International driving permits cost between $20 and $30 in the United States, depending on where you get one

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license from your state or country. The cost varies slightly by location because different organizations issue them, but the range is narrow and predictable.

In the U.S., the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the two organizations authorized by the State Department to issue IDPs. AAA charges $20 for a permit valid for one year, or $30 for one valid for three years. AATA charges similar amounts. If you do not belong to AAA, you can still purchase an IDP from them — membership is not required, though members sometimes receive a small discount.

The cost covers the permit itself, processing, and the photograph they take on-site. You do not need to bring a photo; they photograph you during the appointment. The entire transaction usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA and AATA are the only two organizations authorized to issue U.S. International Driving Permits, and both charge $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit.
  • You must bring your valid state driver's license and a completed process form, which you can fill out online or on paper at the office.
  • The permit is valid only when carried together with your actual driver's license — it has no legal standing on its own.
  • Processing happens on the spot at AAA or AATA offices; you walk out with the permit the same day in most cases.
  • International Driving Permits issued in the U.S. are recognized in over 150 countries, but some countries have additional requirements or do not recognize them at all.

What you need to bring to get an IDP

You will need your valid driver's license from your state or country. The license must not be expired. If your license expired within the last year, some offices will still issue an IDP, but policies vary — call ahead to confirm.

You also need to complete an process form. AAA provides form DS-11 (or the equivalent AATA form), which takes about five minutes to fill out. You can read and complete it before you arrive, or fill it out in the office. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, and license number.

Bring a pen. Do not bring a photograph — AAA and AATA photograph you on-site as part of the service. If you are under 18, you may need a parent or guardian present, depending on the office location.

Where to get an International Driving Permit

AAA has over 1,000 offices across the United States. You can find the nearest one by visiting aaa.com and using their office locator tool. Not every AAA office issues IDPs, so confirm by phone or online before you visit. Many AAA offices are open on Saturdays, though hours vary by location.

AATA has fewer physical locations than AAA, but you can order an IDP through their website at aata.org and have it mailed to you. This route takes longer — typically 7 to 10 business days — but works if no AAA office is nearby. The cost is the same.

Do not attempt to order an IDP through the DMV or your state's driver's license office. They do not issue them. Only AAA and AATA are authorized to do so in the United States.

How long an IDP is valid and when to renew

A one-year IDP expires exactly one year from the date of issue. A three-year IDP expires three years from the date of issue. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit.

Your IDP is valid only as long as your underlying driver's license is valid. If your state license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. For example, if you purchase a three-year IDP but your driver's license expires in two years, you will need to renew your driver's license before the IDP can be used again.

You can renew an IDP at any time before it expires. There is no penalty for renewing early. Many travelers renew their IDP a few months before an international trip to may support it will not expire during their travels.

IDP requirements vary by country

Over 150 countries recognize the International Driving Permit, but recognition is not universal. Some countries require an IDP in addition to your license; others do not recognize it at all. A few countries issue their own version of an international permit instead.

Before you travel, check the specific requirements for each country you plan to visit. The U.S. State Department website lists country-by-country rules, and your car rental company can also tell you what documents they require. Some rental companies will not rent to you without an IDP, even in countries where it is not legally required.

China, Russia, and several Middle Eastern countries do not recognize U.S. International Driving Permits. If you plan to drive in those countries, you will need to obtain an international permit from that country's government or use a local driver's license obtained through their licensing authority.

Alternatives if you cannot get to an AAA or AATA office

If you live far from an AAA or AATA office, ordering by mail through AATA is your best option. The cost is the same, and the permit arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You will need to mail in your completed process form and a copy of your driver's license.

Some travel agencies and international auto clubs offer to obtain an IDP on your behalf, but they charge a markup — typically $10 to $20 above the base cost. This route is faster if you are very close to your travel date, but it costs more.

Do not purchase an IDP from websites that claim to issue them online or by email. These are scams. The only legitimate way to obtain a U.S. IDP is through AAA or AATA in person or by mail.

What happens if you lose your IDP while traveling

If your IDP is lost or stolen abroad, you can still drive using your original state driver's license in most countries. The IDP is a translation aid, not a requirement in most places. However, some countries and rental car companies will not accept a license without an IDP, so losing it can create problems.

Contact AAA or AATA from abroad if you need a replacement. They can sometimes issue a duplicate by mail to a hotel or address where you are staying, though this takes time. It is faster to wait until you return to the U.S. and purchase a new one.

To avoid this situation, make a photocopy of your IDP and store it separately from the original. Some travelers also photograph it with their phone. Neither is a legal substitute, but both can help you prove you had one if a rental company or police officer questions you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car abroad?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Many European countries do not legally require an IDP, but most major rental companies will not rent to you without one. Check your rental agreement and the country's requirements before you book. Having an IDP removes any doubt and costs only $20 to $30.

Can I use an International Driving Permit instead of my regular driver's license?

No. An IDP is valid only when carried together with your actual driver's license. If you are stopped by police or asked to show your license, you must present both documents. The IDP alone has no legal standing.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?

If you visit an AAA or AATA office in person, you receive it the same day — usually within 30 minutes. If you order by mail through AATA, it takes 7 to 10 business days. Plan ahead if you are traveling soon.

What if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

You cannot get an IDP with a suspended license. If your license is expired, some offices will issue an IDP if the expiration is recent, but policies vary. Call your local AAA or AATA office to ask before you visit.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document issued by AAA or AATA. An international license is issued by a foreign government and is a separate, standalone license. Most travelers need only an IDP, not an international license.