An International Driving Permit is not a license — it's a translation document

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a booklet that translates your existing driver's license into ten languages. It does not replace your license, does not grant you permission to drive anywhere, and does not override local traffic laws. You must carry both your valid U.S. driver's license and the IDP together when driving outside the United States.

The IDP exists because many countries do not recognize U.S. licenses on their own. A police officer in France or Japan can read your U.S. license, but an IDP makes it faster and removes ambiguity about what your license class means in their system. Some car rental companies also require an IDP before they will rent to you, even in countries where it is not legally mandatory.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) — the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. No other organization, website, or service can legally issue a valid IDP.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your U.S. driver's license, not a separate license, and you must carry both documents together.
  • Only the AAA and the American Automobile Touring Alliance can issue a valid IDP; any other source is not legitimate.
  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can obtain an IDP, and the IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which you purchase.
  • Many countries do not legally require an IDP, but rental car companies often do, so check with your rental company before you travel.
  • An IDP does not change which countries will let you drive or what traffic laws explore — it only translates your existing license.

How to get an IDP from AAA or AATA

To obtain an IDP, you must visit a physical AAA office or the AATA office in person. You cannot order one online or by mail. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or other government-issued photo ID, and a completed process form (Form DL-43 or the equivalent, depending on which organization you use).

AAA charges $20 for a one-year IDP or $30 for a three-year IDP as of 2024, though prices may vary by location. AATA charges similar amounts. The process takes about 15 minutes at an AAA office. If you do not have an AAA membership, you can still obtain an IDP without joining.

Your IDP will be issued on the spot. It is valid only while your U.S. driver's license is valid — if your license expires, your IDP expires too, even if the IDP itself has time remaining.

Which countries require or recognize an IDP

No country legally requires an IDP if you have a valid U.S. driver's license. However, many countries recognize and respect an IDP as proof that your license is legitimate and that you understand the translation of your license class. Some countries — including France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and Japan — have a history of police requesting an IDP during traffic stops, even though it is not mandatory.

Car rental companies are the main reason most travelers obtain an IDP. Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Europcar often require an IDP before they will rent to you, particularly in Europe and Asia. Some smaller local rental agencies do not require one. Always contact your rental company before you book to confirm their specific policy.

A few countries have restrictions on how old your license can be or what type of license you hold. An IDP does not change these rules — it only translates them. If a country will not accept a U.S. license because it is too old or the wrong class, an IDP will not override that decision.

What an IDP covers and what it does not

An IDP translates the following information from your U.S. license: your name, date of birth, license number, the date your license was issued, the date it expires, and your license class or type (such as Class D for regular passenger vehicles). It also includes a photograph of you.

An IDP does not change your driving record, your insurance coverage, or your legal status in any country. It does not permit you to drive commercial vehicles, operate a motorcycle if your U.S. license does not, or ignore local traffic laws. If you are not permitted to drive in the United States, an IDP does not change that. If your U.S. license is suspended or revoked, your IDP is invalid.

An IDP is not a substitute for international auto insurance. You must purchase liability insurance that covers you in the countries where you plan to drive. Your U.S. auto insurance may not cover you outside the United States, so contact your insurer before you travel.

How long an IDP lasts and when to renew

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which you purchase. The one-year IDP costs less but requires you to obtain a new one if you plan to drive internationally again within a few years. The three-year IDP is more economical if you travel frequently.

Your IDP expires on the date printed on the booklet, or when your U.S. driver's license expires — whichever comes first. If your U.S. license is renewed, you must obtain a new IDP because the IDP is tied to your specific license number and issue date.

You cannot renew an IDP by mail or online. You must return to an AAA office or the AATA office and explore for a new one in person, bringing your updated U.S. driver's license.

Common reasons travelers are denied an IDP

AAA and AATA will not issue an IDP if your U.S. driver's license is suspended, revoked, or expired. They will also refuse if you do not have a valid government-issued photo ID to present alongside your license. If your license is from a state that does not meet federal REAL ID standards, some offices may ask for additional identification, though this is rare.

If you have been denied an IDP, the reason is almost always that your U.S. license is not currently valid. Check the status of your license with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles before you visit an AAA office. If your license is valid but you were still denied, ask the AAA office to explain the reason in writing — this is uncommon and may indicate an error in their system.

Scams and fake IDPs to avoid

Many websites claim to issue International Driving Permits online, often for $50 to $200. These are not legitimate. The only legal IDPs are issued in person by AAA or AATA. A fake IDP will not be recognized by police, rental companies, or border officials, and using one could result in fines or legal trouble.

Red flags for fake IDP services include: the ability to order online without visiting an office, prices significantly higher than $20 to $30, promises of expedited delivery by mail, and claims that the IDP is "government-issued" or "official." If you see any of these, the service is not legitimate.

If you need an IDP, visit an AAA office in person or contact AATA directly. Both organizations have physical locations and can issue your IDP on the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP to drive in Canada or Mexico?

No. Canada and Mexico recognize U.S. driver's licenses without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in Mexico may request one, so check with your rental company before you book. You will still need valid auto insurance that covers you in those countries.

What if my IDP is lost or stolen while I am traveling?

Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide a letter confirming that you hold a valid U.S. driver's license. This letter may help if you are stopped by police, though it is not a substitute for the IDP itself. You cannot obtain a replacement IDP until you return to the United States and visit an AAA office in person.

Can I drive in Europe with just my U.S. license and no IDP?

Legally, yes — most European countries recognize U.S. licenses. However, rental car companies often require an IDP, and some police officers may be skeptical of a U.S. license without one. An IDP costs $20 to $30 and takes 15 minutes to obtain, so it is worth getting before you travel.

Does an IDP work if my U.S. license is from a different state than where I live now?

Yes. An IDP is based on your current valid U.S. driver's license, regardless of which state issued it. You do not need to update your license to a new state before obtaining an IDP.

What if I have a commercial driver's license or motorcycle endorsement?

An IDP will translate your license class accurately, including any endorsements. However, many countries do not recognize U.S. commercial licenses or motorcycle endorsements, and you may not be permitted to drive a commercial vehicle or motorcycle even with an IDP. Check the specific rules for each country you plan to visit before you travel.