What a driver's license translation is and when you need one
A driver's license translation is a certified document that converts your foreign driver's license into English (or another language, depending on where you're going). It is not a replacement for your original license — it sits alongside it as proof of what your license says.
You need a translation when you're driving in a country or state where your license is in a different language and the law requires proof that officials can read it. The United States does not have a federal requirement for translated licenses, but individual states and rental car companies set their own rules. Some states accept an International Driving Permit instead; others require nothing at all if you have a valid foreign license.
The translation must be done by someone authorized to certify it — usually a professional translator, a consulate, or a service that specializes in this work. A photocopy you made yourself or a translation from a friend will not be accepted by law enforcement or a rental agency.
Key Takeaways
- A translated driver's license is a certified document that sits alongside your original license and proves what it says in English.
- Requirements vary by state and by rental car company; some require a translation, some accept an International Driving Permit, and some require neither.
- Only certified translations from authorized translators, consulates, or professional services are legally recognized.
- Translation costs typically range from $15 to $50 per document, depending on the service and how quickly you need it.
- You can order translations online from services that work by mail, in person from a local translator, or through your country's consulate.
Where to get a certified translation
You have three main routes: a professional translation service, your country's consulate or embassy, or a local certified translator.
Professional translation services operate online and by mail. You photograph or scan your license, upload it to their website, and they send you a certified translation by email or mail. Companies like AAA (for members), Certified Translations, and state-specific services handle these routinely. Turnaround is usually 1 to 5 business days depending on the service and whether you pay for rush processing. Cost is typically $15 to $35 per document.
Your country's consulate or embassy can issue a certified translation or direct you to an approved translator. This route is free or very low-cost but slower — consulates often have limited hours and longer wait times. Call or visit the consulate website for your country to ask whether they offer this service and what documents you need to bring.
Local certified translators work in person in most cities. You can find them through your state's court system (many maintain lists of certified translators), through the American Translators Association directory, or by searching "[your city] certified translator." Costs range from $20 to $50 depending on the translator and location. Some offer same-day service if you walk in with your license.
What information the translation must include
A certified translation of your driver's license must show every piece of information on the original: your name, date of birth, license number, issue and expiration dates, address, restrictions or endorsements, and any other details printed on the card. The translator must also include a statement certifying that they are may have access to to translate and that the translation is accurate and complete.
The certification statement typically reads something like: "I certify that I am fluent in [language] and English, and that the above translation is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief." The translator signs and dates this statement. Some services also include a notary seal, though this is not always required — check with the state or rental company that will accept the translation.
The translation should be on official letterhead or include the translator's credentials (license number, business address, contact information). This proves the translator is authorized and makes it harder to forge.
Differences between a translation and an International Driving Permit
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a separate document issued by your home country that translates your license information into multiple languages. It is not a license itself — it is a companion document that proves your home country recognizes you as a licensed driver.
The key difference: an IDP is issued by your country's motor vehicle authority (or an authorized agent like AAA in the US), while a translation is issued by a professional translator or consulate. An IDP is standardized across countries and recognized in most places worldwide. A translation is language-specific and recognized where that language is understood.
Some states and rental companies accept an IDP instead of a translation. Others require both. A few require neither. Before you pay for either, check the specific requirement of the state you're driving in or the rental company you're using. If you're renting a car, call the rental company directly — their website may not list all accepted documents.
Cost and processing time by service type
| Service Type | Typical Cost | Processing Time | How to Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online translation service | $15–$35 | 1–5 business days (rush available) | Upload scan or photo online; receive by email or mail |
| Consulate or embassy | Free–$20 | 1–4 weeks | Visit in person or mail documents; call ahead for hours |
| Local certified translator | $20–$50 | Same day to 3 business days | Walk in or call for appointment; in-person service |
| International Driving Permit | $20–$30 | Same day to 2 weeks | AAA office (US members), or your country's motor vehicle authority |
What to do if your license is expired or about to expire
A translation of an expired license is still valid as proof of what your original license said, but it does not extend your driving rights. If your license has expired, you cannot legally drive in most places, translation or not. The translation only proves the information on the original — it does not renew it.
If your license is expiring soon, you have two choices: renew it before you travel, or get a translation of the current license and plan to renew it when you return home. Some countries allow you to renew by mail or online if you're abroad; others require you to renew in person. Check your country's motor vehicle authority website before you travel.
If you're renting a car and your license is expired, the rental company will not rent to you, translation or not. Rental companies check the expiration date on the original license.
How to verify a translator's credentials
Before you pay for a translation, confirm that the translator is actually certified. Ask for their translator certification number or license number — this varies by state and country but should be verifiable.
In the United States, some states maintain official lists of certified translators. Check your state's court website or secretary of state office. The American Translators Association (ATA) also maintains a directory of member translators, though membership is voluntary and not all certified translators belong. If a translator claims to be certified, they should be able to provide proof.
For consulate translations, call the consulate directly to confirm they offer this service and what the process is. Do not rely on third-party websites claiming to represent the consulate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a translation from Google Translate or a translation app?
No. Law enforcement and rental companies require a certified translation, which means it must be signed and stamped by an authorized translator who takes legal responsibility for its accuracy. A machine translation or a translation you did yourself has no legal standing.
Do I need to carry both my original license and the translation?
Yes. The translation is proof of what your original license says, but it does not replace it. You must carry both documents together. If you lose the original, the translation becomes useless.
How long is a translation valid?
A translation does not expire, but your original license does. Once your license expires, the translation is no longer useful because it proves an expired license. Renew your original license before it expires if you plan to drive.
Will a translation work in every state?
No. Each state sets its own rules. Some states do not require a translation at all if you have a valid foreign license. Others require one. A few accept only an International Driving Permit. Before you travel, contact the state police or motor vehicle department of the state you're driving in to confirm what they require.
Can I get a translation if my license is in a language that uses a different alphabet?
Yes. Translators work with all languages and alphabets. The translation will convert the information (name, address, license number, dates) into English letters and numbers. This is actually one of the most common reasons people need translations — licenses in Arabic, Chinese, Cyrillic, or other non-Latin scripts.