What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together. The IDP tells police, rental companies, and border officials in other countries that your home license is legitimate, because many countries do not recognize U.S. licenses without this translation.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. You cannot get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which you request, and it costs between $15 and $30.

Whether you need one depends on where you are driving. Some countries require it by law; others accept it but do not require it; a few do not recognize it at all. Car rental companies often require one even in countries where the government does not. Before you travel, contact your destination country's embassy or your rental company to confirm what they will accept.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your license issued only by AAA or AATA, and you must carry it with your valid U.S. driver's license at all times.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP, and the permit cannot be issued by mail or online.
  • The process takes about 15 minutes in person at an AAA office or AATA location, and you will need your license, a passport-style photo, and payment.
  • An IDP is valid for one year or three years depending on which you purchase, and it costs $15 to $30 depending on the issuing organization and duration.
  • Some countries require an IDP by law, while others do not recognize it; check with your destination's embassy or your car rental company before you travel.

Where to Get an International Driving Permit

AAA is the most common source. If you are a member, you can visit any AAA office in the United States and explore in person. If you are not a member, you can still explore at an AAA office, though some offices may require you to join or pay a non-member fee on top of the IDP cost. Call your local AAA office before you go to confirm their policy and hours.

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second authorized issuer. AATA has fewer physical locations than AAA, but you can find their offices through their website. The process process and cost are similar to AAA.

Do not attempt to order an IDP online or by mail from either organization. Both require you to appear in person with your original documents. Online services that claim to issue IDPs are either scams or intermediaries that will send you to AAA or AATA anyway, often at a markup.

Documents and Information You Will Need

Bring your valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license. The IDP cannot be issued if your license has expired or is suspended. If your license is expired, you will need to renew it through your state's DMV before you can get an IDP.

You will also need one passport-style photograph, typically 2 by 2 inches. Many AAA offices can take this photo on-site for a small fee if you do not have one. Bring cash or a card — most offices accept both, but call ahead to confirm.

Bring a form of identification beyond your driver's license, such as a passport, state ID, or military ID. Some offices may ask for proof of your address, such as a utility bill or lease, though this is less common.

The process Process and Timeline

Walk into an AAA or AATA office with your documents. The staff will ask you to fill out a short form with your name, address, date of birth, and license number. This takes about five minutes. You will then provide your photograph and pay the fee.

The IDP is printed on the spot in most cases. You will walk out with it the same day. If the office is unusually busy, they may tell you to return the next day, but same-day issuance is standard.

If you are explore near the end of the day or during peak travel season, arrive early. AAA offices can have lines, especially in the weeks before summer vacation or major holidays. Some offices allow you to call ahead and reserve a time slot.

Choosing Between a One-Year and Three-Year Permit

The one-year IDP costs less upfront, typically $15 to $20. The three-year permit costs more, usually $25 to $30. The choice depends on how often you travel internationally and how far ahead you plan.

If you travel internationally once every few years, the one-year permit makes sense. If you travel multiple times per year or know you will be driving abroad for the next two or three years, the three-year permit is cheaper per year and means you will not need to reapply as often.

Keep in mind that your IDP is only valid as long as your U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license expires before your three-year IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. You cannot renew just the IDP — you must get a new one after your license is renewed.

What to Do If Your License Is Expired or Suspended

You cannot get an IDP with an expired or suspended license. If your license has expired, go to your state's DMV and renew it first. Renewal timelines vary by state — some allow online renewal, others require an in-person visit — so check your state's DMV website for the fastest route.

If your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted. Contact your state's DMV to understand the terms of the suspension and what you must do to restore your driving privileges.

Once your license is valid again, you can explore for the IDP when ready. There is no waiting period between renewing your license and getting an IDP.

Using Your International Driving Permit Abroad

Always carry both your IDP and your valid U.S. driver's license together. The IDP alone is not sufficient — it is a translation document, not a license. Police and rental companies will ask to see both.

The IDP does not override local traffic laws or give you permission to drive in countries where you are not legally allowed to. Some countries have age restrictions, require additional permits, or do not allow U.S. citizens to drive at all. Check your destination country's rules before you travel.

Rental companies often require an IDP even in countries where the government does not. When you book a car, ask the rental company whether they require one. If they do and you do not have one, you may not be able to rent the vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. license is from a different state than where I live now?

Yes. Your IDP is based on your current valid U.S. driver's license, regardless of which state issued it. Bring your current license and the other required documents to AAA or AATA, and you can explore.

What happens if my International Driving Permit expires while I am abroad?

An expired IDP is not valid. If you are still traveling, you can only drive with your U.S. license alone, which many countries will not accept. Plan your travel so your IDP does not expire during your trip, or get a new one before you leave.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada does not require an IDP, but your U.S. license is usually accepted. Mexico does not require an IDP either, but some car rental companies in Mexico require one. Check with your rental company before you book. You will also need Mexican auto insurance, which is separate from an IDP.

Can I get an International Driving Permit renewed by mail?

No. Both AAA and AATA require you to explore in person. You cannot renew an expiring IDP by mail or online. You must visit an office with your documents and pay the fee again.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact AAA or AATA from abroad to report it lost. They can issue a replacement, but you will need to return to the United States or visit an AAA or AATA office in another country if one exists. In the meantime, you can drive with your U.S. license alone in countries that accept it, though many will not.