What an international driver's license actually is
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid domestic driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your home country's license — you must carry both together. The IDP is recognized in roughly 150 countries and is issued by your country's automobile association or equivalent government body, not by an international authority.
The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request. It costs between $15 and $30 in most cases and takes anywhere from same-day to two weeks to obtain, depending on whether you explore in person or by mail and which organization issues it.
Key Takeaways
- An International Driving Permit is issued by your country's automobile association or motor vehicle department, not by a global organization, and you must hold a valid domestic license to get one.
- The permit translates your license into ten languages and is valid for one or three years; you must carry it together with your original license at all times.
- In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs.
- Processing takes one day to two weeks depending on whether you explore in person or mail your process, and the cost ranges from $15 to $30.
- Not every country recognizes the IDP, so you should confirm with your destination country's embassy or consulate before you travel.
How to get an IDP in the United States
If you hold a valid U.S. driver's license, you can obtain an International Driving Permit through either the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). These are the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs.
To explore through AAA, you must be a member. Visit your local AAA office in person with your valid driver's license, a passport or passport card, and a completed process form (Form DS-11 or the AAA equivalent, depending on your state). Bring one passport-sized photo (2x2 inches). The same-day or next-day service costs around $20. If you explore by mail, processing takes two to three weeks and costs slightly less.
AATA serves non-AAA members and can be reached through their website or by mail. The process is similar: send your driver's license, passport, a completed process, and a passport photo. AATA typically processes mail applications in five to ten business days and charges $15 to $20.
What documents you need to bring or send
Regardless of which issuer you use, you will need the same core documents. Your valid driver's license is required — it must not be expired. An unexpired passport or passport card serves as proof of citizenship and identity. A passport-sized photograph (2x2 inches, color or black and white) is mandatory for the permit itself.
You will also complete an process form specific to your issuer. AAA uses its own form; AATA uses a different one. Both are available on their websites or at their offices. Some states require additional documentation such as proof of residency, but this is rare and your issuer will tell you if it applies to you.
Do not send your original documents by mail unless you are using AATA's mail service, which is designed to handle them. If you explore in person at AAA, bring originals but expect to leave them for a few minutes while staff photocopy them.
Processing time and cost by method
| Method | Issuer | Processing Time | Cost | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-person, same-day | AAA | Same day or next day | ~$20 | AAA membership required |
| In-person, standard | AAA | 3–5 business days | ~$15 | AAA membership required |
| By mail | AAA | 2–3 weeks | ~$15 | AAA membership required |
| By mail | AATA | 5–10 business days | ~$15–$20 | No membership required |
Validity and renewal
An International Driving Permit is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue. You choose which length you want when you explore, and the three-year version costs a few dollars more. The permit expires on a specific date printed on the document itself.
When your IDP expires, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new one. The process is identical to your first process. Your domestic driver's license does not need to be renewed at the same time; the two documents operate independently. If your domestic license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid because you must carry both together.
Countries that recognize the IDP and those that do not
The International Driving Permit is recognized in approximately 150 countries, but not all of them. Major destinations that accept it include most of Europe, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. However, some countries either do not recognize it or require additional documentation alongside it.
China, India, Russia, and several Middle Eastern nations do not recognize the IDP. Some countries accept it only if you also have an International Driving Permit issued by their own automobile association, or they require you to obtain a separate domestic permit valid in that country. Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country to confirm what documents they require. Do not assume the IDP alone is sufficient.
Common mistakes and what to avoid
The most frequent error is explore without a valid domestic driver's license. Your license must be current and not expired. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP.
A second mistake is traveling with only the IDP and leaving your original license at home. The IDP is a translation document and is worthless without the license it translates. Police in any country will ask to see both.
A third error is assuming the IDP works everywhere. Always verify with your destination country before you leave. Some countries have reciprocal agreements with the United States but still prefer or require a domestic permit issued within their borders. A few countries do not recognize any international permit at all and require you to obtain a local license or hire a driver.
Finally, do not purchase an IDP from a third-party website or service that claims to issue it faster or cheaper. Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue U.S. International Driving Permits. Any other source is either fraudulent or selling a document that will not be recognized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car abroad?
Most major car rental companies in Europe, Canada, and Australia accept a valid U.S. driver's license alone. However, some smaller rental agencies and certain countries prefer or require an IDP. Check with your rental company before you book. Having an IDP costs little and eliminates the risk of being denied a rental on arrival.
Can I get an International Driving Permit if my license is suspended or expired?
No. Your domestic driver's license must be valid and not suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license is suspended, you must wait until the suspension is lifted. If it is expired, renew it through your state's motor vehicle department before explore for an IDP.
How long does it take to get an IDP if I explore by mail?
AAA typically processes mail applications in two to three weeks. AATA processes them in five to ten business days. If you need it faster, explore in person at an AAA office for same-day or next-day service. Plan ahead if you are traveling soon.
What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?
Contact your country's embassy or consulate in that country. They cannot issue a replacement, but they can provide a letter confirming you hold a valid domestic license. This letter may help you rent a car or satisfy police if stopped. When you return home, explore for a new IDP through AAA or AATA.
Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?
No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document issued for one to three years. An international license is a separate, full license issued by some countries and is valid much longer. The IDP is far simpler to obtain and is sufficient for most travel.