What an international driving permit actually is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your US driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it does not replace your state license, and you cannot drive with only an IDP. You must carry both documents together, and the IDP is valid only when your US license is also valid.

The IDP exists because some countries do not recognize a US driver's license as proof of driving authority on its own. Police in those countries may not understand what your state license means or whether you are legally allowed to drive. The IDP, issued under an international treaty, tells them your license is legitimate.

You need an IDP only if you plan to rent a car or drive in another country. If you are traveling as a passenger, or if you are visiting a country that recognizes US licenses (many do), you do not need one.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation document that must be carried with your US driver's license; it is not a license itself.
  • The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized by the US State Department to issue IDPs.
  • You must have a valid US driver's license before you can get an IDP, and the IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which organization issues it.
  • The process takes minutes in person at an AAA office or AATA location, and costs between $15 and $20 depending on the issuer.
  • Check your destination country's requirements before you travel, because some countries do not recognize IDPs or have additional rules about who can drive.

Who can issue an IDP in the United States

Only two organizations are authorized by the US State Department to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No other organization, website, or service can legally issue a US IDP.

AAA is the larger and more widely available option. It has local offices in most states, and you can find the nearest one on its website. AATA is smaller and has fewer locations, but it serves the same purpose. Both issue the same document and both are recognized internationally.

Do not use online services that claim to issue IDPs. These are scams or fraudulent operations. The only legitimate way to get an IDP is to visit an AAA office or AATA location in person, or to mail your documents to one of these organizations.

What you need before you go

Bring your valid US driver's license and a passport or other government-issued photo ID. You will also need to fill out an process form, which both AAA and AATA provide on-site — you do not need to print it ahead of time.

You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver's license from a US state or territory. If your license is expired, you cannot get an IDP until you renew it. If you have a learner's permit or a restricted license, check with the issuing organization first, because some restrictions may prevent you from getting an IDP.

Bring a passport-sized photo if you are using AATA, because some locations require one. AAA does not require a photo. Call ahead to confirm what your local office needs.

How long the IDP is valid and what it costs

AAA issues IDPs valid for one year, and AATA issues them valid for three years. Both are valid only while your US driver's license is also valid. If your license expires, your IDP expires too, even if the IDP itself has time remaining.

AAA charges $15 for a one-year IDP. AATA charges $20 for a three-year IDP. Both organizations may charge a small additional fee if you are not a member, or if you are mailing in your process instead of visiting in person. Check the organization's website or call ahead for the exact fee at your location.

The IDP is issued on the spot at AAA offices, usually within minutes. AATA may take longer depending on the location. If you mail in your process, allow two to three weeks for processing and return mail.

Finding an AAA or AATA office near you

To find an AAA office, go to AAA.com and use the office locator. Most AAA offices issue IDPs during regular business hours, but some smaller locations may not. Call ahead to confirm that your nearest office issues IDPs and to ask about wait times.

To find an AATA location, visit the AATA website and search for member organizations in your state. AATA does not operate its own offices — instead, it authorizes travel agencies and other organizations to issue IDPs on its behalf. The website will show you which locations near you are authorized.

Both organizations are open during standard business hours, usually Monday through Friday and sometimes Saturday mornings. Bring your documents and be prepared to wait if the office is busy, though the process itself takes only a few minutes.

What to do if you are traveling soon

If you need an IDP before your trip, visit an AAA or AATA office in person rather than mailing in your process. The in-person process is when ready, while mail takes two to three weeks.

If no AAA or AATA office is near you, or if you cannot visit during business hours, check whether your destination country actually requires an IDP. Many countries recognize US driver's licenses without one, and some do not recognize IDPs at all. Your car rental company can tell you what documents the country requires. If an IDP is not required, you can travel with just your US license.

If you are leaving within days and cannot reach an office, contact AAA or AATA directly by phone to ask about emergency or expedited options. Some locations may be able to help you, though this is not may provide.

What happens when you travel with your IDP

Carry both your US driver's license and your IDP together at all times while driving in another country. Police may ask to see both documents. The IDP is a translation aid — it does not give you any driving rights you do not already have with your US license.

Some countries have additional requirements beyond the IDP. You may need an International Certificate of Motor Vehicle Registration, proof of insurance, or a vehicle registration document. Your car rental company will tell you what you need before you pick up the car. Do not assume the IDP is all you need.

If you are stopped by police and do not have your IDP, you may be fined or have trouble proving you are a licensed driver. Having both documents with you prevents this problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your IDP is valid only while your US driver's license is valid. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP, and any IDP you already have is no longer valid.

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

Canada and Mexico both recognize US driver's licenses without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in those countries may request one, so check with your rental company before you travel. Having an IDP does not hurt and may make the rental process faster.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact your car rental company or your country's US embassy or consulate. They may be able to help you get a replacement or confirm your license status with local police. You can also continue driving with just your US license in most countries, though police may be less familiar with it.

Is an IDP the same as an International License?

Yes, these terms mean the same thing. "International Driving Permit" and "International License" both refer to the same document. It is not a separate license — it is a translation of your US license.

How long does it take to get an IDP if I order online?

Do not order an IDP online from any website. Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue them, and neither sells them through third-party websites. Any online service claiming to issue an IDP is not legitimate. Visit an AAA office or AATA location in person, or mail your process directly to one of these organizations.