What an international driving permit actually is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. driver's license, and some countries do not recognize it at all. The permit lets you rent a car or drive in countries that require proof you hold a valid license in your home country.

In Miami, you do not get an IDP from the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles. Instead, you obtain it from one of two organizations: the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. The process takes less than an hour, costs around $20, and the permit is valid for one or three years depending on which you choose.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued by AAA or AATA, not by Florida's motor vehicle office, and must be used together with your valid U.S. driver's license.
  • You need your current driver's license, a passport or passport card, and a passport-sized photo (2x2 inches) to obtain one in person.
  • AAA locations throughout Miami can issue an IDP the same day if you visit in person with all required documents.
  • The permit costs approximately $20 and is valid for either one or three years, depending on which term you select.
  • Not all countries recognize the IDP, so you should contact your destination country's embassy or consulate before your trip to confirm it will be accepted.

Getting an IDP from AAA in Miami

AAA is the most accessible option for Miami residents. The organization has multiple locations throughout Miami-Dade County, and you can walk in without an appointment. Bring your current Florida driver's license, a valid passport or passport card, and one passport-sized photo (2 inches by 2 inches). AAA staff will complete the process on the spot, take your photo if you do not have one, and issue the permit when ready.

You do not need to be an AAA member to obtain an IDP, though members sometimes receive a small discount. Call ahead to confirm your nearest AAA office is open and has the permit in stock — most do, but it is worth verifying. The cost is typically $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit, though prices vary slightly by location.

Getting an IDP from AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance is the other authorized issuer. AATA operates fewer locations than AAA, and many are outside Miami proper, but the process is identical: bring your driver's license, passport or passport card, and a 2x2 passport photo. The cost and validity periods are the same as AAA.

AATA locations are less common in South Florida than AAA offices, so you may need to travel farther or contact them by phone to find the nearest issuing location. You can search for AATA offices on their website or call to confirm hours and whether they have permits available.

Documents you need to bring

Gather these three items before you visit either AAA or AATA:

  • Your current, valid Florida driver's license
  • A valid U.S. passport or passport card
  • One passport-sized photograph, 2 inches by 2 inches

If you do not have a passport-sized photo, AAA locations can take one for you on the spot for a small additional fee. You cannot use a photo from your phone or a regular snapshot — it must meet passport photo standards (plain background, face clearly visible, taken within the last six months).

Your driver's license must be valid and not suspended or revoked. If your license is expired, you will need to renew it at a Florida DMV office before you can obtain an IDP.

How long the IDP takes and how long it lasts

If you visit AAA or AATA in person with all required documents, you will receive your permit the same day. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. There is no waiting period or mail delivery — you walk out with the document in hand.

The permit is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which term you purchase. A one-year permit costs around $20; a three-year permit costs around $30. The longer term makes sense if you travel internationally more than once during that period. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit.

What to do before you travel

Before you leave for another country, contact the embassy or consulate of your destination to confirm that an International Driving Permit is recognized there. Some countries accept it; others do not. A few countries require both the IDP and an official translation of your driver's license from a certified translator. Your destination country's website will list what documents you need to drive legally.

Keep your IDP and your U.S. driver's license together when you travel — you cannot use one without the other. If you lose either document while abroad, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in that country for guidance on how to proceed. Do not attempt to drive without both documents, even if local police do not stop you, because you may not be covered by rental car insurance.

When you do not need an IDP

Many countries do not require an International Driving Permit. Canada, for example, accepts a valid U.S. driver's license on its own. The same is true for most of Western Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. However, some rental car companies in these countries may still ask to see an IDP, and having one can prevent confusion at the rental counter.

If you are traveling to a country where an IDP is not required, you do not need to obtain one. Your U.S. driver's license is sufficient. The IDP is useful mainly as a translation tool and as proof that your license is valid in your home country — it does not grant you any driving rights you would not already have with your U.S. license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit by mail?

AAA and AATA both issue permits in person only. You must visit a physical location with your documents. Neither organization mails permits or accepts remote applications. If you cannot visit in person, you cannot obtain an IDP.

What if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

You cannot obtain an International Driving Permit if your driver's license is suspended, revoked, or expired. You must first renew or restore your license at a Florida DMV office. Once your license is valid again, you can visit AAA or AATA to get the IDP.

Do I need an IDP to rent a car in Miami?

No. An IDP is for driving in other countries, not in the United States. Car rental companies in Miami will accept your U.S. driver's license. You only need an IDP if you are traveling outside the U.S. and plan to drive there.

What happens if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP is no longer valid. If your permit expires during a trip, you should stop driving and use other transportation. Before you travel, check the expiration date and make sure your permit will remain valid for the entire duration of your trip.

Can I use my IDP to drive in all countries?

No. Some countries do not recognize the International Driving Permit at all. Always contact your destination country's embassy or consulate before you travel to confirm what documents you need to drive legally there.