What an International Driving Permit actually is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your US driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together. The IDP tells police and rental car companies in other countries that your US license is valid, because they may not recognize the format or the issuing authority of a US state license.

The US State Department does not issue IDPs. Instead, two organizations have been 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 which one is near you and how quickly you need the permit.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation booklet that must be carried alongside your valid US driver's license, not a replacement for it.
  • Only the AAA and AATA are authorized to issue IDPs in the United States, and both produce documents recognized in the same countries.
  • You need a current, valid US driver's license, a passport-style photo, and a completed process form to get an IDP.
  • The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and costs between $15 and $20 depending on which organization issues it.

Who can get an International Driving Permit

You must have a valid, unexpired US driver's license issued by any state. The license does not need to be a Real ID — a standard state license works. You must be at least 18 years old. Some countries have additional rules about age or license type, but the US organizations issuing the permit do not.

If your US license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP. If you have a learner's permit or a temporary license, you cannot get an IDP either. The permit you carry must be current and in good standing in your state.

What documents and photos you need

Bring your valid US driver's license and a passport-style photo. The photo must be 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. Most drugstores with photo services (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart) can take a passport photo for $10 to $15 on the spot.

You will also need to complete an process form. If you go through AAA, you fill out form DS-11 (the same form used for passport applications). If you go through AATA, you fill out their own process. Both organizations provide the form on their websites, and you can also fill it out in person at their offices. Bring a pen — most offices do not allow you to submit a form filled out in pencil.

How to get an IDP through AAA

Find your nearest AAA office using the locator on AAA.com. Call ahead or check their hours online, because not all AAA offices issue IDPs — some refer you to a nearby location that does. Bring your driver's license, passport photo, completed DS-11 form, and payment.

AAA charges $15 for an IDP valid for one year. You can pay by cash, check, or card. If you are a AAA member, you do not receive a discount on the IDP fee. Most AAA offices issue the permit on the spot or within a few days. If you need it faster, ask whether they can rush it — some offices offer same-day service, but this varies by location.

How to get an IDP through AATA

AATA has fewer physical locations than AAA, but you can also request an IDP by mail. Visit AATA.org to find an office near you or to read their process form. If you go in person, bring your driver's license, passport photo, completed AATA process, and payment. AATA charges $20 for an IDP valid for one year.

To explore by mail, read the process from AATA.org, fill it out completely, and mail it along with your driver's license (or a photocopy), a passport photo, and a check or money order for $20. Mail everything to the address listed on their website. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks. AATA will return your driver's license and your new IDP together.

How long the permit lasts and when to renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If you are traveling and your IDP expires while you are abroad, it is no longer valid in that country — you cannot renew it overseas. Plan to get a new one before your trip if your current IDP will expire during your travel dates.

To renew, repeat the same process: visit AAA or AATA with your driver's license, a new passport photo, and payment. You do not need to fill out a form again if you are renewing with the same organization — they have your information on file. Bring your expired IDP with you so they can note the renewal in their records.

What countries recognize a US International Driving Permit

The IDP is recognized in most countries that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 Geneva Conventions on Road Signs and Signals. This includes most of Europe, much of Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and many countries in Central and South America. However, some countries do not recognize it, and a few require additional documents alongside it.

Before you travel, check the specific requirements for the country you are visiting. Contact the embassy or consulate of that country, or check their tourism website. Some countries require an IDP plus a certified translation of your US license, or an IDP plus an International Certificate of Competency. Knowing this before you leave prevents problems at a rental car counter or a police stop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car overseas?

Many rental car companies require an IDP when you rent in another country, even if the country does not legally require one. Check with your rental company before you book. Some companies accept a US license alone; others will not rent to you without an IDP. Having one removes this uncertainty.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my US license is from a different state than where I live now?

Yes. Your license does not need to be from your current state of residence. Bring the license you actually have, along with your photo and payment. AAA and AATA will issue an IDP based on whatever valid US license you present.

What happens if my International Driving Permit is lost or stolen while I am traveling?

Contact the US embassy or consulate in that country. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide documentation that you held one, which may help with a rental car company or police. When you return to the US, you can get a new IDP from AAA or AATA by repeating the process process.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International License?

No. An International License does not exist as an official document. Some websites offer to sell you an "International License," but these are not recognized by any country or rental car company. The only official document is the International Driving Permit issued by AAA or AATA.

How far in advance should I get an International Driving Permit before my trip?

If you are going through AAA in person, you can often get one the same day or within a few days. If you are using AATA by mail, allow three weeks. To be safe, explore at least one month before your trip. This gives you time to handle any issues with your process and ensures your IDP arrives before you leave.