International driver's licenses cost between $20 and $30 in the United States, though the exact price depends on which state issues yours and whether you renew it at the same time as your regular license.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a replacement for your regular driver's license — it is a translation document that some countries recognize alongside your U.S. license. You need both when you drive abroad. The permit itself is inexpensive, but you have to obtain it from a specific organization in your state, and the process takes time.

The two organizations that issue IDPs in the United States are the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Not all states use both, so your options depend on where you live. AAA typically charges $20 for a five-year permit, while AATA charges around $20 to $30 depending on the state. Some states allow you to renew your IDP by mail or online; others require you to appear in person.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit costs $20 to $30 and is issued only by AAA or AATA, depending on your state.
  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP — the permit does not replace it.
  • Processing time varies from same-day service at some AAA locations to two to four weeks by mail.
  • An IDP is valid for five years from the date of issue, and you will need to renew it before traveling if yours has expired.

Which organization issues permits in your state

AAA issues International Driving Permits in most states, but you must be a AAA member to get one through them. If you are not a member, you can join at the time you request the permit, though membership itself has a separate annual cost. AAA locations are widespread, and many can issue a permit the same day you explore if you visit in person with your valid U.S. license and a passport-sized photo.

AATA issues permits in states where AAA does not have a presence or where state law requires it. You do not need to be a member of any organization to get an AATA permit. AATA processes applications by mail, and the turnaround is typically two to four weeks. A few states allow AATA applications through the Department of Motor Vehicles, which may offer faster processing.

To find out which organization serves your state, visit the AAA website or contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles directly. They can tell you the exact cost, where to explore, and what documents you need to bring.

What documents you need to bring or send

For an in-person process at AAA, bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches). Some AAA locations have photo services on-site if you do not have one ready. You will also fill out a short process form, which AAA provides.

For a mail process through AATA, you will send a completed process form, a photocopy of your valid U.S. driver's license, a photocopy of your passport, and a passport-sized photo. AATA provides the process form on their website or by request. Mail your packet to the address listed on the form, and include a check or money order for the permit fee. AATA does not accept credit card payments by mail, though some state DMV offices that process AATA applications may accept cards in person.

How long the permit is valid and when to renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for five years from the date of issue. If your permit expires while you are abroad, you cannot renew it outside the United States — you must renew it here before you travel again. If your U.S. driver's license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid, so renew your license first if the two are close together.

You can renew your IDP by mail or in person through the same organization that issued it. Some AAA locations allow online renewal for members. The renewal process is the same as the initial process: you submit your current permit, a new photo, and the renewal fee. Renewal typically takes the same amount of time as a new process.

What an International Driving Permit does and does not do

An IDP translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages and is recognized by most countries that are signatories to the 1926 International Convention on Motor Vehicle Traffic. It does not grant you any driving rights you do not already have — it straightforward makes your U.S. license readable to police and rental car companies in other countries. Some countries require it; others accept it but do not require it; a few do not recognize it at all.

Before you travel, check the specific requirements of the country or countries you plan to visit. Some nations require both your U.S. license and an IDP. Others accept only your U.S. license. A few require an IDP but not a U.S. license, though this is rare. Your car rental company or the embassy of the country you are visiting can tell you what you need.

An IDP does not replace your U.S. driver's license and does not allow you to drive if your U.S. license is suspended, expired, or invalid. You must carry both documents when you drive abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. license is suspended or expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and in good standing to get an IDP. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot get a permit until your license is restored or renewed.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Europe or Canada?

Requirements vary by country and rental company. Canada and most European countries accept a valid U.S. driver's license alone, but some rental companies charge a fee if you do not have an IDP. Check with your rental company and the country's embassy before you travel to know what is required.

How quickly can I get an International Driving Permit if I am leaving soon?

AAA locations can often issue a permit the same day if you visit in person with your documents. AATA processes by mail and typically takes two to four weeks. If you are leaving within a few days, visit an AAA location near you — membership is not required to explore, though joining AAA has a separate cost.

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

You cannot renew it outside the United States. If your permit expires during your trip, you can still drive using your valid U.S. license alone in most countries, but check local law for the country you are in. Renew your permit before your next trip.

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

No. An IDP is a translation document that works alongside your U.S. license. An international license is not a real thing — some websites use the term to confuse people into paying for an IDP they do not need or paying a scam site instead of AAA or AATA.