document that translates your U.S. driver license into ten languages and certifies your driving record to authorities in other countries

The American Automobile Association (AAA) issues what it calls an International Driving Permit (IDP). This is not a replacement for your U.S. license — it is a companion document that works alongside it. Foreign police and rental car companies recognize it as proof that you hold a valid U.S. license and have a clean driving record.

The IDP is issued only to people who already hold a current, valid U.S. driver license. You cannot get one without it. AAA prints the permit in a small booklet format, and it is valid for one year from the date of issue. If you plan to drive in Europe, Asia, South America, or most other regions outside North America, many rental car agencies and some countries require or strongly prefer that you carry one.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your U.S. license into ten languages and is issued by AAA, not by the government.
  • You must already hold a valid U.S. driver license to get one, and the permit is valid for one year from the date AAA issues it.
  • Most car rental companies outside the U.S. will ask for one, and some countries legally require it as proof of your driving record.
  • AAA issues the permit in person at local AAA offices or by mail, and the process takes a few days to a few weeks depending on which method you choose.
  • You must bring your valid U.S. driver license, a passport or other government ID, and a passport-sized photo to get one in person.

Who issues the International Driving Permit and why

The International Driving Permit is issued under a treaty called the 1926 Convention on Motor Traffic, which the United States signed. AAA is the only organization in the U.S. authorized to issue it. The permit is not a government document — it is a certified translation and verification service that AAA provides on behalf of the U.S. State Department.

The permit exists because foreign police and rental agencies cannot easily verify a U.S. driver license on the spot. The IDP includes your name, photo, driving record status, and license number in ten languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Polish. This makes it possible for a police officer in France or a rental agent in Japan to confirm that you are a licensed driver without calling the U.S.

What you need to bring to get one in person

If you visit a AAA office in person, bring three things: your valid U.S. driver license, a government-issued photo ID (passport, passport card, or state ID), and one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches). The photo must be recent — taken within the last six months — and show your face clearly against a plain background.

You do not need to be a AAA member to get an International Driving Permit. Non-members pay a higher fee than members do, but both can obtain one. The process takes about 15 to 20 minutes at the counter. AAA will issue the permit on the spot or within a few days, depending on the office and how busy they are.

How to get one by mail

AAA also accepts mail-in requests. You will need to fill out Form DS-11 or a similar process (AAA provides the exact form on their website or at your local office). Include your valid U.S. driver license, a government-issued photo ID, a passport-sized photo, and a check or money order for the fee.

Mail everything to the AAA office nearest you. Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks. AAA will mail the permit back to you once it is ready. If you need the permit quickly, the in-person route is faster, but if you live far from an AAA office or prefer not to travel, mail-in is an option.

How long the permit is valid and when to renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date AAA issues it. The expiration date is printed on the front of the booklet. If you plan to drive internationally again after that year, you will need to get a new one.

You cannot renew an expired permit — you must explore for a new one. The process is the same as getting your first one: bring your current U.S. driver license, photo ID, and a new passport-sized photo to a AAA office, or mail in the same documents. Some people get a new permit every year before they travel, while others get one only when they know they will be driving abroad.

What countries and rental companies accept it

Most car rental companies in Europe, Asia, Australia, and South America ask for an International Driving Permit alongside your U.S. license. Some will rent to you without one, but many will refuse or charge an extra fee. A few countries — including France, Germany, Italy, and Spain — do not legally require it, but rental agencies in those countries almost always ask for one anyway.

Some countries do legally require the IDP. These include Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and several others. If you plan to rent a car or drive in a country you are not familiar with, check the rental company's website or call ahead to ask whether they require it. The International Driving Permit is not a substitute for your U.S. license — you must carry both.

The difference between an International Driving Permit and an international license

An International Driving Permit is not the same as an international driver license. Some countries issue their own driver licenses that are recognized across borders — these are actual licenses, not translations. The U.S. does not issue an international license. The IDP is the closest thing the U.S. offers, and it is a translation and verification document only.

If you move to another country and plan to stay there long-term, you will eventually need to get a driver license from that country. The International Driving Permit is for temporary visitors and tourists, not for people relocating. It is valid only while you hold a valid U.S. driver license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am renting a car in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico do not require an International Driving Permit. Your valid U.S. driver license is sufficient. However, some rental car companies in those countries may ask for one anyway, so it does not hurt to have it. Call the rental company ahead of time to confirm what they need.

What happens if my U.S. driver license expires while I have an International Driving Permit?

The International Driving Permit becomes invalid the moment your U.S. license expires. You cannot use one without the other. If your U.S. license expires while you are traveling, you will need to renew it before you can legally drive. The IDP does not extend your driving rights beyond what your U.S. license allows.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. driver license has been suspended or revoked?

No. AAA will not issue an International Driving Permit if your U.S. license is suspended, revoked, or expired. Your U.S. license must be valid and in good standing. If your license has been suspended, you must have it reinstated first.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

AAA members typically pay around $15 to $20 for an International Driving Permit, while non-members pay around $20 to $30. Prices vary slightly by AAA club and region. Call your local AAA office or check their website for the exact fee in your area.

Can I use an International Driving Permit to drive in the United States?

No. An International Driving Permit is only for use outside the United States. Inside the U.S., your state-issued driver license is the only document you need. The IDP has no legal standing in the United States.