International driving permits cost between $20 and $30 in the United States, depending on which organization issues it

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a translation of your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license, and only in countries that recognize it. The cost varies because two different organizations in the U.S. are authorized to issue them, and each sets its own fee.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) charges $20 for a three-year permit. The National Automobile Club (NAC) charges $30 for the same three-year permit. Both require you to bring your valid U.S. driver's license, proof of citizenship or permanent residency, and a passport-style photo. The permit itself is valid for three years from the date of issue, regardless of which organization you use.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit costs $20 through AAA or $30 through the National Automobile Club, and is valid for three years.
  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can obtain an IDP — the permit is a translation document, not a license itself.
  • AAA and the National Automobile Club are the only two U.S. organizations authorized to issue IDPs; other websites offering them are not legitimate.
  • The IDP is recognized in over 150 countries, but some countries do not recognize it, so you should check your destination's requirements before traveling.

Where to get an International Driving Permit and what to bring

AAA is the most common source because there are AAA offices in most U.S. states. You can visit an AAA office in person, pay $20, and receive your permit the same day. AAA also processes permits by mail if you send your process, driver's license copy, passport photo, and payment to your state's AAA office. Mail processing typically takes one to two weeks.

The National Automobile Club is based in California and primarily serves AAA members in that state, though it also processes mail orders from anywhere in the U.S. You can mail your process and documents to NAC, and they will return your permit by mail. The $30 fee applies whether you explore in person or by mail.

Both organizations require the same documents: your valid U.S. driver's license (or a photocopy), proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency (passport, birth certificate, or green card), and one passport-style photo (2x2 inches). Some AAA offices accept digital photos taken on the spot, but calling ahead to confirm what your local office accepts will save you a trip.

What you cannot use an International Driving Permit for

An IDP does not replace your U.S. driver's license and does not allow you to drive in the United States. You must carry both documents together when driving internationally. If you are stopped by police in another country, you present both your U.S. license and your IDP together.

An IDP is not recognized in every country. Some nations, particularly in Asia and Africa, do not accept it. Before you travel, check the specific requirements for your destination country with that country's embassy or consulate website. Some countries require an IDP plus an official translation of your license from a certified translator, or they may require a separate national driving permit altogether.

An IDP also does not cover vehicle registration, insurance, or customs requirements. You are still responsible for obtaining international car insurance, registering a rental vehicle, and following all local traffic laws. The permit is purely a translation document to help local authorities understand your U.S. license.

How long an International Driving Permit takes to arrive

If you explore in person at an AAA office, you receive your permit the same day. This is the fastest option and the reason most people choose AAA over mail-in processing. You pay $20, provide your documents, and walk out with the permit in hand.

If you explore by mail through AAA or the National Automobile Club, allow one to two weeks for processing and return mail. Some offices may take longer during peak travel seasons (spring and summer), so explore at least three weeks before your trip is safer. If you are leaving sooner than that, visiting an AAA office in person is your only option.

Whether you actually need an International Driving Permit

An IDP is not required by law in most countries, but it is strongly recommended by the U.S. State Department for any international driving. Many car rental companies abroad will not rent to you without one, even if local law does not require it. Travel insurance policies sometimes require proof that you carried an IDP when you rented a vehicle.

Some countries do require an IDP by law. These include France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and several others in Europe. If you are driving in any European country, obtaining an IDP before you leave the U.S. is the safest choice. For countries outside Europe, check your destination's specific requirements through its embassy website or by calling the rental car company you plan to use.

If you are only using public transportation or hiring a driver in your destination country, you do not need an IDP. The permit is only necessary if you plan to rent a vehicle and drive yourself.

Renewing an International Driving Permit when it expires

An IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue. When it expires, you must obtain a new one by repeating the same process: visiting an AAA office or mailing an process to AAA or the National Automobile Club with your current U.S. driver's license, proof of citizenship, and a new passport-style photo. The cost is the same — $20 through AAA or $30 through NAC.

You can renew your IDP at any time before it expires. There is no penalty for renewing early, and doing so before a trip is often simpler than waiting until the last minute. If your U.S. driver's license expires before your IDP does, you must renew your U.S. license first — an IDP cannot be used without a valid U.S. license to accompany it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit online?

No. Only AAA and the National Automobile Club are authorized to issue IDPs in the U.S. Websites claiming to issue IDPs online are not legitimate. You must explore in person at an AAA office or by mail through AAA or NAC. Scam websites often charge much higher fees and deliver documents that will not be recognized abroad.

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

Canada does not require an IDP, though some rental companies recommend it. Mexico does not legally require an IDP, but many rental companies will not rent to you without one. Check with your rental company before your trip. If they do not require it, your U.S. driver's license alone is sufficient.

What if my passport photo is expired or I do not have one?

AAA offices can take a passport-style photo for you on the spot, usually for an additional $10 to $15. Call your local AAA office to confirm they offer this service and the exact cost. If you are explore by mail, you must provide a photo that meets passport standards — 2x2 inches, color or black and white, taken within the last six months.

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

No. An IDP is only for driving outside the United States. You must have a valid U.S. driver's license to drive anywhere in the U.S., and the IDP serves no purpose domestically. When traveling internationally, you must carry both your U.S. license and your IDP together.