An international driving permit is not a US license — it's a translation document that some countries recognize

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a booklet that translates your valid US driver's license into ten languages. It does not replace your US license, does not let you drive in the US, and does not give you driving rights you don't already have. You can only get one if you already hold a current US driver's license from your state. The permit exists so that when you travel abroad, a police officer or car rental company in another country can read your license information without needing a translator.

Whether you actually need one depends on where you're going. Some countries require it, some accept it but don't require it, and some don't recognize it at all. A few countries will not rent you a car without one, even if you have a valid US license. Before you travel, check the specific rules for the country you're visiting — not just the continent or region, but the individual country.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid US driver's license before you can get an International Driving Permit; the permit is an add-on document, not a standalone license.
  • The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized by the US State Department to issue IDPs.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years depending on which organization issues it, but it expires when your US license expires.
  • Some countries require an IDP to rent a car or drive legally; others accept it but don't require it; you must check the rules for your specific destination before traveling.
  • You can get an IDP in person at most AAA offices or by mail through either AAA or AATA, and the process takes a few days to a few weeks depending on your method.

Who can issue an International Driving Permit

Only two organizations in the United States are authorized by the US State Department to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No other organization, website, or service can legally issue one. If you see a website offering to get you an IDP for a higher price or without requiring a US license, it is not legitimate.

AAA is the larger and more widely available option. Most AAA offices can issue an IDP on the spot if you walk in with your US license, passport, and a passport-sized photo. AATA operates primarily through mail order. Both organizations charge a fee, and both require you to show proof that you hold a current, valid US driver's license.

What documents and information you'll need

To get an IDP, bring or send the following:

  • Your current, valid US driver's license
  • Your passport or other government-issued photo ID
  • One passport-sized photograph (2 by 2 inches), taken within the last six months
  • The process form, which AAA or AATA will provide
  • Payment for the fee (cash, check, or card, depending on the organization and method)

If you're explore by mail through AATA, you'll also need to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for them to return your IDP. Some AAA offices may have slightly different requirements, so call ahead to confirm what they need before you visit.

How to get an IDP in person at AAA

Find your nearest AAA office using the AAA website or by calling their member services line. Not every AAA office issues IDPs on the same day, so call first to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment. Bring your US driver's license, passport, one passport-sized photo, and payment (typically $15 to $20, though prices vary by location).

The process takes about 15 to 30 minutes. You'll fill out a short form, show your documents, and receive your IDP booklet before you leave. Your IDP will be valid for one year from the date of issue, but it will expire earlier if your US driver's license expires first. Keep both documents together when you travel.

How to get an IDP by mail through AATA

Visit the AATA website to read the IDP process form. Fill it out completely, including your name, address, US license number, and the dates your license is valid. Attach one passport-sized photo to the form (tape or glue it in the space provided). Make a photocopy of the front and back of your US driver's license and include both copies with your process.

Mail the completed process, photo, license copies, payment (check or money order; AATA does not accept credit cards by mail), and a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the AATA address listed on their website. Processing typically takes two to three weeks. AATA will mail your IDP back to you in the envelope you provided. An IDP issued by AATA is valid for three years, but again, it expires when your US license expires.

How long an IDP is valid and what happens when it expires

An IDP issued by AAA is valid for one year from the date of issue. An IDP issued by AATA is valid for three years from the date of issue. However, both expire when ready if your US driver's license expires before the IDP's expiration date. For example, if you get an IDP in 2024 but your US license expires in 2025, your IDP is no longer valid after 2025, even if the IDP itself wouldn't expire until 2027.

You cannot renew an IDP. When it expires, you must get a new one by going through the same process again. If you're planning a trip and your US license will expire soon, renew your license first, then get your IDP. This way, your IDP will remain valid for its full term.

Whether you actually need an IDP for your destination

Requirements vary widely by country. Some countries, including many in Europe and South America, either require an IDP or strongly recommend it. Others, including Canada and the United Kingdom, accept a valid US driver's license alone. A few countries do not recognize US licenses or IDPs at all and require you to get an International Driving License through their own process (which is different from an IDP).

The safest approach is to contact the embassy or consulate of the country you're visiting, or check the US State Department's travel advisory for that country. If you're renting a car, call the rental company directly and ask whether they require an IDP. Some rental companies will not rent to you without one, regardless of what the country's law says. Getting an IDP before you travel is inexpensive and takes only a few days to a few weeks, so if there's any doubt, it's worth having one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in the US with an International Driving Permit instead of a US license?

No. An IDP is only valid outside the United States. To drive in the US, you must have a valid US driver's license from your state. If you're a visitor to the US, you may be able to drive with a valid license from your home country, but rules vary by state — check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact the US embassy or consulate in the country where you are. They can provide a replacement letter or document that confirms you hold a valid US license, which may help you with car rentals or police. You cannot get a replacement IDP while abroad; you'll need to get a new one when you return to the US.

Do I need an IDP if I'm only visiting Canada or Mexico?

Canada does not require an IDP; a valid US driver's license is sufficient. Mexico's rules are more complex and vary by state and situation. Check with the Mexican consulate or your car rental company before traveling. Having an IDP doesn't hurt and may make things simpler, but it's not always required.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

AAA typically charges $15 to $20 for an IDP valid for one year. AATA typically charges around $20 for an IDP valid for three years. Prices may vary slightly by location or by changes in fees over time. Call ahead to confirm the exact price before you explore.

Can I get an IDP if my US driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your US driver's license must be current and valid. If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored and current. Renew your US license first through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, then explore for an IDP.