How to Get an International Driving Permit in New York City

What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual New York State driver's license, and you must carry both together when you drive abroad. The IDP lets police, rental companies, and border officials in other countries read your license information without needing a translator.

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 cannot get one from the DMV. The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue, and it costs between $15 and $20 depending on which organization issues it.

You need a valid New York State driver's license before you can get an IDP. The IDP does not replace your license and cannot be used to drive in New York or anywhere in the United States — it is only for use outside the country.

Key Takeaways

An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA, not by the New York DMV, and costs $15 to $20.
You must have a valid New York State driver's license before you can get an IDP, and you must carry both documents together when driving abroad.
The IDP is valid for one year and translates your license into ten languages for use outside the United States.
You can get an IDP in person at an AAA office in New York City, or by mail if you are not a member, though membership speeds up the process.

Getting an IDP Through AAA in Person

The fastest way to get an IDP in New York City is to visit an AAA office in person. AAA has multiple locations throughout the city, including offices in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. You can find the nearest office and its hours on the AAA website by entering your zip code.

Bring your valid New York State driver's license and one form of identification with a photo (your passport works). You will also need to bring a completed process form — AAA Form 14 — which you can fill out at the office or read and bring with you. If you are an AAA member, bring your membership card. The entire process takes about 15 minutes, and you will walk out with your IDP the same day.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP at an AAA office, but membership can speed things up. AAA membership is optional for getting an IDP, but members sometimes get priority service. The cost is the same whether you are a member or not.

Getting an IDP by Mail

If you cannot visit an AAA office in person, you can request an IDP by mail. AAA accepts mail applications from anywhere in the United States. You will need to send your completed AAA Form 14, a photocopy of your valid driver's license, and a photocopy of one form of photo identification (passport, state ID, or military ID). Include a check or money order for the fee — currently $15 for AAA members and $20 for non-members — made out to AAA.

Mail your process to the AAA address listed on their website for your region. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks. You can also request an IDP through the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) by mail using the same process and similar fees.

Do not send cash through the mail. Use a check, money order, or credit card if the office accepts it. Keep a copy of everything you send in case you need to follow up.

What to Bring and How to Fill Out the process

AAA Form 14 is a one-page process that asks for your name, address, date of birth, driver's license number, and the date your license expires. You can read it from the AAA website before you go, or fill it out at the office. The form takes about five minutes to complete.

You will need to provide one form of photo identification in addition to your driver's license. A U.S. passport is the most common choice, but a state ID card, military ID, or passport card also works. The photo ID must be current and not expired.

If you are explore by mail, you must send photocopies of both your driver's license and your photo ID. Do not send originals — send copies only. Write your name and driver's license number on the back of each photocopy so the office can match them to your process.

Using Your IDP When You Travel

When you drive outside the United States, carry both your New York State driver's license and your IDP together at all times. Police and rental car companies will want to see both documents. The IDP is not valid without your actual license, and your license alone may not be understood by officials in some countries.

Different countries have different rules about which documents they accept. Some countries require an IDP in addition to your U.S. license; others accept only your U.S. license. Before you travel, check the specific requirements for the country or countries where you plan to drive. Your rental car company can tell you what they require, or you can contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting.

The IDP expires one year from the date it is issued. If your trip is more than a year away, you can wait to get your IDP closer to your travel date. If your driver's license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid — you need both documents to be current.

IDP Renewal and Replacement

When your IDP expires, you cannot renew it — you must get a new one. The process is identical to getting your first IDP: visit an AAA office, fill out Form 14, bring your current driver's license and photo ID, and pay the fee. You can get a new IDP at any time, even if your current one has not expired yet, if you are planning another trip.

If your IDP is lost or damaged, you can request a replacement by contacting the AAA office where you got it. You will need to provide your name and driver's license number. Replacement fees vary but are typically the same as the original fee. If you got your IDP by mail, contact the AAA regional office that issued it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in the United States with an International Driving Permit?

No. An IDP is only for use outside the United States. You must have a valid New York State driver's license to drive anywhere in the U.S., including New York City. The IDP is a translation document only and cannot replace your state license.

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

It depends on the country and the rental company. Many countries and rental companies require or strongly recommend an IDP in addition to your U.S. license. Contact your rental company before you book to find out what they require. Some countries have specific laws about which documents are required by law.

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

In person at an AAA office, you can get an IDP the same day — the process takes about 15 minutes. By mail, processing typically takes two to three weeks. Plan ahead if you are traveling soon.

What if my driver's license expires before my IDP does?

Your IDP becomes invalid if your driver's license expires. You must have both documents current to use the IDP abroad. If you are renewing your license, you will also need to get a new IDP after your license is renewed.

Can I get an International Driving Permit from the New York DMV?

No. The New York DMV does not issue IDPs. Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue them. You must go to an AAA office or explore by mail through AAA or AATA.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.