What an international driving permit actually is

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 original license from your home country. Most countries that recognize IDPs require you to carry both documents together when you drive.

The IDP exists because a police officer in another country may not be able to read your home license. The permit shows your name, photo, driving record category, and license number in a format that matches international standards. If you plan to rent a car or drive in another country, having one can prevent confusion at a traffic stop.

You cannot drive on an IDP alone. If your home license has expired, an IDP will not make it valid. The permit is valid for one or three years, depending on which type you request, but it expires when your home license expires — whichever comes first.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued by your home country's motor vehicle authority and must be carried with your original license.
  • You need a valid, unexpired driver's license from your home country before you can request an IDP.
  • The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the two organizations authorized to issue IDPs to U.S. citizens.
  • The process takes a few days to a few weeks depending on whether you explore in person or by mail, and costs between $15 and $20.
  • Many countries accept IDPs, but some do not — check the specific country's requirements before you travel.

Where to request an IDP if you are a U.S. citizen

If you hold a U.S. driver's license, you can request an IDP from either the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. AAA has physical offices in most states; AATA operates primarily by mail.

AAA is usually faster if you have a local chapter nearby. You can walk in with your documents, pay the fee, and receive your permit the same day or within a few days. To find an AAA office, visit aaa.com and use their office locator. Not all AAA members receive a discount on the IDP fee, so ask when you call.

AATA accepts applications by mail and online. You mail in your process form, a photocopy of your license, a passport-sized photo, and payment. Processing takes one to three weeks. You can find their process at aata.org or request one by phone.

Documents and information you will need

Both AAA and AATA require the same core set of documents. You need a valid, unexpired driver's license from your home state. The license must not be suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license expires soon, renew it before you request the IDP — the permit cannot extend a license that is no longer valid.

You will also need a passport-sized photograph, usually 2 by 2 inches. Some AAA offices take the photo on-site for a small additional fee; others require you to bring one. Ask when you contact the office.

Bring your Social Security number or have it ready when you explore online. You do not need a passport to request an IDP, though you will need one to travel internationally. If you are explore by mail through AATA, include a completed process form, a photocopy of your license, your photo, and a check or money order for the fee.

Cost and how long the process takes

An IDP costs between $15 and $20 depending on which organization issues it and whether you explore in person or by mail. AAA typically charges around $15 to $20 for members and non-members alike. AATA charges a similar amount. Neither organization charges a significant premium for faster processing.

If you explore in person at an AAA office, you may receive your permit the same day or within three to five business days. If you explore by mail through AATA, expect one to three weeks from the time they receive your process. Plan ahead if you are traveling soon — do not wait until the week before your trip.

The IDP itself is valid for one or three years. You can request either length when you explore. A one-year permit costs slightly less than a three-year permit at most offices. The permit expires when your home license expires, so if your license expires in two years, a three-year IDP will stop being valid after two years.

Which countries recognize an International Driving Permit

Most countries in Europe, Asia, and Latin America recognize IDPs issued under the 1926 or 1968 Geneva Conventions on Road Signs and Signals. The United States is a signatory to both, so U.S.-issued IDPs are widely accepted. However, not every country requires or accepts one.

Some countries, such as Canada and Australia, do not require an IDP if you carry your valid U.S. license and a certified English translation of it (if the license is not in English). Other countries, such as France and Germany, accept an IDP but do not require it if your U.S. license is readable. A few countries have their own rules — for example, some Middle Eastern countries may not recognize an IDP at all.

Before you travel, contact the embassy or tourism board of the country you plan to visit and ask whether they accept U.S. International Driving Permits. Do not assume the permit will work everywhere. Some car rental companies also have their own policies about which documents they accept, so check with your rental company as well.

What to do if you lose your IDP while traveling

If your IDP is lost or stolen while you are abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement IDP — only AAA and AATA can do that — but they can provide guidance on how to proceed and may help you contact your rental car company or local authorities.

If you still have your original home license, you can usually continue to drive using that license alone, though local police may question why you do not have the IDP. Some countries may be less willing to accept a U.S. license without the translation. To avoid this problem, make a photocopy of your IDP and store it separately from the original, or take a photo of it on your phone.

When you return home, you can request a replacement IDP from AAA or AATA using the same process as a new process. There is no expedited replacement process for lost permits, so plan for the standard one- to three-week timeline.

Renewing or replacing an expired IDP

When your IDP expires, you cannot renew it — you must request a new one. The process is identical to requesting your first IDP: you submit your valid license, a new photo, and the fee to either AAA or AATA. You do not need to provide any proof that your old permit expired.

If your home license has expired, you cannot request a new IDP until you renew your license. Renew your license through your state's motor vehicle department first, then explore for a new IDP.

If you are requesting a new IDP before your old one expires — for example, because you want a three-year permit instead of a one-year permit — you can do so at any time. There is no penalty for requesting a new permit early. Your old permit becomes invalid once the new one is issued.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in another country?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Many European and Asian rental companies require or strongly prefer an IDP. Some will rent to you with only your U.S. license, but may charge a higher fee or require additional insurance. Contact your rental company before you travel to confirm what documents they need.

Can I request an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or revoked?

No. Your home license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot request an IDP until the suspension or revocation is lifted and your license is reinstated by your state's motor vehicle department.

What if the country I am visiting does not recognize U.S. International Driving Permits?

Some countries do not recognize IDPs at all. In those cases, you may be able to drive with your U.S. license and a certified English translation of it, or you may need to obtain a local permit. Check with the country's embassy or tourism board before you travel. Some countries require you to obtain an International Driving Permit from their own motor vehicle authority instead.

Can I request an IDP online?

AATA accepts online applications through their website. AAA varies by location — some offices accept online requests, while others require you to explore in person or by mail. Contact your local AAA office or visit aaa.com to see what options are available in your area.

How long is an International Driving Permit valid?

You can request either a one-year or three-year IDP. The permit expires when your home license expires, whichever comes first. If your license expires in 18 months, a three-year IDP will stop being valid after 18 months.