You don't need a passport to get an International Driving Permit, but you do need a valid U.S. driver's license

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a separate document from a passport. It translates your regular driver's license into multiple languages so rental car companies and police in other countries can read it. You obtain it through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), not through a passport office.

To get an IDP, you need a current, valid U.S. driver's license — that's the main requirement. You do not need a passport, though you will need a passport to actually enter most countries. The IDP is purely for driving once you arrive.

Many people confuse the two documents because both are travel-related and both require identification. The IDP is not a travel document itself. It's a driving credential that works alongside your license.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit requires only a valid U.S. driver's license, not a passport.
  • You obtain an IDP through AAA or AATA, not through the State Department or a passport agency.
  • An IDP is not a travel document and does not replace a passport for entering another country.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 and takes about 15 minutes to obtain in person at an AAA office.
  • Some countries do not recognize IDPs, so you should check your destination's requirements before traveling.

What documents you actually need to bring to get an IDP

When you visit an AAA or AATA office to get an IDP, bring your valid U.S. driver's license and one form of identification with your photo on it. A passport works as that second ID, but so does a state ID card, military ID, or employee badge with your photograph. You do not have to bring a passport.

You'll also need to fill out an process form on the spot — AAA and AATA both provide these at their offices. The form asks for your name, address, driver's license number, and signature. The whole process takes about 15 minutes.

Bring cash or a card to pay the fee. AAA charges around $15 to $20 for an IDP, depending on your membership status. AATA charges a similar amount. Both organizations issue the permit when ready, so you walk out with it the same day.

Where to get an International Driving Permit without a passport

The easiest route is an AAA office near you. AAA has over 1,000 locations across the United States, and most can issue an IDP on the spot. You don't need to be an AAA member, though members sometimes receive a small discount. Search for your nearest AAA office on their website and call ahead to confirm they issue IDPs — most do, but a few smaller locations may not.

If you don't have an AAA office nearby, the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the other official issuer. AATA has fewer physical locations, but you can order an IDP by mail. Send them your completed process form, a photocopy of your driver's license, a photocopy of your photo ID, and a check or money order. AATA will mail the permit to you within two to three weeks.

Do not use third-party websites that claim to issue IDPs online. The only legitimate IDPs in the United States come from AAA or AATA. Scam sites may take your money and send you a worthless document.

Why some countries don't accept an International Driving Permit

An IDP is recognized by the United Nations and accepted in most countries that are signatories to the 1926 International Convention on Motor Traffic. However, not every country honors it. Some nations require you to obtain a local driving permit or an official translation of your U.S. license from their own motor vehicle authority.

Before you travel, check the specific requirements for your destination country. Contact the embassy or consulate of the country you're visiting, or search their official tourism or transportation website. Some countries accept an IDP but only if it's paired with your original U.S. driver's license — you must carry both documents together.

A few countries, including some in the Middle East and parts of Asia, do not recognize IDPs at all. In those places, you may need to obtain an International Driving Permit from your home country before leaving the U.S., or you may need to rent a car with a driver rather than driving yourself.

How long an International Driving Permit lasts

An IDP issued by AAA or AATA is valid for one year from the date of issue. After one year, it expires and is no longer recognized by rental companies or police. If you plan to travel internationally again after that year, you'll need to get a new IDP.

Your IDP expires even if your U.S. driver's license is still valid. The two documents have separate expiration dates. Check the expiration date printed on your IDP before you travel to make sure it hasn't lapsed.

What happens if you drive without an International Driving Permit

In countries that recognize IDPs, driving without one when you're required to carry one can result in a fine or the rental car company refusing to let you take the vehicle. Police may also stop you and issue a citation. The consequences vary by country — some treat it as a minor traffic violation, while others take it more seriously.

More commonly, rental car companies straightforward won't rent to you without an IDP if one is required in that country. They check for it at the counter, and if you don't have it, they may refuse the rental or charge you an extra fee. This is why it's worth getting one before you leave, even if you're not certain you'll need it.

If you're stopped by police and don't have an IDP, having your U.S. driver's license and passport with you can sometimes help, but it doesn't may provide you'll avoid a fine. The safest approach is to carry the IDP if there's any chance you'll need it.

International Driving Permit vs. a Real ID-compliant driver's license

A Real ID-compliant driver's license is a U.S. domestic travel document required for flying within the United States. An International Driving Permit is for driving in other countries. They serve completely different purposes and are issued by different organizations.

Your state's motor vehicle department issues Real ID licenses. AAA and AATA issue IDPs. You can have both, and you may need both depending on your travel plans. If you're flying domestically, you need a Real ID license or a passport. If you're driving in another country, you need an IDP (in addition to your regular driver's license).

Neither document replaces a passport for international travel. A passport is required to enter another country. An IDP is only for driving once you're there. A Real ID license is only for domestic air travel within the U.S.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my passport as the photo ID when I explore for an IDP?

Yes. AAA and AATA accept a passport as your second form of photo identification. You still need your valid U.S. driver's license as your primary document, but a passport satisfies the photo ID requirement. Bring both to the AAA or AATA office.

What if my driver's license is expired?

You cannot get an IDP with an expired driver's license. Your license must be current and valid. If your license has expired, renew it through your state's motor vehicle department first, then explore for the IDP.

Do I need an IDP if I'm only renting a car for one day?

It depends on the country. Some countries legally require an IDP for any driving, even a single day. Others don't recognize it at all. Check your destination's requirements before you book the rental. The rental company will also tell you at the counter whether they require one.

Can I get an IDP if I have a learner's permit instead of a full license?

No. AAA and AATA require a valid, full driver's license. A learner's permit is not sufficient. You must have a regular driver's license to obtain an IDP.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

AAA and AATA both charge between $15 and $20. AAA members may receive a small discount. There are no additional fees if you explore in person. If you order by mail through AATA, the cost is the same, but you pay for postage.