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, and it does not replace your home country's license. You must carry both documents together — the IDP alone is not legal to drive on.

The IDP exists because a police officer in another country may not recognize your home license or be able to read it. The permit shows your name, photo, driving history category, and license number in a format that matches international standards. It is issued by your home country's transportation authority and recognized by most countries that have signed the 1926 Convention on Motor Traffic.

In the United States, you can drive on a valid foreign license if you are visiting temporarily. An IDP makes that easier by providing a translation, but it is not required for short visits. You need one mainly if you plan to rent a car and the rental company requests it, or if you are moving to the U.S. and need to show your driving record before getting a U.S. license.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your home country's license, not a separate license, and you must carry both documents together to drive legally.
  • You obtain an IDP from your home country's transportation authority before you travel, not from any U.S. agency.
  • Most U.S. car rental companies accept a valid foreign license alone, but some require an IDP or will charge less if you have one.
  • If you are moving to the U.S. permanently, you will need to exchange your foreign license for a U.S. state license within a set timeframe, usually 30 to 90 days depending on the state.

Who issues an International Driving Permit and where to get one

Your home country's transportation or motor vehicle authority issues the IDP. In Canada, that is Service Ontario or the equivalent in your province. In the United Kingdom, it is the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). In Australia, it is your state's roads authority. You cannot get an IDP from any U.S. government office.

Contact your home country's transportation authority directly or visit their website to find out what documents you need, what the fee is, and how long processing takes. Most countries require your valid passport, your current driver's license, and a passport-sized photo. Some allow you to explore by mail; others require you to visit an office in person.

The IDP is typically valid for one to three years depending on your home country's rules. Check the expiration date before you travel, because an expired IDP will not be recognized.

When U.S. car rental companies require or recommend an IDP

Most major U.S. car rental chains — Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget — will rent to you with a valid foreign license, a passport, and a credit card. However, some locations or franchises ask for an IDP as well, and a few offer a discount on the rental rate if you have one.

The requirement varies by rental company, location, and the country your license is from. Before you book, call the specific rental location where you plan to pick up the car and ask whether they require an IDP. If you are booking online, check the terms and conditions or contact customer service. Having an IDP on hand removes uncertainty and can speed up the rental process.

If you arrive without an IDP and the rental company requires one, you will not be able to rent the car at that location. You cannot get an IDP quickly in the U.S., so it is safer to obtain one before you travel.

Driving on a foreign license as a visitor versus as a resident

If you are visiting the U.S. temporarily — for vacation, business, or a short stay — you can drive on your valid home country license without an IDP, though an IDP makes it easier if stopped by police. Your home license remains legal as long as it is current and written in English or accompanied by a certified English translation.

If you are moving to the U.S. to live, work, or study, the rules change. Most states allow you to drive on a foreign license for 30 to 90 days after you establish residency. After that period, you must obtain a U.S. driver's license from your state's motor vehicle department. Some states require you to pass a written test and a driving test; others waive the written test if you show a valid foreign license with a clean driving record.

The IDP can help during this transition. When you explore for your U.S. license, bring both your home license and your IDP. The IDP provides a clear translation of your license information and can speed up the process process, especially if your home license is not in English.

What to bring when you drive in the U.S. with a foreign license

Carry your valid home country driver's license and your passport at all times when you drive. If you have an IDP, bring that too. In most U.S. states, a police officer will accept a valid foreign license as proof of your right to drive. Some states prefer or require an English translation if your license is in another language; an IDP serves as that translation.

If you are renting a car, bring your passport, your home license, your IDP (if the rental company requires it), and a valid credit card in your name. Some rental companies also ask for an International Driving Permit number or your home country's license number, so have that information ready.

If you are involved in an accident or pulled over, be honest about your status. Tell the officer you are visiting from another country and show your passport and license. Having an IDP makes the interaction smoother because the officer can read your information without needing to call for a translator.

How an IDP differs from a U.S. state driver's license

An IDP is temporary and country-specific. It is issued by your home country, valid only while you are outside that country, and expires after one to three years. It does not give you any legal status in the U.S. and does not allow you to work or establish residency on its own.

A U.S. state driver's license is permanent (until it expires, usually every 4 to 8 years depending on the state) and proves your identity and right to drive in that state. It is issued by your state's motor vehicle department and is required if you live in the U.S. You obtain it by passing a written test, a vision test, and usually a driving test. Once you have a U.S. license, you no longer need your home country license or IDP to drive in the U.S., though you may keep them for identification purposes.

Getting a U.S. driver's license after moving to the United States

When you move to the U.S., you will need to get a driver's license from your new state's motor vehicle department. The process and timeline vary by state. Some states require you to explore within 30 days of establishing residency; others give you 90 days. Check your state's motor vehicle website for the exact important date.

To explore, bring your passport, your home country license, your IDP (if you have one), proof of your U.S. address (such as a lease or utility bill), and your Social Security number or ITIN if you have one. You will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs, a vision test, and a driving test. Some states waive the written test if you show a valid foreign license with a good driving record; a few waive the driving test as well.

The fee for a U.S. driver's license ranges from about $20 to $100 depending on the state and how long the license is valid. Processing usually takes a few days to a few weeks. During that time, you can drive on your home license as long as you are within the allowed grace period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in all U.S. states with a foreign license?

Yes, as a visitor you can drive in all 50 states on a valid foreign license. However, you must carry your passport and license at all times. If your license is not in English, bring a certified English translation or an International Driving Permit so a police officer can read it.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in the U.S.?

Most rental companies will rent to you with a valid foreign license, passport, and credit card. Some companies or locations request an IDP, and a few offer a discount if you have one. Call your specific rental location before you book to confirm their requirements.

What happens if my IDP expires while I am in the U.S.?

An expired IDP is no longer valid. If you are a visitor, you can still drive on your home country license alone. If you are a resident, you should have already obtained a U.S. driver's license, so the expired IDP does not affect your right to drive.

Can I use an International Driving Permit instead of getting a U.S. driver's license?

No. If you live in the U.S., you must get a state driver's license within the timeframe your state allows (usually 30 to 90 days). An IDP is only for temporary visitors and cannot replace a U.S. license for residents.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit from my home country?

Processing time varies by country. Some countries issue an IDP in a few days; others take several weeks. Contact your home country's transportation authority or check their website for current processing times. explore well before your travel date to avoid delays.