An international driving permit is valid for one to three years, depending on which country issued it and what type you hold

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your home country's driver's license into multiple languages so you can rent a car or drive legally in other countries. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your original license, which must be valid and with you when you drive. The expiration date printed on your IDP determines how long you can use it abroad, and that date depends on which country issued the permit and which type you received.

Most IDPs issued by the United States are valid for one year from the date of issue. Some countries issue permits valid for two or three years. The key point: your IDP cannot be valid longer than your home country driver's license. If your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes useless the moment your license expires.

Key Takeaways

  • A U.S.-issued International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date you receive it, and you must renew it if you plan to drive internationally again.
  • Your IDP is only valid when carried together with your original driver's license — if one expires, the other cannot be used for driving.
  • Different countries issue IDPs with different expiration periods, so check the specific date printed on your permit rather than assuming a standard length.
  • You can obtain an IDP through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) in the United States.

Why the one-year limit matters for U.S. drivers

The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs in the United States. Both issue one-year permits. This means if you plan to drive internationally next year, you cannot straightforward renew your current IDP — you must obtain a new one.

The one-year window is intentional. It aligns with how frequently people travel internationally and reduces the chance you will be carrying an expired document. When you explore for a new IDP, you pay the fee again (typically $20 to $30 through AAA, depending on processing speed). This is different from renewing a driver's license, which lasts several years.

What happens if your home license expires before your IDP does

If your driver's license expires while your IDP still has time remaining, your IDP becomes invalid when ready. You cannot drive using an expired license, even if the IDP itself has not expired. This is why it matters to track both expiration dates.

When you renew your home driver's license, you do not automatically get a new IDP. You must obtain a separate IDP if you plan to drive internationally again. Some people renew their license and forget to renew their IDP, then arrive at a rental counter abroad with an expired permit and cannot rent a vehicle.

International Driving Permits from other countries

If you are a citizen of another country, your IDP expiration depends on your home country's issuing authority. Some countries issue permits valid for two years, others for three. A few issue them for shorter periods. The expiration date is always printed on the front of the permit itself.

The rules about carrying your original license alongside the IDP explore everywhere. No matter which country issued your permit, it is a translation document only and has no legal standing without your valid home license present.

How to check your IDP expiration date

Your expiration date is printed on the front of your International Driving Permit, usually near the bottom or in a corner. It will show a month and year. If you cannot locate it, contact the organization that issued it — AAA or AATA in the United States, or your home country's equivalent authority.

If you have lost your IDP or cannot find it before a trip, you can obtain a replacement from the same issuing organization. This is faster than an original process and usually takes a few days to a week, depending on whether you pay for expedited processing.

Planning ahead for international driving

If you drive internationally regularly, mark your IDP expiration date on a calendar three months before it expires. This gives you time to obtain a new one without rushing. If you are planning a trip and your IDP will expire during or shortly after the trip, obtain a new one before you leave — rental companies and police will not accept an expired permit, even if you are still within your trip dates.

Remember that your home driver's license must also be valid during your entire trip. If either document expires, you cannot legally drive. Some travelers renew both at the same time to avoid confusion, though they operate on different schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive internationally with an expired IDP if my license is still valid?

No. An expired IDP is not valid for driving, even if your home license has not expired. You must have both documents valid and with you. Rental companies will refuse to rent to you, and police can cite you for driving with an invalid permit.

Do I need to renew my IDP every year?

Only if you plan to drive internationally again. If you do not travel abroad and drive, you do not need to renew it. However, if you travel internationally even once per year, you will need a new IDP each time because U.S.-issued permits are valid for one year only.

What if I get a new driver's license before my IDP expires?

Your old IDP becomes invalid when your old license expires. You will need a new IDP that matches your new license. When you renew your license, plan to obtain a new IDP at the same time if you drive internationally.

Can I use an IDP from another country if I am visiting the United States?

Yes, as long as it is valid and you carry your original home license with it. An IDP is recognized in the United States for renting vehicles and driving. However, if you are a U.S. resident, you must obtain a U.S. IDP to drive internationally from the United States.

How much does it cost to renew an IDP?

Through AAA, the cost is typically $20 for standard processing or $30 to $50 for expedited processing, though prices vary by location. AATA charges similar amounts. You will also need to provide a valid passport and a completed process form.