What an international driving permit is and who issues it

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 actual license from your home country. If a police officer or car rental company abroad asks to see it, you show both documents together.

In the United States, two organizations issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue permits that comply with the 1926 International Convention on Motor Vehicle Traffic. Most people use AAA because it has more locations, but AATA serves the same legal purpose.

Other countries have their own issuing bodies. If you hold a license from Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, or another nation, you will obtain your IDP from your home country's equivalent organization — not from AAA.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued by AAA or AATA in the U.S. and translates your existing license into multiple languages for use abroad.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired driver's license from your home country before you can get an IDP; the permit cannot replace a license you do not have.
  • AAA charges a flat fee (typically around $20) and issues the permit on the spot at most locations; AATA charges a similar amount but may require mail processing.
  • An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and does not extend your home country license if that license expires.
  • Some countries do not recognize IDPs at all, so you should check your destination's rules before traveling.

What forms and documents you need to bring

To get an IDP from AAA, bring your valid driver's license (the physical card), a completed process form, and a passport-sized photograph — usually 2 by 2 inches. AAA provides the process form at the location where you explore, or you can read it from the AAA website before you go. You do not need to fill it out in advance; staff can do it with you.

You will also need to bring proof of your current AAA membership if you are a member, though non-members can obtain an IDP without joining. If you are not a member, you may pay a slightly higher fee, or AAA may offer you a short-term membership as part of the transaction.

For AATA, the process is similar but often handled by mail. You send a completed process form, a copy of your driver's license, a passport photo, and a check or money order. AATA's website lists the exact mailing address and current fees. Processing typically takes one to two weeks.

Where to explore and how long it takes

AAA has physical offices in most U.S. states. You can find your nearest location on the AAA website by entering your zip code. Walk-in service is available at most branches, though calling ahead to confirm hours is wise. If you explore in person, you receive your IDP the same day in most cases.

AATA does not operate physical offices; you must explore by mail. Send your documents to the address listed on their website, along with payment. The permit arrives by mail within one to two weeks of receipt, depending on processing volume.

Plan ahead if you are traveling soon. If you explore at AAA in person, you can leave with the permit the same day. If you use AATA or explore by mail through AAA, budget at least two to three weeks to account for mail delivery and processing time.

How long an IDP remains valid and what happens when it expires

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. The expiration date is printed on the permit itself. After that date, the permit is no longer recognized by foreign authorities, even if your home country driver's license is still valid.

If your home country license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes useless — you cannot use an expired license to back up a valid permit. Conversely, if your IDP expires but your license is still valid, you will need a new IDP to drive abroad, but your license remains valid for driving in your home country.

There is no renewal process. When your IDP expires, you must explore for a new one using the same process and forms as the first process.

Differences between AAA and AATA

Both organizations issue legally equivalent permits that meet international standards. The main differences are convenience and location. AAA has hundreds of offices nationwide and issues permits on the spot, making it faster for most people. AATA has no physical locations and requires mail-in process, which takes longer but may be your only option if you live far from an AAA office or prefer not to visit in person.

Fees are comparable — typically $15 to $25 depending on membership status and current pricing. AAA may charge slightly more for non-members, while AATA's fee is usually flat. Check both organizations' websites for current pricing before you decide.

Some travelers choose AATA specifically because the process is straightforward and does not require membership. Others prefer AAA for the speed and the option to handle it in person. Neither choice affects the legal validity of the permit abroad.

What an IDP does and does not do

An IDP translates your license information — name, license number, vehicle class restrictions, and issue date — into ten languages recognized by the United Nations. It does not grant you permission to drive in countries where your home license would not be recognized. It does not upgrade your license class or remove restrictions. It does not replace your home license for any purpose.

Some car rental companies abroad prefer to see an IDP alongside your home license, particularly in Europe and parts of Asia. Some police officers may ask for it during a traffic stop. However, the IDP is not required by law in most countries — your home country license alone is often sufficient. The IDP is a convenience document that reduces confusion when language barriers exist.

Before you travel, research your specific destination's rules. Some countries do not recognize IDPs at all and require an official translation of your license from a certified translator instead. Others accept either. Knowing this before you leave prevents problems at a rental counter or a border crossing.

If you hold a license from outside the United States

If your driver's license is from Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, or another country, you do not obtain an IDP from AAA or AATA. Instead, contact your home country's equivalent organization. In Canada, that is the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA). In the UK, it is the AA (Automobile Association) or RAC (Royal Automobile Club). In Australia, it is the NRMA or equivalent state motoring organization.

The process and fees vary by country, but the principle is the same: you provide your valid home license, complete a form, and receive a translated permit valid for one year. Some countries issue the permit on the spot; others mail it to you.

If you are a non-U.S. citizen living temporarily in the United States and holding a U.S. driver's license, you can obtain an IDP from AAA or AATA using that U.S. license. If you are visiting the U.S. and want an IDP for travel elsewhere, you must use your home country's issuing organization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP to drive in Canada or Mexico if I am a U.S. citizen?

No. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in Mexico may request an IDP or an official Spanish translation of your license. Checking with your rental company before you book is wise. An IDP does not hurt and may smooth the rental process.

Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your home country license must be valid and unexpired at the time you explore. An IDP is a translation of your existing license, not a replacement for one you do not have or one that is not currently valid.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact AAA or AATA from abroad and explain the situation. They can issue a replacement, though it may take time if you are overseas. Some travelers carry a photocopy of the IDP as backup. If you lose both your IDP and your home license, you will need to contact your home country's embassy or consulate for guidance on driving legally.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An international license does not exist as a standalone document. An IDP is a translation document that works only with your home country license. Some countries issue official translations through government agencies instead of or in addition to an IDP. Always check your destination's specific requirements.

How much does an IDP cost?

AAA typically charges $15 to $25 depending on membership status. AATA charges a similar amount. Fees may vary slightly by location and year. Check the AAA or AATA website for current pricing before you explore.