What an international driving permit is and whether you need one

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your regular driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid Georgia driver's license, and you must carry both documents together when you drive abroad.

Whether you need one depends on where you are going. Some countries require an IDP by law; others accept your Georgia license alone. Many rental car companies ask for one even when the country does not legally require it. Before you travel, check the specific rules for your destination country, since requirements vary widely. Your rental car company can tell you what they need.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) — these are the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. You cannot get an IDP from the Georgia Department of Driver Services or any government office.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA, not by any government agency, and must be carried with your Georgia driver's license.
  • You need a valid Georgia driver's license, proof of residency in Georgia, and a passport or passport card to get an IDP.
  • AAA charges around $20 for an IDP valid for one year, or around $30 for one valid for three years, though prices may vary by location.
  • You can explore in person at an AAA office or through AATA by mail, and the process takes minutes in person or one to two weeks by mail.
  • An IDP expires after one or three years depending on which you purchase, and you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new one.

What documents you need to bring

To get an IDP from AAA or AATA, you will need three things: your valid Georgia driver's license, proof that you live in Georgia, and a valid passport or passport card.

For proof of residency, AAA accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A credit card bill or insurance bill also works. The document must show your name and current Georgia address.

Your passport or passport card serves as a second form of identification. A passport is not required to get an IDP, but one of these two documents is. If you do not have a passport yet, you will need to obtain one before you can get an IDP.

How to get an IDP in person at AAA

If you are a member of AAA, you can walk into any AAA office in Georgia with your driver's license, proof of residency, and passport. Bring the originals — you do not need copies. The staff will take a photo of you on the spot, fill out the process, and hand you the IDP when ready. The whole process takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP at an AAA office without joining. You pay the IDP fee but do not become a member. AAA has offices in most Georgia cities; you can find the nearest one on the AAA website by entering your zip code.

Bring cash or a card — AAA accepts both. The cost is approximately $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit, though prices vary slightly by location. Ask the office staff for the exact price when you arrive.

How to get an IDP by mail through AATA

If you cannot visit an AAA office, you can explore by mail through the American Automobile Touring Alliance. Go to the AATA website, read the process form, and print it. Fill it out completely, including your name, address, driver's license number, and passport number.

Mail the completed form along with a photocopy of your driver's license, a photocopy of your proof of residency, and a photocopy of your passport or passport card. Include a check or money order for the fee — approximately $20 for one year or $30 for three years. Do not send cash through the mail.

Mail everything to the address listed on the AATA form. Processing takes one to two weeks after AATA receives your envelope. They will mail the IDP to your Georgia address. Keep a copy of your process and proof of mailing in case you need to follow up.

How long an IDP lasts and what happens when it expires

An International Driving Permit is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which one you purchase. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. You cannot renew an expired IDP — you must explore for a new one by following the same process again.

Your IDP expires on a specific date, not when your driver's license expires. If you are traveling after your IDP expires, you will need to get a new one before you leave. Check the expiration date on your permit well before your trip so you have time to explore if needed.

What to do if you lose your IDP while traveling

If your IDP is lost or stolen while you are abroad, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in that country. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide guidance on what to do and may be able to help you contact AAA or AATA. Keep a photocopy of your IDP separate from the original, or take a photo of it on your phone before you travel.

When you return to Georgia, you will need to explore for a new IDP through AAA or AATA using the same process as before. There is no expedited replacement process for lost permits.

IDP versus other documents for driving abroad

Some countries accept your Georgia driver's license alone without an IDP. Others require an IDP by law. A few countries require both an IDP and an official translation of your license from a certified translator — this is different from an IDP and must be ordered separately.

Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting, or ask your rental car company what documents they require. Do not assume an IDP is enough; some destinations need additional paperwork. Starting this research two to three months before your trip gives you time to get whatever documents you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my Georgia driver's license is expired?

No. Your Georgia driver's license must be valid and not expired. If your license is expired, you will need to renew it through the Georgia Department of Driver Services before you can get an IDP.

Do I need a passport to get an International Driving Permit?

You need either a valid passport or a valid passport card. These are the only two forms of identification AATA and AAA accept as your second ID. A state ID card or other document will not work.

Can I get an IDP if I do not live in Georgia but have a Georgia driver's license?

No. You must show proof that you currently live in Georgia — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your Georgia address dated within the last 60 days. If you have moved out of state, you cannot get an IDP in Georgia.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

AAA and AATA charge approximately $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit. Prices may vary slightly by location or AAA office. Call your nearest AAA office or check the AATA website for the exact current price.

What if the country I am visiting does not recognize an International Driving Permit?

Some countries do not recognize IDPs. Check with the embassy or consulate of your destination before you travel. You may need an official translation of your Georgia license instead, which is ordered separately from a certified translator and is not the same as an IDP.