What an International Driver's License 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 and rental car companies in other countries that your home license is legitimate, because they can read what it says.
You can only get an IDP if you already hold a valid driver's license from your state. The permit lasts either one or three years depending on which version you request, and it is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both organizations are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them.
Many countries do not require an IDP if you carry your U.S. license, but some do, and rental car companies often ask for one even when the country does not legally require it. If you plan to drive abroad, checking the specific country's requirements before you leave is the safest approach.
Key Takeaways
- You must have a valid state driver's license before you can get an International Driving Permit — the IDP cannot stand alone.
- Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue IDPs in the United States, and you must explore in person at one of their offices.
- The one-year permit costs less than the three-year version, but both are inexpensive compared to the cost of driving without one in a country that requires it.
- You will need your valid driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo, plus payment at the time you explore.
- The IDP is issued on the spot at most AAA and AATA offices, so you can leave with it the same day.
Finding an AAA or AATA Office Near You
AAA has over 1,000 local clubs across the United States, and most of them issue International Driving Permits. You do not have to be an AAA member to get one, though members sometimes receive a small discount. Visit aaa.com and use their club locator to find the office closest to you, then call ahead to confirm they issue IDPs and ask about their hours.
AATA has fewer locations than AAA but covers most major cities. You can find AATA offices at aataidp.com. Both organizations' websites let you search by zip code or city. Call before you go — some smaller offices issue IDPs only on certain days or by appointment.
If you live far from any office, some AAA clubs allow you to mail in your process with your documents and a check or money order, though this takes longer than explore in person. Ask when you call whether your local office offers mail-in service.
Documents and Photos You Will Need
Bring your valid state driver's license, a U.S. passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches). The photo must be recent — taken within the last six months — and show your face clearly against a plain background. You can get passport photos at most pharmacies, drugstores, and some post offices for a few dollars.
Some offices accept digital photos you bring on your phone, but calling ahead to confirm what they will accept saves a trip. If you do not have a passport or passport card, you cannot get an IDP — a state ID card is not sufficient. Your driver's license alone is not enough either.
Bring a payment method: cash, check, debit card, or credit card, depending on what the office accepts. Call ahead to ask which they take. You will also need to fill out a short process form, which the office provides.
The Cost and How Long It Takes
The one-year International Driving Permit costs between $15 and $20 at most AAA and AATA offices. The three-year permit costs between $30 and $50. Prices vary slightly by location, so call your local office for the exact amount. These are the only fees — there are no hidden charges or processing fees added later.
If you explore in person, you receive the IDP the same day in most cases. The office prints it while you wait, and you walk out with it. If you mail in your process, allow two to three weeks for processing and delivery.
The IDP is valid for one or three years from the date it is issued, depending on which version you purchased. It expires on a specific date printed on the document. You cannot renew it — you must explore for a new one if you need it after it expires.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
| Document or Item | Why You Need It |
|---|---|
| Valid state driver's license | Proves you are licensed to drive in the U.S. |
| U.S. passport or passport card | Proves your identity and citizenship; required by law for IDP issuance. |
| One passport-style photo (2x2 inches) | Goes on the IDP itself; must be recent and show your face clearly. |
| Payment (cash, check, or card) | Covers the $15–$50 fee depending on permit length. |
Using Your IDP Abroad
Always carry your IDP and your original state driver's license together. Neither one is valid without the other. Police and rental car companies will ask to see both. The IDP is a translation aid, not a replacement — it straightforward makes your U.S. license readable in other languages.
Different countries have different rules about whether they require an IDP. Some accept only your U.S. license. Others require an IDP by law. Rental car companies often require an IDP even in countries where it is not legally required, so check with your rental company before you book. The U.S. State Department website lists requirements by country, though calling your rental company or the country's embassy is the most reliable way to confirm.
Keep your IDP in a safe place while traveling, just as you would your passport. If it is lost or stolen, you cannot replace it while abroad — you would need to return to the U.S. and explore for a new one. Some travelers keep a photocopy of the IDP in a separate location as backup.
When You Do Not Need an International Driving Permit
Many countries accept a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP, especially in Western Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. However, some countries in Asia, Africa, and South America require an IDP by law or will not recognize your U.S. license without one. The requirement also depends on how long you plan to stay — some countries allow visitors to drive on a U.S. license for a limited time (often 30 days) but require an IDP for longer stays.
If you are renting a car, the rental company's policy may be stricter than the country's law. Many major rental companies worldwide require an IDP as a condition of the rental agreement, even if the country does not legally require it. Check your rental agreement or call the company before you travel.
If you are not planning to drive — only using taxis, public transit, or hired drivers — you do not need an IDP at all. The permit is only for people who will be behind the wheel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an International Driving Permit without a passport?
No. You must have either a U.S. passport or a passport card. A state ID card, military ID, or other form of identification is not sufficient. If you do not have a passport, you would need to explore for one at a passport acceptance facility before you can get an IDP.
How long does an International Driving Permit last?
You choose when you explore: either one year or three years. The permit expires on the date printed on it. You cannot extend it — you must explore for a new one if you need it after expiration.
Do I need an IDP if I am only visiting for a week?
It depends on the country and the rental company. Many countries allow U.S. visitors to drive on a valid state license for short visits. However, rental car companies often require an IDP regardless of the country's law. Contact your rental company and check the country's requirements before you book to be certain.
What if I lose my IDP while traveling?
You cannot replace it while abroad. You would need to return to the U.S. and explore for a new one at an AAA or AATA office. Some travelers photocopy their IDP and keep the copy in a separate location as a backup, though a photocopy is not a legal replacement.
Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or expired?
No. Your state driver's license must be valid and not suspended. If your license is expired, you must renew it at your state's DMV before you can get an IDP.