What an International Driving Permit Is and Why You Might Need One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It does not replace your license — you must carry both together. The IDP tells police and rental car companies in other countries that your U.S. license is valid, because many countries do not recognize American licenses on their own.

You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car, drive, or ride a motorcycle abroad. Some countries require it by law; others do not, but rental agencies often will not hand over a car without one. The permit is issued for one or three years and costs less than $20 through AAA.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is one of two organizations in the United States authorized by the State Department to issue IDPs. The other is the National Automobile Club. AAA issues the vast majority of them.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages and must be carried alongside your actual license when you drive abroad.
  • AAA is the primary authorized issuer of IDPs in the United States and charges under $20 for a one-year or three-year permit.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photo, and proof of your address to obtain an IDP from AAA.
  • AAA issues IDPs in person at local club offices and by mail; processing takes a few days in person or one to two weeks by mail.
  • An IDP is not a license itself and does not let you drive if your U.S. license is suspended, expired, or restricted.

What Documents You Need to Bring to AAA

You will need your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photograph (usually 2x2 inches), and proof of your current address. The address proof can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license with your current address printed on it counts as both your ID and your address proof.

Bring the originals, not copies. AAA staff will verify your license and photograph before issuing the permit. If your license is expired, suspended, or restricted (such as a commercial license with certain limitations), you cannot get an IDP.

You do not need to be an AAA member to obtain an IDP, though members sometimes receive a small discount. Call your local AAA office to confirm they have the forms and photos in stock before you visit.

Getting an IDP in Person at an AAA Office

Walk into any AAA club office with your documents and request an International Driving Permit process. Staff will fill out the form with you, take a new photo if you do not have one, and process your permit on the spot. The entire visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

You will pay the fee (typically $15 to $20 depending on whether you want a one-year or three-year permit) and receive your IDP when ready or within a few days. Some offices print them same-day; others mail them to you within a week. Ask the staff member which applies at your location.

AAA offices are located in most U.S. states. Use the AAA website or call 1-800-AAA-HELP to find the office nearest you and confirm their hours before you go.

explore for an IDP by Mail

If you cannot visit an AAA office, you can request an IDP process by mail or read it from the AAA website. Fill out the form, attach a passport-style photo, include a copy of your driver's license and proof of address, and mail everything to the AAA address listed on the form along with your payment.

Processing by mail takes one to two weeks from the time AAA receives your envelope. Mail your process well before your trip — do not wait until a week before you leave. AAA recommends sending your process at least two weeks in advance.

Use certified mail or a tracked service so you can confirm delivery. Keep a copy of everything you send for your records.

How Long an IDP Lasts and When to Renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year or three years, depending on which you purchase. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. Your IDP expires on that date regardless of whether your U.S. driver's license expires first.

You cannot renew an IDP — you must obtain a new one. Start the process at least two weeks before your permit expires if you plan another trip abroad. If your U.S. license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid because it is tied to your license.

What an IDP Does and Does Not Do

An IDP is a translation document only. It does not grant you any driving rights you do not already have. If your U.S. driver's license is expired, suspended, or restricted, an IDP will not override that. Police and rental agencies will reject it.

An IDP does not replace your U.S. license. You must carry both documents together when you drive abroad. Some countries require the IDP by law; others do not. Even where it is not legally required, rental car companies often will not rent to you without one.

An IDP does not cover international insurance, vehicle registration, or road tax. You are still responsible for obtaining the correct insurance and following the driving laws of the country you are visiting.

Countries That Require or Strongly Recommend an IDP

Most European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and many others recognize and sometimes require an IDP. Some countries will not rent you a car without one, even if the law does not technically require it. Before you travel, check the specific requirements for each country on your itinerary — rules vary widely and change.

Contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting, or check their official tourism website. Rental car companies also list their IDP requirements on their websites. It is safer to obtain an IDP before you leave the United States than to discover you need one after you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not suspended or restricted. Renew your license first, then explore for the IDP.

Do I need to be an AAA member to get an IDP?

No. AAA issues IDPs to members and non-members alike. Members may receive a small discount, but the permit is available to anyone with a valid U.S. driver's license.

What if I lose my IDP while I am traveling?

Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a new IDP, but they can provide a letter confirming your identity and your U.S. license status. Some rental agencies and police will accept this in place of the original permit. Carry a photo of your IDP on your phone as backup.

Can I get an IDP for a motorcycle or commercial license?

Yes, if your U.S. license is valid and not restricted. AAA issues IDPs for all license types. However, some countries have separate rules for motorcycle riders or commercial drivers, so check your destination's requirements before you travel.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

AAA charges approximately $15 to $20 depending on whether you choose a one-year or three-year permit. Prices vary slightly by location. Non-members and members pay the same fee, though members may receive a discount at some offices.