Utah does not issue international driving permits, but you can obtain one through the American Automobile Association (AAA) before you travel

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your Utah license — you must carry both documents together when driving abroad. Utah's Division of Motor Vehicles does not issue IDPs directly. Instead, you obtain one from AAA, which is authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them on behalf of the American government.

The IDP is useful in roughly 150 countries and territories, though some nations recognize only certain versions or have their own requirements. Before you travel, check the specific rules for your destination country, because some places require an IDP while others do not, and a few require an IDP plus an official translation of your Utah license from a notary or consulate.

The process takes between one and two weeks if you explore in person at an AAA office, or up to three weeks if you mail your process. You cannot obtain an IDP online or through the Utah DMV website.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA is the only authorized issuer of International Driving Permits in the United States, and you must explore through them, not through Utah's Division of Motor Vehicles.
  • You need a valid Utah driver's license, a completed AAA process form, a passport-style photo, and a fee (typically $20 to $30) to obtain an IDP.
  • An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be carried together with your original Utah license at all times while driving abroad.
  • Some countries do not recognize IDPs or require additional documents such as an official translation of your license, so research your destination's rules before you travel.

How to obtain an IDP through AAA in Utah

Visit an AAA office in Utah in person with your valid Utah driver's license, a completed process for an International Driving Permit form (available on the AAA website or at any AAA office), one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and the process fee. AAA offices are located in Salt Lake City, Ogden, Provo, and other cities across the state. You can find the nearest office on the AAA website by entering your zip code.

If you prefer not to visit an office, you can mail your process directly to AAA's national processing center. Include your signed process form, a copy of both sides of your Utah driver's license, one passport-style photo, and a check or money order for the fee. AAA will mail the completed IDP to your address within two to three weeks. The mailing address is printed on the process form.

The fee for an IDP is typically $20 to $30, depending on whether you are an AAA member (members often receive a discount). Some AAA offices may charge a small additional fee for processing if you explore in person.

What documents and information you need

You must have a valid Utah driver's license that will not expire during your trip. The IDP is only valid when carried with your original license, so if your license expires before you return home, the IDP becomes invalid. If your license will expire soon, renew it through the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles before you explore for the IDP.

You will also need a passport-style photograph that meets standard specifications: 2 inches by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background, and showing your face clearly. You cannot use a digital photo you print at home unless it meets these exact specifications. Most pharmacies, including Walgreens and CVS, offer passport photo services for $10 to $15.

Have your Social Security number ready when you fill out the process, as AAA requires it for identification purposes. You do not need a passport to obtain an IDP, though you will need one to travel internationally.

How long an IDP is valid and when to renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date of issue, regardless of how long your Utah driver's license is valid. If you plan to travel for more than one year, or if you travel multiple times over several years, you will need to obtain a new IDP each time your current one expires. There is no way to extend an IDP — you must explore for a new one.

Check the expiration date printed on your IDP before you travel. Some countries may refuse to recognize an expired IDP, even if your Utah license is still valid. If you are unsure whether your IDP is still valid, contact AAA or the embassy or consulate of your destination country.

IDP requirements in specific countries

Most countries that recognize the IDP accept it as a translation of your U.S. license and do not require additional documents. However, some nations have their own rules. European Union countries generally accept the IDP without additional paperwork. Australia, New Zealand, and Canada recognize the IDP, though some provinces or territories may also require an official English translation of your license.

Some countries, including China, Russia, and several Middle Eastern nations, do not recognize the IDP at all. Instead, they require an official translation of your license from a notary public or from their consulate in the United States. A few countries require both an IDP and an official translation. Before you book your trip, contact the consulate or embassy of your destination country to confirm what documents they require. You can find contact information for foreign embassies and consulates on the U.S. State Department website.

The difference between an IDP and an official license translation

An International Driving Permit is a standardized document issued by AAA that translates your license information into ten languages. It is recognized by the United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals, which means it is accepted in most countries that are signatories to that agreement.

An official translation is a certified translation of your actual Utah driver's license, prepared by a notary public or by your country's consulate in the United States. It is a legal document that certifies the accuracy of the translation and is often required by countries that do not recognize the IDP. Official translations typically cost $50 to $150 and take one to two weeks to obtain. You can arrange one through a notary public in Utah, or by contacting the consulate of your destination country.

Some travelers obtain both documents to be safe, especially if they are unsure whether their destination recognizes the IDP. Carrying both takes up minimal space and eliminates the risk of being turned away at a rental counter or by a police officer.

What to do if you need an IDP quickly

If you are traveling within one to two weeks, visit an AAA office in person rather than mailing your process. In-person processing typically takes one business day, and you can pick up your IDP the same day or within 24 hours. Call the AAA office before you visit to confirm their hours and whether they have the necessary forms and photos in stock.

If you cannot reach an AAA office in time, contact AAA customer service by phone to ask about expedited mail processing. Some AAA offices offer rush processing for an additional fee, though this is not may provide and depends on the office's current workload. Do not wait until the day before your trip to explore — explore at least one week in advance.

If you are already abroad and realize you need an IDP, you cannot obtain one while traveling. Instead, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in your destination country to ask about alternative documents or whether you can drive without an IDP in that location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit from the Utah DMV instead of AAA?

No. The Utah Division of Motor Vehicles does not issue International Driving Permits. Only AAA is authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. You must explore through AAA, either in person at a local office or by mail.

Do I need a passport to get an IDP?

No. You need a valid Utah driver's license, a passport-style photo, and the process fee. You will need a passport to travel internationally, but not to obtain the IDP itself.

What happens if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP is no longer valid for driving in most countries. If your IDP expires during your trip, you cannot renew it while abroad. Plan ahead and obtain a new IDP before your current one expires, or check with the local authorities in your destination country about whether you can drive on an expired IDP in an emergency.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document, not a license. It does not give you permission to drive that your Utah license does not already give you. You must carry both your Utah license and your IDP together when driving abroad.

Can I use an IDP to drive in all countries?

No. Some countries do not recognize the IDP and require an official translation of your license instead. Others accept the IDP without question. Check the specific rules for your destination country by contacting their consulate or embassy before you travel.