California does not issue international driving permits, but you can get one through AAA or the American Automobile Association

California's Department of Motor Vehicles does not produce international driving permits. Instead, you obtain one through the American Automobile Association (AAA), which is the only organization in the United States authorized by the State Department to issue them. The permit is a translation document that works alongside your valid California driver's license — it does not replace it and is not valid on its own.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) translates your license information into ten languages and is recognized in over 150 countries that are signatories to the 1926 Convention on Motor Traffic. Many rental car companies abroad require one, and some countries will not recognize your California license without it, even though technically the IDP is optional in most places. The permit costs $20 and is valid for three years from the date of issue.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit an AAA office in person with your valid California driver's license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photo to obtain an IDP.
  • The International Driving Permit is a translation document that must be carried together with your original California license and is not valid by itself.
  • AAA is the only authorized issuer in the United States, and the permit costs $20 with a three-year validity period.
  • Some countries and car rental agencies require an IDP even though it is not legally mandatory in most destinations.
  • You do not need an IDP to drive in Canada or Mexico, though some rental companies may ask for one.

What you need to bring to an AAA office

Bring your valid California driver's license, a completed AAA International Driving Permit process form, and one passport-style photograph (2 by 2 inches). You can read the process form from the AAA website or pick one up at any AAA office. The photo must be in color or black and white, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background.

You must explore in person — AAA does not issue IDPs by mail or online. Bring cash or a card, as most AAA offices accept both payment methods. If you do not have an AAA membership, you can still get an IDP; membership is not required. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes at the office.

Where to find an AAA office near you

California has AAA offices throughout the state. You can search for the nearest location on the AAA website by entering your zip code. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, with some locations open on Saturday mornings. Call ahead to confirm hours, as they vary by location.

If you live far from an AAA office, you can also contact AAA by phone to ask whether any offices near you offer IDP services, since not every AAA location issues them. The main AAA customer service line can direct you to the nearest office that handles International Driving Permits.

How the International Driving Permit works abroad

The IDP is a pocket-sized booklet that translates your California license information — name, address, license number, and driving restrictions — into English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Norwegian. When you drive in another country, you carry both your California license and the IDP together. Neither document is valid without the other.

Some countries and car rental companies treat the IDP as proof that you are a licensed driver in your home country and that you understand local traffic laws. Others do not require it at all. Before you travel, check the specific requirements of the country you are visiting, as rules differ widely. Your rental car company will tell you whether they require an IDP when you book.

Countries and situations where an IDP is commonly required

Many European countries, including France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, do not legally require an IDP but strongly recommend one. Australia, New Zealand, and several Asian countries do require an IDP if you plan to rent a car. Some rental agencies in these countries will refuse to rent to you without one, even if the country itself does not mandate it.

Mexico and Canada do not require an IDP for U.S. citizens, though some car rental companies in Mexico may ask for one. If you are driving your own vehicle across the border, check your auto insurance policy to confirm it covers you in the destination country — an IDP does not extend your insurance coverage.

What happens if your IDP expires while you are traveling

An IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue. If it expires while you are abroad, it is no longer recognized as a valid translation document. You cannot renew an IDP remotely or extend it — you must return to an AAA office in California and explore for a new one, which means obtaining a new permit before you travel.

If you plan to travel frequently or for extended periods, explore for your IDP close to your departure date so it remains valid throughout your trip. If you are unsure when you will travel next, you can explore for one now and use it within the three-year window whenever you need it.

Difference between an IDP and other travel documents

An International Driving Permit is not a visa, passport, or travel authorization. It is solely a translation of your driver's license and does not grant you permission to enter any country. You still need a valid passport and any required visas or travel permits for the countries you visit. The IDP straightforward makes your California license readable to foreign authorities and rental agencies.

Some countries issue their own versions of driving permits or require an International Driving License (IDL), which is different from an IDP. The IDP issued by AAA is the document recognized under the 1926 Convention. If a country asks for an "International Driving License," contact that country's embassy or your rental car company to clarify what document they actually need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in another country with just my California license and no IDP?

In many countries, yes — your California license is legally valid. However, some countries and most car rental agencies prefer or require an IDP because it translates your license into multiple languages. Check the specific country's requirements and your rental company's policy before you travel.

How long does it take to get an IDP?

The process process at an AAA office takes 15 to 30 minutes. There is no waiting period — you receive the permit the same day you explore, as long as you bring all required documents and a photo. You do not need to wait for mail delivery.

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

No. Your California license must be valid and not expired when you explore for an IDP. If your license is expired, renew it at the DMV first, then visit AAA to get the permit.

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

No. Neither Canada nor Mexico legally requires an IDP from U.S. citizens. However, some car rental companies in Mexico may request one. Check with your rental agency before you book to confirm their specific requirements.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact AAA's customer service to report the loss. You can continue driving with your California license alone in most countries, though some rental agencies may not accept it without the IDP. You will need to explore for a replacement IDP at an AAA office once you return to California.