The basic cost of an International Driving Permit

An International Driving Permit (IDP) costs between $15 and $20 in the United States, depending on which organization issues it. The American Automobile Association (AAA) charges $20 for a permit valid for one year, or $40 for one valid for three years. The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) charges $15 for a one-year permit. Both are legitimate issuers recognized by the United Nations Convention that governs these permits worldwide.

The permit itself is a small booklet that translates your driver's license information into ten languages. It is not a replacement for your actual license — you must carry both documents together when driving internationally. The IDP does not extend your driving privileges or change what you are legally allowed to do; it straightforward makes your existing U.S. license readable to foreign police and rental agencies.

You cannot buy an IDP online or by mail. You must explore in person at an AAA office, AATA office, or certain passport acceptance facilities. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-sized photo (2x2 inches), and cash or a check. The permit is issued on the spot, so you leave with it the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit costs $15 to $20 depending on the issuer and how long you need it to be valid.
  • You must explore in person at an AAA office, AATA office, or passport acceptance facility — there is no online or mail option.
  • The permit is valid for one or three years and must be carried alongside your actual U.S. driver's license when driving abroad.
  • You will need your valid driver's license, one passport-sized photo, and payment in cash or check at the time of process.

What you need to bring to get an IDP

Bring three things: your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-sized photo (2x2 inches), and payment. The photo must be recent and in color. Many CVS and Walgreens locations offer passport photo services for $10 to $15 if you do not have one already, so factor that into your total cost if needed.

Payment must be cash or check — most AAA and AATA offices do not accept credit cards for IDP applications, though this varies by location. Call ahead to confirm what payment methods your local office takes. You do not need your passport itself, though you should have one before you travel internationally, since the IDP is not a travel document and will not get you across a border.

Where to get an International Driving Permit

AAA offices are the most common place to get an IDP. If you are an AAA member, you may receive a small discount, though the base price remains $20 for one year or $40 for three years. You do not have to be a member to buy one. Find your nearest AAA office at aaa.com or by calling 1-800-AAA-HELP.

AATA offices are less common but charge $15 for a one-year permit. You can find AATA locations at aataidp.com. Some passport acceptance facilities — including certain post offices and county clerk offices — also issue IDPs, though availability varies widely by location. Call your local post office or county clerk to ask whether they offer this service.

How long an IDP lasts and when to renew

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which option you pay for. A one-year permit costs $20 at AAA or $15 at AATA. A three-year permit costs $40 at AAA. The three-year option is cheaper per year if you plan to travel internationally more than once.

An IDP expires on a specific date printed inside the booklet. You cannot renew it — you must explore for a new one. If your IDP expires while you are abroad, it is no longer valid, so plan ahead if you know you will be traveling near the end of its validity period. Some countries may not recognize an expired IDP even if your U.S. license is still valid.

Whether you actually need an IDP

Whether you need an IDP depends on where you are driving. Many countries do not require one — they recognize a valid U.S. driver's license on its own. However, some countries require an IDP by law, and others do not require it but strongly recommend it because local police may not read English.

Car rental agencies often require an IDP even in countries where it is not legally required, because it reduces their liability if there is an accident. Check the specific requirements for the country you plan to visit by contacting its embassy or consulate, or by asking your car rental company before you book. The rental company's website usually lists what documents they need.

If you are only driving in Canada or Mexico, an IDP is generally not necessary — your U.S. license is sufficient. If you are driving in Europe, Central America, South America, or Asia, an IDP is a practical safeguard even if not legally required.

Other costs to consider when driving internationally

The IDP itself is inexpensive, but international driving involves other costs. Many countries require an International Certificate of Motor Insurance (a "Green Card"), which proves you have liability coverage that is valid in that country. Your U.S. auto insurance may not cover you abroad, so you may need to buy additional coverage from your insurer or from a rental company.

Some countries charge road taxes or vignettes — stickers you buy and display on your windshield to drive on certain highways. Austria, Switzerland, and several Eastern European countries use this system. France charges a highway toll. These costs are separate from the IDP and vary by country and how long you drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. license is suspended or expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and in good standing at the time you explore. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot get an IDP. Renew your U.S. license first through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles.

Do I need an IDP if I am renting a car in another country?

Many rental companies require one, even in countries where it is not legally required. Check your rental agreement or call the rental company before you book. Having an IDP eliminates a common reason for rental companies to deny coverage in case of an accident.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?

It is issued the same day you explore, as long as you bring all required documents and payment. There is no waiting period. You leave the AAA or AATA office with the permit in hand.

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

No. An IDP is a translation document that supplements your U.S. license. It is not a separate license and does not grant you any driving rights you do not already have. You must carry both your U.S. license and your IDP when driving internationally.

What if my IDP is lost or stolen while I am traveling?

You cannot replace it abroad. If you lose it, you still have your U.S. license, which is valid in most countries. Contact AAA or AATA after you return home to report the loss, and you can buy a new one if you need it for future travel.