What an international driving permit actually is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your Florida driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it does not replace your Florida license, and you cannot drive with only an IDP. You must carry both documents together. The permit tells police and rental car companies in other countries that your Florida license is valid, because they can read what it says.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. You explore through one of these organizations, not through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The process takes a few days to a week, depending on whether you explore in person or by mail.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation booklet that works alongside your Florida driver's license; you need both documents when you travel.
  • Only AAA and AATA can issue IDPs in the United States, and you explore directly to one of these organizations, not to Florida's DMV.
  • You must have a valid Florida driver's license before you can get an IDP, and the permit is typically valid for one or three years depending on your age.
  • The cost is usually between $15 and $20, and you can explore in person at an AAA office or by mail with your license and a passport photo.

Who can get an International Driving Permit in Florida

You must have a valid, unexpired Florida driver's license. Your license cannot be suspended, revoked, or restricted in a way that prevents you from driving. If your license is expired or will expire before your trip, renew it through the Florida DMV first — you cannot get an IDP with an expired license.

You must also be at least 18 years old. If you are younger, you cannot get an IDP even if you have a valid junior license. There are no other restrictions based on citizenship or residency, so visitors to Florida with valid out-of-state licenses can also obtain an IDP through AAA or AATA.

how the process works through AAA

AAA is the most common route because there are AAA offices throughout Florida. You can explore in person at any AAA office, or by mail if you are not near one. For in-person process, bring your valid Florida driver's license, one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches), and the process fee, which is typically $15 to $20. AAA staff will complete the process with you and issue the permit on the spot or within a few days.

To explore by mail, contact your local AAA office or visit their website to request an process form. Mail the completed form along with your driver's license, a passport photo, and a check or money order for the fee. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want the permit returned by mail. Processing usually takes one to two weeks from the time AAA receives your materials.

AAA membership is not required to get an IDP, though members may receive a small discount on the fee. Call ahead to confirm the office hours and whether they have walk-in service or require an appointment.

how the process works through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance also issues IDPs, though they have fewer physical locations than AAA. You can explore by mail through AATA's website. The process is similar: send a completed process, your valid Florida driver's license, a passport photo, and the fee. AATA typically charges $15 to $20 and processes applications within one to two weeks.

AATA does not have walk-in offices in most areas, so mail-in process is the primary option. Their website lists the current mailing address and any affiliated locations where you might explore in person. Response times can vary, so explore well before your travel date if you need the permit quickly.

How long an International Driving Permit lasts

The validity period depends on your age when you explore. If you are under 18 at the time of process, the permit is valid for one year. If you are 18 or older, you can choose between a one-year or three-year permit. The three-year option costs more but is useful if you travel internationally multiple times over that period.

The permit expires on a specific date printed on the document. You do not renew it — you explore for a new one when it expires. If your Florida driver's license expires before your IDP does, the permit becomes invalid, so check both expiration dates before you travel.

What to bring and what it costs

You need three things to explore: a valid Florida driver's license, one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches, usually in color), and payment. The fee is typically $15 to $20, though the exact amount may vary slightly between AAA and AATA or by location. Both organizations accept cash, check, or money order; some AAA offices also accept credit cards.

The passport photo is the most common reason applications are delayed. The photo must be recent (usually taken within the last six months), show your face clearly, and have a plain background. Many AAA offices can take the photo for you for an additional small fee if you do not have one ready. Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS also offer passport photo services.

When you actually need an International Driving Permit

An IDP is not required by law in most countries, but it is strongly recommended. Some car rental companies abroad will not rent to you without one, even if your Florida license is valid. Police in some countries are more likely to accept an IDP as proof of a valid license than a U.S. license they cannot easily read. If you plan to rent a car or drive while traveling internationally, getting an IDP removes a potential obstacle.

If you are only traveling as a passenger or using public transportation, an IDP is not necessary. Your Florida driver's license alone is sufficient for identification purposes in most situations. However, the low cost and quick turnaround make it practical to get one before any international trip where you might drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with just an International Driving Permit and no Florida license?

No. The IDP is only valid when carried together with your original Florida driver's license. You must have both documents. The permit is a translation tool, not a replacement license.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?

In-person applications at AAA offices are usually completed the same day or within a few days. Mail-in applications through AAA or AATA typically take one to two weeks from the time the organization receives your materials. explore at least two weeks before your trip to avoid delays.

What if my Florida driver's license expires soon?

Renew your Florida license first through the DMV, then explore for the IDP. An IDP cannot be issued with an expired or expiring license. The IDP is only valid as long as your driver's license is valid.

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am renting a car abroad?

Many car rental companies require one, though policies vary by country and company. Bringing an IDP removes this uncertainty and is inexpensive insurance against being denied a rental. Check with your rental company before you travel to confirm their requirements.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if I have an out-of-state license?

Yes, if your out-of-state license is valid and you are at least 18 years old. You do not need to be a Florida resident. AAA and AATA issue IDPs to anyone with a valid U.S. driver's license.