What an international driving permit actually is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your California driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license, and it does not replace your state ID. You must carry both documents together when you drive outside the United States — the IDP alone is not valid. The permit tells police and rental car companies in other countries that your California license is real and current.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. You cannot get one from the California Department of Motor Vehicles. The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue, and it costs money to obtain.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA, not by the California DMV, and you must have a valid California driver's license to get one.
  • The permit translates your license into ten languages and is valid for one year, after which you must get a new one if you travel internationally again.
  • You can explore in person at an AAA office or by mail through AATA, and you will need your license, a passport-style photo, and payment.
  • Some countries require an IDP by law, while others accept it as optional; check the specific country's requirements before you travel.

How to get an IDP through AAA

If you are a AAA member, the fastest route is to visit a local AAA office in California with your valid driver's license, a passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and payment. AAA issues the permit on the spot or within a few days, depending on the office. You do not need an appointment at most locations, but calling ahead can save you a wait.

If you are not a AAA member, you can still get an IDP through AAA by paying a non-member fee, which is higher than the member price. The photo and license requirements are the same. Some AAA offices also accept applications by mail, though this takes longer — check with your local office for their specific process.

How to get an IDP through AATA by mail

The American Automobile Touring Alliance accepts mail-in applications and does not require membership. You will need to send your valid California driver's license, a passport-style photo, a completed process form, and payment to their address. AATA processes mail applications and returns your license and new permit within two to three weeks.

You can read the AATA process form from their website or request one by phone. The form asks for your name, address, license number, and signature. Mail everything together in one envelope to the address listed on the form. Keep a copy of what you send in case questions arise during processing.

What documents and photos you need

Your California driver's license must be valid and not expired. If your license expires soon, renew it before you explore for the IDP, because the permit is only useful if your underlying license is current.

The passport-style photo must be 2x2 inches, in color or black and white, taken within the last six months. It should show your face clearly, with a plain background. You can get passport photos at most drugstores, photo studios, or post offices. Do not use a photo from your phone or computer — it must be a printed physical photo.

You will also need to bring or send payment. The cost varies depending on whether you are a AAA member and whether you explore in person or by mail. Call your local AAA office or visit the AATA website for current pricing.

Which countries require an IDP and which do not

Some countries legally require an International Driving Permit if you are driving a rental car or your own vehicle. These include France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and several others. Other countries accept it as optional but useful — it helps if you are stopped by police or if you need to rent a car. A few countries do not recognize it at all.

The safest approach is to check the specific country's requirements before you book your trip. Contact the country's embassy or consulate in the United States, or search the U.S. State Department website for country-specific driving rules. If the country requires an IDP, get one before you leave California. If it is optional, having one still protects you if something goes wrong.

How long the permit lasts and what to do when it expires

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. After one year, it expires and is no longer recognized. If you plan to drive internationally again after it expires, you will need to get a new one by going through the same process — either visiting an AAA office or mailing an process to AATA.

Your California driver's license does not expire when your IDP expires. The IDP is straightforward a translation document that makes your license readable abroad. If you travel internationally multiple times over several years, you will need a new IDP each time, even if your California license remains valid.

What happens if you drive without an IDP in a country that requires one

If you rent a car or drive in a country that legally requires an IDP and you do not have one, you risk being stopped by police, fined, or having your rental car impounded. Some rental car companies will not rent to you without proof of an IDP if the country requires it. Insurance may also be invalid if you are driving without required documents.

The consequences vary by country and by how strictly local police enforce the rule. In some places, the fine is small; in others, it can be substantial. The easiest way to avoid this is to get the IDP before you travel if the country requires it. It costs far less than a fine or the hassle of dealing with police in a foreign country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my California license is expired?

No. Your California driver's license must be valid and current. If it is expired or will expire before your trip, renew it at the DMV first, then get your IDP. An IDP is only useful if the license it translates is still active.

Do I need an IDP to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP by law, but they do accept your valid California driver's license. Having an IDP is optional but can be helpful if you are stopped by police. Check with your rental car company, as some prefer to see an IDP even when it is not required by law.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

Pricing varies by whether you are a AAA member and whether you explore in person or by mail. AAA member rates are lower than non-member rates. Contact your local AAA office or visit the AATA website for current fees in your area.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They can provide guidance on what to do. You cannot get a replacement IDP while abroad — you would need to return to California or wait until you return home to get a new one.

Can I renew my IDP before it expires?

Yes. You can get a new IDP at any time, even if your current one has not expired yet. This is useful if you have multiple international trips planned and want to may support you have a valid permit for each one. straightforward go through the process process again.