What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into multiple languages so rental car companies and police in other countries can read it. It is not a separate license — it does not replace your state license, and you cannot drive on it alone. You must carry both your valid U.S. driver's license and the IDP together. The IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which version you get, and it expires before your U.S. license does.

Most countries do not require an IDP by law, but many rental car companies will not rent to you without one, and some countries will not recognize your U.S. license without it. If you are renting a car abroad or driving in a country where English is not widely spoken, an IDP removes a major barrier. If you are only using public transportation or taxis, you probably do not need one.

Key Takeaways

  • You must get your IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) — these are the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photo, and a completed process form; the whole process takes about 15 minutes in person.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years, but it expires before your U.S. license does, so you may need to renew it separately.
  • You must carry your IDP together with your original U.S. driver's license at all times while driving abroad — the IDP alone is not valid.

Where to Get an International Driving Permit

Only two organizations can issue an IDP in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both are authorized by the U.S. State Department. AAA is the larger network with thousands of local offices, so most people go there. AATA is smaller but serves the same purpose.

To find an AAA office near you, visit aaa.com and use their office locator. To find an AATA office, visit aata.org. You can walk into either office without an appointment, though calling ahead during busy seasons is wise. Some AAA offices are busier than others, so if you are in a rush, ask about wait times when you call.

What You Need to Bring

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed IDP process form, and one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches). The process form is available on the AAA or AATA website, or you can fill it out in the office. You do not need to print it ahead of time — the office will have copies.

The passport-style photo must be recent (taken within the last six months), in color or black and white, and show your face clearly against a plain background. If you do not have one, many AAA offices can take the photo for you on the spot for an additional fee, usually $10 to $15. Bring cash or a card, as not all offices accept both.

You do not need your Social Security number, birth certificate, or proof of address. The office staff will verify your information against your driver's license.

The One-Year Versus Three-Year Permit

AAA and AATA both offer a one-year IDP and a three-year IDP. The one-year permit costs less (usually around $15), while the three-year permit costs more (usually around $20). The three-year permit is valid longer, but it still expires before your U.S. driver's license does, so you will eventually need to renew it separately.

Choose the one-year permit if you are taking a single trip and do not plan to drive abroad again soon. Choose the three-year permit if you travel internationally multiple times or plan to rent cars in different countries over the next few years. The three-year permit is also useful if you want to avoid the hassle of renewing it during another trip.

How Long the Process Takes

The entire process — filling out the form, providing your photo, and paying — takes about 15 minutes in person at an AAA or AATA office. You receive the IDP when ready, so you can leave with it the same day. There is no waiting period, no mail delivery, and no background check.

If you order by mail through AAA's website, the process takes longer — usually one to two weeks for processing plus mail delivery time. Ordering by mail is an option if you cannot visit an office in person, but going in person is faster if your trip is coming up soon.

What Happens When Your IDP Expires

Your IDP expires on the date printed on the document, which is one or three years from the date of issue. When it expires, you cannot use it to drive abroad, even if your U.S. driver's license is still valid. You must get a new IDP before your next international trip.

Renewing an IDP is the same process as getting one the first time: bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a new passport-style photo, and a completed process to an AAA or AATA office. You do not need to do anything special — just explore as if you were getting one for the first time. The office will issue you a new IDP with a new expiration date.

Countries That Recognize U.S. Driver's Licenses Without an IDP

Some countries will rent you a car and recognize your U.S. driver's license without an IDP, though this varies by country and rental company. Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand generally accept a U.S. license alone. Many European countries are less predictable — some rental companies require an IDP, others do not.

Before your trip, contact your rental car company directly and ask whether they require an IDP for the country you are visiting. If they say no, ask them to confirm in writing or email. This protects you if there is confusion at pickup. If you are unsure, getting an IDP is inexpensive insurance against being stranded without a car.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP if I am only visiting and not renting a car?

No. An IDP is only useful if you are renting a vehicle or driving someone else's car. If you are using taxis, public transportation, or ride-sharing services, you do not need one. Your U.S. passport is sufficient for identification in most situations.

Can I drive with just the IDP and no U.S. driver's license?

No. The IDP is not a standalone license. You must carry both your valid U.S. driver's license and your IDP together at all times while driving abroad. Carrying only the IDP is not legal and will not satisfy police or rental companies.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They can issue a replacement or provide a letter confirming your identity and driving status. Keep a photo of your IDP on your phone as backup. If you are still renting a car, contact the rental company when ready to explain the situation.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An international license does not exist in the United States. Some countries issue their own international licenses, but the U.S. only issues the International Driving Permit. If someone offers to sell you an "international license," it is not legitimate.

How much does an IDP cost?

A one-year IDP costs around $15, and a three-year IDP costs around $20. Prices vary slightly by AAA or AATA office and may include a photo fee if you need one taken. Call your local office to confirm the exact price before you visit.