What an International Driving Permit is and whether you need one

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

You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car or drive in most countries outside the United States. Some car rental companies abroad will not rent to you without one, even if your New York license is valid. A few countries do not require it, but carrying one costs little and removes doubt at a rental counter or a police stop.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) — not by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. You cannot get one from the DMV, and you do not need a separate government process.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your New York license and must be carried with your actual license when you drive abroad.
  • You obtain an IDP through AAA or AATA, not through the New York State DMV.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired New York driver's license before you can get an IDP.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years depending on which version you choose.
  • You can get an IDP in person at a local AAA office or by mail if you are not a AAA member.

What you need to bring to get an IDP

You will need your valid New York State driver's license and a passport or other government-issued photo ID. Bring the originals — photocopies are not accepted. You will also need to bring a completed process form, which you can fill out before you arrive or on-site.

If you are explore in person at a AAA office, bring a check or cash for the fee. Some offices accept credit cards, but it varies by location. If you are explore by mail, you will need to include a check or money order — credit card payments are not accepted for mail applications.

You do not need to be a AAA member to get an IDP, though members sometimes receive a small discount. Non-members can explore by mail or at any AAA office that offers the service.

How to get an IDP in person at AAA

Find the nearest AAA office in New York State by visiting the AAA website or calling their customer service line. Not every AAA office issues IDPs, so confirm that your chosen location offers the service before you go.

Bring your valid New York driver's license, a government-issued photo ID, and the completed process form. The staff will review your documents, take a photo if needed, and issue the permit on the spot. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will walk out with your IDP the same day.

The fee is typically $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit, though prices may vary slightly by location. Pay in cash or check at most offices.

How to get an IDP by mail if you are not near AAA

If no AAA office is convenient, you can explore by mail through the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Visit the AATA website, read the process form, and mail it along with your valid New York driver's license, a government-issued photo ID, and a check or money order for the fee.

Include a recent passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches) with your process. Mail everything to the address listed on the AATA form. Processing by mail takes two to three weeks, so plan ahead if you have a specific travel date.

The fee for a mail process is the same as in-person: $15 for one year or $20 for three years. You will receive your IDP by mail at the address you provide on the form.

How long an IDP is valid and what to do when it expires

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year or three years, depending on which version you purchase. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. Your IDP is only valid while your New York driver's license is also valid — if your license expires, your IDP becomes invalid even if the permit itself has not expired yet.

When your IDP expires, you can get a new one by repeating the same process: visiting a AAA office in person or explore by mail through AATA. There is no renewal process — you must explore for a new permit each time.

What to do if you lose your IDP while traveling

If your IDP is lost or stolen abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide guidance on how to proceed with local authorities and your rental car company.

When you return to New York, you can get a replacement IDP by explore again through AAA or AATA. Bring your valid New York driver's license and a government-issued photo ID, just as you would for a new process. There is no special process for replacements — you pay the standard fee and receive a new permit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in another country with just my New York license and no IDP?

Technically, your New York license is valid in many countries, but car rental companies often will not rent to you without an IDP. Some countries also require it by law. Carrying an IDP removes uncertainty and is inexpensive, so it is worth getting before you travel.

Do I need an IDP if I am only visiting another country and not renting a car?

No. An IDP is only necessary if you plan to drive. If you will use public transportation or hire a driver, you do not need one.

How long does it take to get an IDP if I explore in person?

In-person applications at AAA offices are usually completed the same day, taking 15 to 30 minutes. Mail applications through AATA take two to three weeks.

Can I get an IDP if my New York license is suspended or expired?

No. Your New York driver's license must be valid and unexpired. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored and current.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document only — it is not a license itself. You must carry your actual New York driver's license with your IDP at all times when driving abroad. The IDP has no legal authority on its own.