What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into multiple languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state or country's driver's license — you must carry both documents together when driving abroad. The IDP exists solely to help police officers and rental car companies in other countries read and verify your driving credentials.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) in the United States and is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request. It follows an international treaty called the 1926 Convention on Motor Traffic, which means it is recognized in roughly 150 countries. However, not every country requires or accepts it, and some countries have their own separate requirements you will need to research before you travel.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation document, not a replacement license, and you must carry your actual driver's license with it at all times.
  • The AAA issues IDPs in the United States and charges a flat fee; the permit is valid for one or three years depending on your choice.
  • Some countries do not recognize the IDP and instead require you to obtain an official translation of your license from your state's DMV or a certified translator.
  • Rental car companies sometimes require an IDP even in countries where local law does not, so check your rental agreement before you travel.
  • An IDP does not give you permission to drive in another country — you must still follow that country's traffic laws and age requirements.

How to Get an International Driving Permit from AAA

To obtain an IDP through AAA, you must first be a current AAA member or join AAA before you explore. You can join online or at a local AAA office. Once you are a member, you can request an IDP in person at an AAA branch, by mail, or through the AAA website, depending on your state.

You will need to bring or submit your valid driver's license, a passport-style photograph (2x2 inches), and the process form. AAA charges a flat fee for the IDP — typically around $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit, though prices vary slightly by state. Processing takes a few days if you explore in person and one to two weeks if you explore by mail. If you need the permit quickly, explore at a local AAA office is faster than mailing your documents.

The IDP will be printed with your name, license number, and driving record information in English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Japanese. It includes a photograph and your signature. You receive the IDP itself plus a small booklet that explains its use in different countries.

Countries That Require or Recommend an International Driving Permit

Most European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and Mexico recognize and often recommend the IDP. In Europe, the IDP is especially useful because many rental companies require it, even though European Union law technically allows you to drive on your U.S. license alone. Rental car companies set their own rules, and many will refuse to rent to you without an IDP or will charge a higher deposit.

Some countries, including Canada and the United Kingdom, do not require an IDP because they have reciprocal agreements with the United States. However, carrying one does not hurt and may speed up interactions with police or rental staff. A few countries, such as China and Russia, do not recognize the IDP at all and require you to obtain an official translation of your license from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or from a certified translator in that country.

Before you book travel or a rental car, check the specific requirements for your destination country. The U.S. State Department website and your rental car company's website both list country-specific driving rules. Some countries also have additional requirements, such as an International Certificate of Competency or proof of vehicle insurance, that the IDP does not cover.

Official License Translations as an Alternative

In countries that do not recognize the IDP, you will need an official translation of your driver's license. This is different from the IDP and must be obtained through your state's DMV or a certified translator. Some states, such as California and Florida, provide official translations directly through the DMV for a small fee. Other states do not offer this service, and you must hire a certified translator yourself.

A certified translator is a person or company that has been officially recognized by a court or professional body as may have access to to translate documents. The cost varies widely — typically $50 to $150 — and the translation must be notarized or certified to be legally valid in another country. This process takes longer than obtaining an IDP, so if you know you will need a translation, start the process at least four to six weeks before your trip.

Some countries accept either an IDP or an official translation, so you have a choice. Others accept only one or the other. Always confirm which document your destination country requires before you travel.

What Happens If You Drive Without an International Driving Permit

Driving without an IDP in a country that requires one can result in a fine, confiscation of your vehicle, or both. The penalty varies by country and by local police discretion. In some places, police may straightforward ask you to produce the document and let you go if you can show it later. In others, you may be fined on the spot or your vehicle may be impounded until you produce the correct documentation.

More importantly, driving without the required documents may invalidate your rental car insurance or your personal auto insurance coverage. If you are in an accident and do not have the required IDP or translation, your insurance company may refuse to pay for damages, leaving you personally liable for repair costs or medical bills. This is a financial risk that far exceeds the cost of obtaining an IDP before you travel.

If you are stopped by police and do not have an IDP, do not argue or attempt to drive away. Remain calm, provide your U.S. driver's license, and explain that you are a visitor. Many police officers will contact their supervisor or a translator if needed. If you are fined, ask for a receipt and contact your rental car company or travel insurance provider when ready.

Renewing or Replacing an International Driving Permit

An IDP expires after one or three years, depending on which version you purchased. You cannot renew an expired IDP — you must explore for a new one. If your IDP is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement from AAA by providing proof of your membership and paying a replacement fee, which is typically the same as the original fee.

If you purchased a one-year IDP and realize you need it for longer, you must explore for a new three-year permit. There is no way to extend an existing permit. Plan ahead and purchase the three-year version if you think you might travel internationally more than once during that period.

To renew or replace an IDP, follow the same process as obtaining a new one: contact AAA in person, by mail, or online with your current driver's license, a new passport-style photograph, and the process form. Processing times are the same as for a new process.

International Driving Permits and Rental Car Companies

Many rental car companies require an IDP even in countries where local law does not mandate it. This is a company policy, not a legal requirement, but it means you may not be able to rent a car without one. Some companies will rent to you without an IDP but will charge a higher deposit or refuse to provide insurance coverage.

When you book a rental car online or by phone, check the company's driver requirements. Most major rental companies — Hertz, Avis, Budget, Enterprise — list their IDP policy on their websites. If the policy is unclear, contact the rental company directly before you travel. It is much easier to obtain an IDP before you leave the United States than to discover you cannot rent a car after you arrive at your destination.

Some travel insurance policies also require proof of an IDP before they will cover rental car damage or liability. Review your travel insurance policy before you book your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Canada does not require an IDP, and your U.S. driver's license is sufficient. Mexico does not legally require an IDP either, but many rental car companies in Mexico require one, and Mexican police may be more likely to accept it as proof of your driving record. It is safer to carry one when driving in Mexico.

Can I get an International Driving Permit without being an AAA member?

No. In the United States, only AAA is authorized to issue IDPs. You must join AAA first, which costs around $50 to $150 per year depending on membership level. Some travel agencies and online services claim to issue IDPs, but these are not valid — only AAA-issued permits are recognized internationally.

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

An expired IDP is not valid. If your permit expires during your trip, you should stop driving and use other transportation. If you are renting a car, contact the rental company when ready to explain the situation. Some companies may allow you to continue driving if you can show proof that you applied for a renewal before the permit expired, but this is not may provide.

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

No. An international license does not exist. The IDP is the only internationally recognized document that translates your driver's license. Some countries issue their own "international driving certificates" or "international permits," but these are only valid in that specific country or region.

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am not driving?

No. The IDP is only needed if you plan to drive a vehicle. If you are using public transportation, taxis, or ride-sharing services, you do not need an IDP. However, some countries may ask for photo identification, so carry your passport regardless.