The cost of an International Driving Permit varies by country and issuing body, but in the United States it typically runs $20 to $30 through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or a similar authorized issuer

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your domestic driver's license into multiple languages recognized by police and rental agencies abroad. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. driver's license. The fee you pay covers the permit itself, the processing, and the booklet that explains traffic laws in different countries.

The exact price depends on which organization issues it and how quickly you need it. AAA charges around $20 for a permit valid for one year, or roughly $30 for a three-year permit, though these amounts can shift by location. Other authorized issuers may charge slightly more or less. Some countries' automobile associations charge different rates if you are not a member of their organization.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit costs $20 to $30 in the United States and is valid for one to three years depending on which version you purchase.
  • You must hold a valid U.S. driver's license to obtain an IDP — the permit is not a standalone document.
  • AAA and similar automobile associations are the only authorized issuers in the U.S.; you cannot obtain an IDP from a DMV or online-only service.
  • Processing typically takes a few days to two weeks in person, or longer if ordered by mail, so plan ahead if you are traveling soon.
  • The IDP is recognized in over 150 countries but does not replace your domestic license and is not required everywhere — check your destination's rules before purchasing.

Where to buy an International Driving Permit and what to bring

In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) is the primary issuer of International Driving Permits. You can obtain one by visiting an AAA office in person, which is the fastest method. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-sized photograph (usually 2 by 2 inches), and cash or a card to pay the fee. Some AAA locations accept mail-in requests, though processing takes longer — typically one to two weeks plus shipping time.

A few other organizations, such as the American Automobile Touring Alliance, also hold authorization to issue IDPs, but AAA remains the most widely available option. Do not attempt to purchase an IDP from a third-party website or travel service — these are often scams or resellers charging inflated prices. The legitimate issuer will always be a recognized automobile association, not a generic travel company.

If you do not have an AAA membership, you can still purchase an IDP. Non-members may pay a slightly higher fee or be asked to join AAA as part of the transaction, depending on the location. Call your local AAA office ahead of time to confirm their current pricing and whether they require membership.

How long an International Driving Permit remains valid

An International Driving Permit issued in the United States is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which version you purchase. The one-year permit costs less upfront but requires renewal sooner if you travel frequently. The three-year permit costs more but covers a longer period and is often the better choice for people who take multiple international trips.

Your IDP is valid only as long as your underlying U.S. driver's license is valid. If your domestic license expires before your IDP does, the permit becomes invalid. Conversely, if your IDP expires but your license is still active, you can purchase a new IDP without renewing your license.

Different countries recognize the IDP for different lengths of time. Some nations accept it for the full duration printed on the document; others limit its use to a shorter period, such as 12 months from entry. Check the specific rules for your destination before traveling.

What an International Driving Permit does and does not cover

An International Driving Permit translates your driver's license information — name, address, license number, and driving restrictions — into ten languages. It is designed to help police officers and car rental agencies understand your license if they do not read English. The IDP itself does not grant you permission to drive; your U.S. license does that. The permit is straightforward a companion document that makes your license readable abroad.

Many car rental agencies outside the United States require an IDP alongside your domestic license, particularly in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Some rental companies will refuse to rent to you without one, even if local law does not strictly require it. An IDP can also be useful if you are stopped by police and need to prove you hold a valid license from your home country.

An IDP does not replace your domestic license, does not allow you to drive in countries where you are not legally permitted to drive, and does not cover traffic violations or accidents. It is not insurance and does not change your driving rights. If you are involved in an accident or receive a traffic citation abroad, your IDP will not protect you — you will still be subject to local traffic laws and penalties.

Whether you actually need an International Driving Permit for your trip

Whether you need an IDP depends on your destination and your plans. Many countries do not legally require one — your U.S. driver's license alone is sufficient. However, car rental agencies often demand an IDP even when local law does not. Before you travel, contact the rental company you plan to use and ask whether they require an IDP. If you are not renting a car and do not plan to drive, you may not need one at all.

Some destinations — including much of Europe, Australia, and parts of Asia — have high rental-company demand for IDPs, making it practical to obtain one even if it is not legally required. Other regions, such as Canada and Mexico, rarely require an IDP for U.S. citizens. Your travel insurance or credit card company may also have guidance on whether an IDP is recommended for your specific destination.

If you are unsure, purchasing an IDP is a low-cost precaution. The $20 to $30 fee is small compared to the risk of arriving at a rental counter and being unable to rent a vehicle because you lack the required document.

How to use your International Driving Permit when you travel

When you travel, carry both your U.S. driver's license and your International Driving Permit together. Do not separate them — the IDP is only valid when presented alongside your domestic license. Keep them in a safe place, such as a travel wallet or hotel safe, and bring them with you if you plan to drive or rent a vehicle.

If you are stopped by police, present both documents. If you are renting a car, give both to the rental agent. The rental company will likely photocopy or scan both documents as part of the rental agreement. If you lose your IDP while traveling, you can still drive using your U.S. license alone in most countries, though a rental company may refuse to rent to you. Contact AAA or the U.S. embassy in that country if you need a replacement while abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit online or by mail?

AAA accepts mail-in requests for an IDP, but processing takes one to two weeks plus shipping time. In-person pickup at an AAA office is faster — usually same-day or within a few days. Do not use third-party websites claiming to issue IDPs online; these are not legitimate. The only authorized issuers in the U.S. are automobile associations like AAA.

What if my International Driving Permit expires while I am traveling?

You can still drive using your U.S. license alone in most countries, but a car rental agency may refuse to rent to you. If you are abroad for an extended period and your IDP expires, contact the U.S. embassy or a local AAA affiliate to see whether a replacement is possible. For future trips, purchase a three-year permit to avoid this problem.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP for U.S. citizens, and most car rental agencies in those countries accept a U.S. driver's license alone. However, some rental companies may still request one. Call ahead to confirm your rental company's policy before you travel.

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

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works only with your U.S. license. An international license is a separate, standalone license issued by some countries. The U.S. does not issue international licenses — only IDPs.

Can I renew my International Driving Permit before it expires?

Yes. You can purchase a new IDP before your current one expires. This is useful if you have a one-year permit and plan to travel again soon. straightforward visit an AAA office or submit a mail-in request with your current license and a new photograph.