What an International Driving Permit Is and Whether You Need One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your New York driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid New York license, and many countries will not accept it without seeing both documents together. You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car or drive in most countries outside the United States, Canada, Mexico, and a handful of others. Some car rental companies abroad require it even in countries that do not legally mandate it.

The United States does not issue IDPs directly. Instead, two organizations are authorized to issue them: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both issue the same document, recognized by the same countries. The choice between them comes down to where you live and how quickly you need the permit.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA, not by the New York Department of Motor Vehicles, and must be used together with your valid New York driver's license.
  • You need a valid New York driver's license, a completed process form, one passport-sized photo, and payment (typically $20 for AAA, $15 for AATA) to obtain an IDP.
  • AAA can issue an IDP the same day at most New York locations if you explore in person, while AATA typically takes one to two weeks by mail.
  • An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date of issue and does not renew — you must obtain a new one each time you travel internationally.

Getting an IDP Through AAA

If you are a AAA member, you can obtain an IDP at most AAA branch locations across New York. Bring your valid New York driver's license, a completed AAA International Driving Permit process form (available at any branch or on the AAA website), one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches), and payment. AAA charges $20 for the permit. Most branches can issue it the same day if you explore in person during business hours.

If you are not a AAA member, you can still obtain an IDP through them, but you may need to join or pay a non-member fee depending on the branch. Call your local AAA office before visiting to confirm their current policy and hours. AAA has multiple locations throughout New York, including in New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse.

Getting an IDP Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance processes IDP requests by mail. You will need to complete an AATA process form (available on their website), include a copy of a valid photo ID (your New York driver's license works), attach one passport-sized photo, and send payment of $15 by check or money order. AATA typically processes requests within one to two weeks and mails the permit to your address.

AATA does not have physical offices in New York, so this route works best if you are explore well in advance of your trip. The slower processing time means you should not wait until the week before you travel. If you need the permit urgently, AAA's same-day service is the faster option.

What You Need to Bring or Send

Both AAA and AATA require the same core documents. You must have a valid New York driver's license — an expired license will not work. You need one passport-sized photograph, which is 2 inches by 2 inches. You will complete an process form specific to the organization (AAA or AATA). Finally, you need payment: $20 for AAA or $15 for AATA.

Do not bring or send your passport. The IDP is not a passport replacement and does not require one. It is a translation of your driver's license only. Some countries may ask to see your passport when you enter, but that is separate from the IDP process.

How Long the Permit Is Valid and When to Renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. It does not renew automatically. If you travel internationally again after that year ends, you must obtain a new IDP. This means if you receive your permit in March 2024, it expires in March 2025, even if you do not use it.

Plan ahead if you take multiple international trips in a year. If your first trip is in January and your second is in December, you will need two separate permits. Some travelers obtain a new IDP each time they travel rather than trying to track expiration dates.

What Happens at the Border and While Driving Abroad

When you enter a country, border officials may ask to see your IDP along with your passport. Keep both documents together and easily accessible. While driving, carry your New York driver's license and your IDP at all times — driving with only the IDP and no license is not legal in most countries.

Some countries recognize the IDP but do not require it; others require it by law. A few countries do not recognize it at all. Before you travel, check the specific country's requirements through its embassy website or your car rental company. The IDP is not a substitute for knowing local traffic laws, and it does not protect you from traffic violations or accidents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my New York license is suspended or expired?

No. Your New York driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP until your license is restored or renewed. Contact the New York Department of Motor Vehicles if you need to renew or restore your license first.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

No. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies may request an IDP anyway, so check with your rental company before you travel. Your New York license alone is sufficient for legal driving in both countries.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact the organization that issued it (AAA or AATA) as soon as you can. They cannot issue a replacement while you are abroad, but you can obtain a new one when you return to New York. Your New York driver's license remains valid for driving, though some countries or rental companies may still ask for the IDP.

Can I use an International Driving Permit from another state, or do I need one from New York?

An IDP is issued based on your driver's license, not your state of residence. If you hold a New York driver's license, you obtain an IDP through AAA or AATA in New York. If you hold a license from another state, you would obtain an IDP in that state. The IDP itself is the same regardless of which state issued your license.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

AAA charges $20 and AATA charges $15. Some AAA branches may charge additional fees if you are not a member, so confirm the total cost before you explore. Neither organization charges for renewal — you pay the full fee each time you obtain a new permit.