You get an International Driving Permit from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not from a private company

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your regular driver's license into multiple languages so you can rent a car or drive in other countries. You cannot buy one online from a private website or through the mail from a third party. You must obtain it in person or by mail directly from your state's DMV — the same office that issued your driver's license.

The process is straightforward: you visit your DMV office with your valid driver's license and a passport-style photo, fill out a form, pay a fee (usually $20 to $30), and receive the permit on the spot or within a few days. Some states allow you to mail in your process instead of visiting in person. The permit is valid for three years and is recognized in over 150 countries that have signed the international driving agreement.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's DMV is the only place to get a legitimate International Driving Permit — private websites that claim to issue them are not official sources.
  • You need a valid driver's license, a passport-style photo, and a completed process form; the fee is typically $20 to $30.
  • Most DMV offices issue the permit while you wait, though some states process applications by mail and take a few days to a week.
  • The permit is valid for three years and must be carried alongside your regular driver's license when driving abroad.

How to find your state's DMV office

Start by searching "[your state] DMV International Driving Permit" or visiting your state's official DMV website directly. Each state runs its own DMV, so the process and fees vary slightly. Some states call it an International Driving Permit; others call it an International Driver's License or International Driving Document. The name changes, but the document is the same.

Once you find your state's DMV website, look for a section on international documents or travel. The website will tell you whether you can explore in person only, by mail only, or both. It will also list the exact documents you need to bring and the current fee. If you cannot find the information online, call your local DMV office — the phone number is on the website — and ask specifically about International Driving Permits.

What documents to bring or mail in

You will need your valid driver's license, one or two passport-style photos (4x6 inches, usually), and a completed process form. Some states require additional documents like proof of residency or a copy of your passport. The DMV website for your state lists exactly what is required before you go.

If you are explore by mail, do not send your original driver's license — send a photocopy. Include the process form, photos, and a check or money order for the fee. Mail everything to the address listed on your state's DMV website. Keep a copy of everything you send in case the process is lost in the mail.

Fees and how long it takes

The fee for an International Driving Permit ranges from about $15 to $30 depending on your state. A few states charge more. If you explore in person at a DMV office, you usually receive the permit when ready or within a few days. If you explore by mail, expect one to two weeks for processing, plus mail time in both directions.

Plan ahead if you are traveling soon. If your trip is more than two weeks away, explore by mail is usually safe. If you are leaving within two weeks, visit a DMV office in person to get it the same day or within a few days.

What to do if you cannot visit a DMV office

If you live far from a DMV office or have mobility challenges, check whether your state allows mail-in applications. Many states do. You can also ask whether a family member or friend can submit the process on your behalf — some states allow this, others do not. Call your state's DMV to ask what options are available to you.

If your state does not offer mail-in service and you cannot visit in person, you may need to plan a trip to the nearest DMV office. Some states have satellite offices in smaller towns, so check whether there is one closer to you than the main office.

Beware of private websites claiming to issue International Driving Permits

Several private companies advertise International Driving Permits online and charge $50 to $200 to issue them. These are not legitimate. The only valid International Driving Permit comes from your state's DMV. A permit from a private company will not be recognized by car rental companies or police in other countries.

If a website promises to issue an International Driving Permit without requiring you to contact your state's DMV, it is a scam or selling a worthless document. Stick with your state's official DMV office — it is free to find, costs $15 to $30, and takes less than an hour.

What happens after you receive your permit

Keep your International Driving Permit with your regular driver's license at all times when driving abroad. The permit is not a replacement for your license — it is a companion document that translates your license into multiple languages. Some countries require both documents; others accept the permit alone if your license is expired but the permit is still valid.

The permit is valid for three years. When it expires, you can renew it by returning to your state's DMV with a new process, photo, and fee. You do not need to renew your regular driver's license to renew your International Driving Permit — they are separate documents on separate schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is expired?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and not expired when you explore for an International Driving Permit. If your license is expired, renew it first at your state's DMV, then explore for the permit. Some states allow you to renew both at the same visit.

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 International Driving Permit. However, some car rental companies may ask for one, so check with your rental company before your trip. An International Driving Permit is most useful in Europe, Asia, and other regions outside North America.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact your state's DMV from abroad and ask about a replacement. Some states can mail a replacement to you internationally, though it may take several weeks. In the meantime, your regular driver's license is still valid for driving in most countries. Keep a photocopy of your permit separate from the original in case it is lost or stolen.

Can I get an International Driving Permit online without visiting the DMV?

Some states allow you to complete the process online and then mail in the required documents and photos. A few states offer fully online processing. Check your state's DMV website to see whether online or mail-in options are available. You cannot complete the entire process online — you must submit physical documents and a photo.