What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

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 and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together. The IDP tells police, rental car companies, and insurance agents in other countries that your U.S. license is legitimate and current.

The U.S. State Department does not issue IDPs. Instead, two private organizations have been authorized to issue them: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both documents are identical in legal standing and cost. You get one or the other, not both.

An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. It expires whether you use it or not. You cannot renew it — you must obtain a new one if you travel internationally again after it expires.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works alongside your U.S. driver's license, not as a replacement for it.
  • You can obtain an IDP from either AAA or the American Automobile Touring Alliance, both authorized by the U.S. State Department.
  • The permit costs the same from either organization and is valid for one year from the date you receive it.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license before you can obtain an IDP.
  • Some countries require an IDP by law; others do not, so check your destination's requirements before you travel.

Getting an IDP Through AAA

If you are an AAA member, the quickest route is your local AAA office. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-sized photo (2x2 inches), and a completed process form. AAA staff will fill out the form with you on the spot if you do not have one in advance. The fee is currently $20, though this can vary by region.

Many AAA offices issue the permit the same day you explore. Some locations may take a few business days. You can also mail your process and photo to AAA if you do not have an office nearby, though this takes longer — typically one to two weeks for processing plus mail time.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still obtain an IDP through AAA without joining. The process is identical; you straightforward walk in or mail your materials to any AAA office. Non-members pay the same fee.

Getting an IDP Through the American Automobile Touring Alliance

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) issues IDPs by mail only — there are no walk-in offices. You must read and print the process form from their website or request one by mail. Fill it out completely, include a passport-sized photo (2x2 inches), and mail both to their processing center along with a check or money order for the current fee.

Processing typically takes two to three weeks from the date AATA receives your materials. Add mail time on both ends. If you need the permit quickly, AATA is slower than AAA, so plan accordingly.

The AATA route works well if you have no AAA office nearby or prefer to handle everything by mail. The final document is legally identical to an AAA-issued permit.

What You Need Before You explore

Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not expired. If your license expired or will expire before your trip, renew it through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles first. An IDP cannot be issued on an expired license.

You also need one passport-sized photo. This is a 2x2-inch color photo with a plain background, the same size used for passport applications. You can obtain these at any pharmacy with a photo counter, at UPS stores, or at passport acceptance facilities. Cost is typically $10 to $20 for a set of four photos.

Have your Social Security number available when you fill out the process. Both AAA and AATA require it for verification purposes.

Which Countries Require or Recognize an IDP

Some countries legally require an IDP; others do not. The requirement depends on the country's traffic laws, not on U.S. policy. For example, many European countries require an IDP by law. Some countries in Asia, Africa, and South America recognize it but do not require it. A few countries do not recognize U.S. IDPs at all.

Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country to confirm whether an IDP is required. You can also check the U.S. State Department's travel advisory page for your destination, which often mentions IDP requirements. Do not assume — a rental car company may refuse to rent to you without one, or local police may fine you for driving without one, even if you have a valid U.S. license.

Even if an IDP is not required, many travel insurance policies and rental car companies recommend carrying one. It removes ambiguity and can speed up interactions with authorities or rental agents.

What Happens If Your IDP Expires While You Are Traveling

An IDP that expires during your trip is no longer valid. If you are still abroad when it expires, you cannot renew it overseas — you must wait until you return to the United States. Driving with an expired IDP may result in fines or other legal consequences depending on local law.

If you plan a trip longer than one year, or if you travel internationally multiple times within a year, obtain a new IDP before each trip. Do not wait until you arrive at your destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP if I am renting a car overseas?

It depends on the rental company and the country. Many rental agencies require an IDP as a condition of renting to a U.S. driver. Some do not. Contact the rental company before you book to confirm their requirements. Having an IDP removes this uncertainty.

Can I get an IDP if my U.S. driver's license is suspended or revoked?

No. Both AAA and AATA require a valid, current U.S. driver's license. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP until your license is reinstated and valid again.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact your country's U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement, but they can provide guidance on what to do. In most cases, you can continue driving on your valid U.S. license alone, though local police may question you. Carry a copy of your IDP process receipt if you have one.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document only. An international license does not exist under U.S. law. Some countries issue their own licenses that are recognized internationally, but the United States does not. Your U.S. driver's license is what authorizes you to drive; the IDP straightforward translates it.

How much does an IDP cost?

The current fee is $20 through both AAA and the American Automobile Touring Alliance. Fees may vary slightly by region or may change over time, so confirm the current price when you contact either organization.