You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and two passport-sized photos

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. license, and many countries will not accept it without one. You cannot get an IDP without already holding a current driver's license from your state.

The three things you must bring are: your valid U.S. driver's license, proof of citizenship (a passport or passport card), and two passport-sized photos (2 by 2 inches). Some offices also accept a birth certificate with a government-issued photo ID, but a passport is the safest choice because it covers both citizenship and photo ID in one document.

You do not need to renew your driver's license first, and you do not need to pass any test. The IDP straightforward confirms that you hold a valid license and translates your information for foreign police and rental companies.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP — the permit is not a replacement.
  • Bring your driver's license, a passport or passport card, and two 2-by-2-inch passport photos to your local AAA office or county clerk.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request.
  • Only the American Automobile Association (AAA) and some county clerk offices issue IDPs in the United States — no other organization is authorized.
  • Your IDP is only valid if you carry it together with your original U.S. driver's license.

Where to get an International Driving Permit

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the primary issuer of IDPs in the United States. You can walk into any AAA office with your documents and receive an IDP the same day. If you are not a AAA member, you can still get an IDP — membership is not required. You do not need to call ahead; most offices process them while you wait.

Some county clerk offices also issue IDPs, though availability varies by state. Call your county clerk's office to ask whether they offer this service. If they do, they will tell you their hours and whether you need an appointment. If they do not, they will direct you to the nearest AAA office.

Do not attempt to get an IDP online or by mail from a third-party website. Only AAA and authorized county clerks can issue them. Websites that claim to issue IDPs by mail are either scams or will straightforward mail you an AAA form to complete in person.

Documents you must bring in person

Bring your original, valid U.S. driver's license. It must not be expired. If your license expired within the last year, some offices may still accept it, but do not rely on this — renew it first if there is any doubt.

Bring proof of citizenship: a passport, passport card, or birth certificate paired with a government-issued photo ID. A passport or passport card is the easiest option because it serves as both proof of citizenship and a photo ID. If you use a birth certificate, you must also bring a second photo ID such as a state ID card or military ID.

Bring two passport-sized photos, each 2 inches by 2 inches. These are the same size as passport photos. You can get them taken at any pharmacy (CVS, Walgreens), UPS Store, or professional photography studio. They cost $10 to $15 for a set of four. The photos must show your face clearly against a plain background — no sunglasses, hats, or filters.

Bring a completed IDP process form. AAA and county clerk offices have these forms at the desk, or you can read and fill one out before you arrive. The form asks for your name, address, license number, and signature. It takes about two minutes to complete.

Cost and how long it takes

An IDP costs $15 to $20, depending on whether you choose the one-year or three-year version. AAA and county clerks accept cash and card. There is no additional fee for processing or shipping because you receive it in person.

Processing takes minutes to an hour. Most AAA offices and county clerks hand you the IDP while you wait. If the office is very busy, they may ask you to return later the same day. No office should tell you to come back in more than a few days.

The one-year IDP costs less but expires sooner. The three-year IDP costs slightly more but lasts longer. Choose based on how long you plan to drive internationally. If you are taking a single trip, the one-year permit is usually enough. If you travel regularly, the three-year version saves money over time.

What happens if your driver's license expires

Your IDP is only valid if your U.S. driver's license is also valid. If your license expires, your IDP becomes invalid at the same time, even if the IDP itself has not yet expired. Before any international trip, check both expiration dates.

If your license is about to expire, renew it before you get the IDP. This way, your IDP will remain valid for its full term. If you already have an IDP and your license expires, you will need to renew your license and get a new IDP.

What to do if you cannot visit in person

AAA and county clerk offices require you to appear in person with your original documents. They do not issue IDPs by mail or online. If you cannot visit an office before your trip, you have two options: visit an office as soon as you can, or travel without an IDP.

Many countries do not require an IDP if you carry your U.S. driver's license and passport. Check the specific requirements for the country you are visiting by contacting its embassy or visiting its official tourism website. Some countries treat the IDP as optional; others require it. Rental car companies often require an IDP even if the country does not, so ask your rental company before you book.

If you are leaving within a few days, locate the nearest AAA office or county clerk and visit during their next open hours. Most offices have extended hours or weekend availability. If no office is open before you leave, you can get an IDP when you return, or you can rent a car from a company that does not require one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP if I am just visiting Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP. Your U.S. driver's license and passport are sufficient. However, some car rental companies in these countries may request an IDP, so check with your rental company before you book. If they do not require it, you do not need one.

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

No. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until your license is reinstated. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to learn how to restore your license.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They can issue a replacement IDP or provide a letter confirming your U.S. license. Carry your original U.S. driver's license and passport at all times — these are what police and rental companies actually need. The IDP is a translation aid, not the primary document.

Is an IDP the same as an international driver's license?

Yes, they are the same thing. "International Driving Permit" and "International Driver's License" refer to the same document. It is issued only by AAA and some county clerks in the United States. No other organization can issue a legitimate one.

How long is an IDP valid?

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which version you purchase. It expires on the date printed on the document. It also becomes invalid if your U.S. driver's license expires, even if the IDP itself has not yet reached its expiration date.