What the DMV actually issues

Your state's DMV does not issue an International Driving Permit (IDP). The DMV issues your regular state driver's license, which is what you need to drive legally in the United States. An IDP is a separate document that translates your license into multiple languages and is recognized in about 150 countries — but it is not issued by any DMV.

An IDP is issued by organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department, not by state motor vehicle departments. The two main organizations that issue IDPs in the United States are the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). You obtain an IDP from one of these groups, not from your DMV, even though you need a valid state driver's license to get one.

The confusion happens because an IDP looks official and requires your state license as proof. But the DMV's job ends when it issues your state license. Everything after that — getting the IDP itself — happens through a separate process with AAA or AATA.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state DMV issues only your regular driver's license; it does not issue International Driving Permits.
  • The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the two organizations authorized to issue IDPs in the United States.
  • You must have a valid state driver's license before you can obtain an IDP from AAA or AATA.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and takes about one to two weeks to arrive by mail, depending on which organization you use.

Where to get an International Driving Permit

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the most widely used source for IDPs. If you are a AAA member, you can request an IDP in person at a local AAA office, by mail, or online through the AAA website. Non-members can also obtain an IDP from AAA, though the process may require a visit to an office or mailing in your process. You will need your valid state driver's license, a passport-style photo, and the process form.

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second authorized issuer. AATA primarily handles IDP requests by mail. You send in your completed process, a copy of your valid driver's license, a passport photo, and the fee. AATA processes the request and mails the IDP to you.

Both organizations charge a small fee — typically $15 to $20 — and both require that your state driver's license be valid and not suspended or revoked. The IDP itself is valid for three years from the date of issue, but only while your state license remains valid. If your state license expires, your IDP is no longer useful.

What you need before explore for an IDP

Start with a valid state driver's license. It must not be expired, suspended, or revoked. The license must be in your name and match the name on your passport or other travel documents. If your name has changed since your license was issued, update your license first through your state DMV before requesting an IDP.

You will also need a passport-style photograph — usually 2 by 2 inches. Most AAA offices can take this photo for you on the spot, or you can bring one from a photo service. Some post offices also offer passport photos. The photo must be recent and show your face clearly against a plain background.

Finally, you will need the process form itself. AAA provides this form at their offices or online. AATA provides it on their website or by mail request. Both forms ask for basic information: your name, address, date of birth, driver's license number, and the state that issued your license.

How long an IDP takes and what it costs

If you explore in person at an AAA office, you can sometimes receive your IDP the same day or within a few days. If you explore by mail through AAA or AATA, expect one to two weeks for processing and delivery. During busy travel seasons, processing may take longer.

The cost is consistent across both organizations: between $15 and $20 for a single IDP. Some AAA offices may charge slightly different fees depending on membership status or local pricing, so call ahead if cost is a concern. AATA's fee is typically fixed regardless of where you mail your process.

An IDP is valid for three years. After that, you can request a new one using the same process. Your state driver's license does not need to be renewed for you to get a new IDP — you just need a current, valid license in your name.

When you actually need an IDP

An IDP is useful when you plan to rent a car or drive in another country. Many car rental companies outside the United States ask for an IDP along with your state driver's license, even though your U.S. license is legally valid in most countries. The IDP serves as a translation and makes the rental process smoother.

Some countries require an IDP by law; others straightforward prefer it. Before you travel, check the requirements for the specific country or countries you will visit. Your travel agent, the country's embassy website, or the car rental company can tell you whether an IDP is necessary.

Within the United States, an IDP is not needed. Your state driver's license is sufficient for all driving, car rentals, and identification purposes in all 50 states and U.S. territories.

The difference between a state license and an IDP

Your state driver's license is a legal document issued by your state government that proves you are licensed to drive in that state and throughout the United States. It contains your photo, signature, address, and driving record information. It is the only document you need to drive legally in the U.S.

An International Driving Permit is a translation document. It does not replace your state license and cannot be used alone. It translates the information on your state license into ten languages and is recognized by police and rental companies in countries that have signed the international driving permit treaty. It is a convenience document for travel, not a replacement for your state license.

Think of an IDP as a companion to your state license, not a substitute. You must carry both when driving internationally. Your state license proves you are licensed; the IDP proves what your license says in languages the other country recognizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive internationally with just my U.S. state driver's license?

Yes, your U.S. state driver's license is legally valid in most countries. However, many car rental companies and some police officers prefer or require an IDP as well, because it translates your license information. Check the specific country's requirements before you travel.

What if my state driver's license is expired?

You cannot obtain an IDP with an expired license. Renew your state license through your DMV first, then request the IDP. Your state DMV can tell you how long renewal takes in your state.

How long is an IDP valid?

An IDP is valid for three years from the date it is issued. However, it is only useful while your state driver's license remains valid. If your state license expires before the IDP expires, the IDP is no longer useful and you will need to renew both.

Can I get an IDP if I have a suspended or revoked license?

No. Both AAA and AATA require that your state driver's license be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended or revoked, you must resolve that issue with your state DMV before you can obtain an IDP.

Do I need an IDP if I am only visiting another country and not driving?

No. An IDP is only necessary if you plan to drive or rent a car. If you will be using public transportation or hiring a driver, you do not need an IDP. Your passport is sufficient for travel and identification.