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 and does not replace your home country's license — you must carry both together. The IDP exists because many countries do not recognize licenses issued outside their borders, even if the license is valid. The permit tells a foreign police officer or rental car company that your home license is legitimate.

The IDP is issued by your home country's automobile association or licensing authority, not by the country you plan to visit. You cannot obtain one in a foreign country. The document is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request, and it costs between $15 and $30 in most cases.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works alongside your regular driver's license, not instead of it.
  • In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs.
  • You need a valid passport or passport card, your current driver's license, and a passport-style photo to obtain an IDP.
  • Processing takes one to two hours in person at most AAA or AATA offices, though mail-in requests take five to seven business days.
  • Many countries do not require an IDP, so check your destination's specific rules before paying for one.

Who Issues International Driving Permits in the United States

Only two organizations in the United States are authorized by the State Department to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No government office issues them directly. AAA is far more widely available, with offices in most states, while AATA has a smaller network and primarily serves members.

Both organizations follow the same rules and issue identical documents. The choice between them depends on which has an office near you. You cannot order an IDP online from either organization — you must explore in person or by mail.

Documents You Need Before You Go

Bring four items to your AAA or AATA office: a valid driver's license, a valid passport or passport card, one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), and the completed process form. The process is straightforward — it asks for your name, address, license number, and the validity period you want (one or three years).

If you do not have a passport yet, you will need to obtain one first. A passport card counts, but a state ID does not. The photo must be recent and meet passport photo standards: a plain background, your face clearly visible, and no sunglasses or hats. Many AAA offices can take the photo for you on the spot for an additional fee.

In-Person and Mail-In Processing Times

If you walk into an AAA or AATA office with all required documents, most locations issue the IDP on the same day. Processing typically takes one to two hours. Call ahead to confirm your local office has the forms in stock and can process your request that day.

If you mail your process and documents to AAA or AATA, expect five to seven business days for processing, plus mail delivery time in both directions. This route is slower but useful if no office is near you. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope or pay for return postage. Some offices accept requests by email with scanned documents, but you must still mail the original photo and process.

Cost and Validity Period

An International Driving Permit costs $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit through AAA. AATA charges similar amounts. These are the only fees — there are no hidden charges or renewal fees if you do not use the permit.

The validity period begins on the date of issue, not on the date you travel. A one-year permit issued in January expires in January of the following year, regardless of when you use it. If you plan to travel more than once over the next few years, the three-year permit is usually the better value.

Countries That Require or Recommend an IDP

Requirements vary by country and change periodically. Some nations legally require an IDP; others recommend it but do not require it; still others do not recognize it at all. The safest approach is to contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country before you travel.

Many European countries, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan recognize and sometimes require an IDP. Mexico and Canada often do not require one if you have a valid U.S. driver's license. Rental car companies sometimes have their own rules separate from the country's law — some require an IDP even when the country does not. Always check with your rental company when you book.

What Happens If You Drive Without an IDP When One Is Required

If you are stopped by police in a country that requires an IDP and you do not have one, you may face a fine, a warning, or confiscation of your license. The severity depends on local law and the officer's discretion. In some places, driving without the required documents can result in your vehicle being impounded.

Rental car companies may refuse to rent to you if you lack an IDP in a country where they require one. Insurance may also be voided if you are in an accident and did not carry the required documents. The cost of an IDP is small compared to the risk of these outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Canada and Mexico do not legally require an IDP if you have a valid U.S. driver's license. However, some rental car companies may request one. Check with your rental company before you book. Carrying an IDP does not hurt and may smooth interactions with police or rental agents.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and current. An IDP is only a translation of your existing license, so it cannot be issued if the license itself is not valid. Renew your license first, then obtain the IDP.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact AAA or AATA from abroad and request a replacement. Most offices can issue a duplicate by mail if you provide proof of your original process. Keep a photo or scan of your IDP in your email or phone as backup. A lost IDP does not invalidate your regular driver's license.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International License?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document issued by your home country. An "International License" is not a real thing — scams online sometimes sell fake documents under this name. Only obtain an IDP from AAA or AATA.

How long does an International Driving Permit stay valid after I return home?

An IDP remains valid for its full term (one or three years) regardless of whether you are traveling or at home. You can use it on future trips without obtaining a new one, as long as your driver's license is still valid.