What an International Driving Permit Is and Whether You Need One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into multiple languages so you can rent a car or drive in other countries. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid Georgia driver's license, and many countries will not accept it without the original license present.

You need an IDP only if you plan to drive outside the United States. Within Georgia or anywhere in the U.S., your regular Georgia driver's license is sufficient. Some car rental companies abroad require an IDP even if local law does not, so check with your rental agency before you travel. The IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which type you request.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit must be obtained in person from a Georgia Department of Driver Services office or an authorized AAA location before you leave the country.
  • You will need your valid Georgia driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-style photo, and the applicable fee to receive an IDP.
  • The one-year IDP costs less than the three-year version, but both are issued on the spot if you explore in person at an authorized location.
  • An IDP is only valid when carried together with your original Georgia driver's license; it does not replace your license.

Where to Get an International Driving Permit in Georgia

You can obtain an IDP from two types of locations: the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) or the American Automobile Association (AAA). The DDS operates driver's license offices across Georgia, and you can find your nearest location on the DDS website by entering your county. AAA also issues IDPs at their local chapters, though you do not need to be a AAA member to request one.

AAA locations often have shorter wait times than DDS offices, especially in urban areas. Call ahead to confirm that the specific location you plan to visit has IDP forms in stock and can process your request that day. Some smaller AAA branches or DDS offices may require an appointment, while others operate on a walk-in basis.

Documents and Information You Will Need

Bring your valid Georgia driver's license, as the IDP is printed directly from the information on your license. You will also need one passport-style photograph (2 by 2 inches) — the same size used for a U.S. passport. If you do not have a recent passport photo, many pharmacies, post offices, and photo studios can take one on the spot for a small fee.

You will complete an process form at the location where you request the IDP. The form asks for your name, address, driver's license number, and the countries you plan to visit. Have your passport handy if you are unsure of the exact spelling of your name as it appears in your travel documents, since the IDP should match your passport exactly to avoid problems at borders or rental agencies.

The Cost and How Long It Takes

The fee for a one-year IDP is typically lower than a three-year permit, though the exact amount varies slightly between DDS offices and AAA chapters. Contact your local office directly for the current fee, as prices can change. Both the one-year and three-year versions are issued when ready if you explore in person and all documents are in order — you will walk out with your IDP the same day.

There is no mail-in option for obtaining an IDP in Georgia. You must appear in person at a DDS office or AAA location. Plan to spend 15 to 30 minutes at the office, depending on how busy it is and how quickly you complete the process form.

What to Do Before You Travel

Once you have your IDP, keep it with your Georgia driver's license at all times while driving abroad. Some countries require both documents to be presented together, and rental car companies almost always ask to see both. Store them in a safe place in your vehicle or accommodation — do not leave them unattended in a rental car.

Before you leave Georgia, check the specific driving requirements for each country you plan to visit. Some nations have additional rules about headlight colors, required equipment in the vehicle, or minimum age for drivers. Your car rental company can tell you what documents they need, and your travel insurance provider may have a checklist of requirements as well.

If Your Georgia License Is Expired or Suspended

You cannot obtain an IDP if your Georgia driver's license is expired, suspended, or revoked. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license has expired, you will need to renew it at a DDS office before you can request an IDP. If your license is suspended or revoked, you must resolve that issue with DDS before traveling.

If you are close to your travel date and your license is about to expire, renew it as soon as possible. DDS can renew licenses in person on the same day in most cases, and then you can when ready request your IDP at the same office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if I have a learner's permit instead of a full license?

No. You must have a valid, unrestricted Georgia driver's license to obtain an IDP. A learner's permit is not sufficient. If you only have a learner's permit, you will need to pass the written and road tests to get a full license first.

What happens if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP is no longer valid for driving. If you are traveling for longer than your IDP covers, you should request the three-year version before you leave Georgia. If your IDP expires during your trip, you can still drive using only your Georgia license in most countries, but check local laws for the specific country you are in.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Canada or Mexico?

Requirements vary by rental company and country. Many rental agencies in Canada and Mexico accept a U.S. driver's license alone, but some require an IDP. Contact your rental company before your trip to confirm what documents they need. Having an IDP eliminates any uncertainty.

Can someone else pick up my International Driving Permit for me?

No. You must appear in person to request an IDP. The issuing office will not release it to anyone else, even with a signed letter of authorization. Plan to visit a DDS office or AAA location yourself before your travel date.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

You can still drive using your Georgia license alone in most countries, though you may have difficulty renting a car without the IDP. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance on replacing it while abroad. When you return to Georgia, you can request a new IDP at any DDS office or AAA location.