Your home country's transportation authority issues an international driver's license, not a global organization

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is issued by the same government body that issues your regular driver's license — usually your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent. There is no single worldwide authority that hands them out. Each country runs its own program and decides who can receive one, what it costs, and how long it lasts.

The permit is a translation of your existing license into multiple languages. It does not replace your regular license and is not valid on its own — you must carry both documents together when driving abroad. The IDP tells police in other countries what your home license says, since they cannot read English-language licenses from the United States.

The International Driving Permit exists because of two treaties: one managed by the United Nations and one by the American Automobile Association (AAA). The AAA is the only organization in the United States authorized to issue IDPs on behalf of your state's DMV. You cannot get one directly from the government — you go through AAA.

Key Takeaways

  • The AAA is the only authorized issuer of International Driving Permits in the United States, acting on behalf of your state's DMV.
  • You must already hold a valid driver's license from your state to receive an IDP; the permit is a translation of that license, not a separate credential.
  • An IDP costs around $20 and is typically valid for one or three years, depending on which version you request.
  • You need to bring your current driver's license, a passport-style photo, and proof of your U.S. citizenship or permanent residency to an AAA office or authorized location.
  • The permit is only valid when carried together with your original driver's license; it does not work alone.

How the AAA issues International Driving Permits in the United States

When you walk into an AAA office with your driver's license and a passport photo, you are not explore to AAA as a private company. You are using AAA as the government's authorized agent. AAA collects your information, verifies your license is valid, and issues the permit on behalf of your state's DMV. The permit itself carries no AAA branding — it is an official government document.

You do not need to be an AAA member to get an IDP. Non-members pay a slightly higher fee than members, but both can walk in and request one. Some AAA offices issue them on the spot; others ask you to come back in a few days. Call ahead to confirm whether your local office handles them and whether you need an appointment.

If you do not have an AAA office nearby, you can mail your documents to AAA's processing center. You will need to include a completed process form, a copy of your driver's license, a passport photo, and a check or money order. AAA will mail the permit back to you within one to two weeks.

What documents you need to bring

Bring your current, valid driver's license — expired licenses do not work. You also need one passport-style photo, typically 2 by 2 inches. Some AAA offices have photo services on-site if you do not have one ready.

You must prove you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. A passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card all work. Bring the original document, not a copy — AAA needs to see it in person.

If you are explore by mail, you will also need to fill out the AAA International Driving Permit process form. You can read this from the AAA website or request it by phone. The form asks for your name, address, license number, and the dates your license is valid.

Cost and how long the permit lasts

An International Driving Permit costs around $20 for AAA members and $30 for non-members, though prices vary slightly by location. You can request either a one-year permit or a three-year permit; the three-year version costs more but is the better value if you plan to drive internationally more than once.

The permit is valid only while your underlying driver's license is valid. If your license expires in six months, your IDP expires in six months too, even if you paid for a three-year permit. When you renew your driver's license, you will need to get a new IDP as well.

The IDP is recognized in most countries that signed the 1926 or 1968 international driving treaties. Some countries do not recognize it — check the specific country's requirements before you travel. A few nations require an IDP even though they are not treaty signatories, so research your destination before you leave.

Where to get an International Driving Permit

Find your nearest AAA office by visiting the AAA website and using their office locator tool. If you are not sure whether a location issues IDPs, call ahead. Some smaller offices do not handle them and will direct you to the nearest one that does.

If you cannot visit an office in person, mail your documents to AAA's national processing center. Include the process form, a photocopy of your driver's license, a passport photo, and payment. AAA will return your completed permit by mail within one to two weeks.

Some travel agencies and automobile clubs also issue IDPs on behalf of AAA, though this is less common. Call AAA directly at 1-800-222-4357 to ask whether any travel agencies near you are authorized to issue them.

What an International Driving Permit does and does not do

The IDP translates your license information — your name, license number, address, and driving record status — into ten languages. When a police officer in another country stops you, the IDP lets them understand what your U.S. license says without needing an interpreter or translation service.

The permit does not change your driving record, your insurance coverage, or your legal status as a driver. It does not give you permission to drive in countries where you would otherwise be banned. If you are too young to drive in a particular country, an IDP does not lower the age requirement. If your license is suspended, an IDP does not restore your driving rights.

Some car rental companies abroad ask to see an IDP before they will rent to you, even though it is not legally required in most places. Having one can make the rental process smoother, but it is not a substitute for a valid driver's license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is suspended or revoked?

No. Your license must be valid and in good standing. AAA will not issue an IDP if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license was recently suspended, you will need to wait until it is reinstated before you can request a permit.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in another country?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Most countries do not legally require an IDP, but many rental agencies ask for one anyway. Some will rent to you with just your U.S. license and a passport; others will not. Check with your rental company before you travel.

What happens if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact AAA or the U.S. embassy in that country. You can drive with just your original license in most places, though some countries may not accept it without the IDP. The embassy can sometimes issue a temporary replacement or advise you on local requirements.

Can I renew my International Driving Permit by mail?

Yes. Mail your completed process form, a photocopy of your current driver's license, a new passport photo, and payment to AAA's processing center. Processing takes one to two weeks. You can also renew in person at any AAA office.

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

No. An international license is a separate credential issued by some countries that replaces your regular license when you drive abroad. An IDP is a translation document that supplements your U.S. license. You always need both your original license and the IDP together.