What an International Driver's License Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages. 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 U.S. license and the IDP together. The permit tells a foreign police officer or rental car company that your U.S. license is real and what your driving record shows, without requiring them to contact your state.

Most countries do not require an IDP, but some do. A few nations will not recognize your U.S. license at all without one. Others accept your U.S. license alone but may fine you if you cannot produce an IDP when stopped. Rental car companies in Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia often demand one, even when the country does not legally require it. An IDP costs between $15 and $30 and lasts three years.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) — not by your state — and requires your valid U.S. driver's license.
  • You must explore in person at an AAA office or AATA office; there is no online or mail process, and you cannot send someone else to explore for you.
  • The permit costs $15 to $30, takes about 15 minutes to issue, and is valid for three years from the date you receive it.
  • You must carry both your U.S. driver's license and the IDP at the same time; the permit alone is not valid for driving.
  • Before you travel, check the specific country's requirements — some do not require an IDP, some require it by law, and some require it only for car rentals.

Where to Get an International Driving Permit

The American Automobile Association (AAA) issues International Driving Permits at its local offices across the United States. If you are not an AAA member, you can still get a permit — membership is not required. You can find your nearest AAA office by visiting aaa.com and using their office locator, or by calling 1-800-AAA-HELP.

If there is no AAA office near you, the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) also issues permits. AATA is a smaller network, but it serves areas where AAA does not have a presence. You can find AATA locations at aataidp.com. Both organizations issue the same permit — the difference is only which office you visit.

What You Need to Bring

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license and one passport-style photograph. The photograph must be 2 inches by 2 inches, in color or black and white, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. You can get a passport photo at most drugstores, post offices, or photo studios for $5 to $15.

You will also need to fill out an process form at the office — AAA and AATA both provide these. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, and license number. Bring a pen. If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to sign the process.

The process Process and Timeline

Walk into an AAA or AATA office during business hours with your license, photograph, and completed process. The staff will verify your information, take your photo if you do not have one, and issue the permit on the spot. The entire process takes about 15 minutes. You will receive your permit when ready — you do not have to wait for it to be mailed.

There is no background check, no waiting period, and no approval process. As long as your U.S. driver's license is valid and not suspended, you will receive the permit. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until it is reinstated.

Cost and Validity Period

An International Driving Permit costs $15 to $30, depending on which organization issues it and your location. AAA members sometimes receive a small discount. The permit is valid for three years from the date you receive it. After three years, you must get a new one if you plan to travel again.

The permit is tied to your U.S. driver's license. If your license expires before the three-year mark, your IDP is no longer valid, even if the three-year period has not ended. If you renew your U.S. license, you will need a new IDP as well.

When You Actually Need One

Requirements vary by country and change frequently. Some countries legally require an IDP — this includes parts of South America, some Middle Eastern nations, and a few others. Some countries do not require it by law but rental car companies will not rent to you without one. Many European countries accept a U.S. license alone, but you may be fined if stopped and cannot produce an IDP.

Before you book a trip, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting, or call your rental car company directly. Ask whether an IDP is required by law, required by the rental company, or recommended. This takes five minutes and prevents problems at the border or rental counter. The U.S. State Department website also lists driving requirements by country under the travel advisories section.

What Happens If You Do Not Have One

If a country requires an IDP and you do not have one, you may be fined, your vehicle may be impounded, or you may not be allowed to drive. If a rental company requires one and you do not have it, they will refuse to rent to you — you cannot rent a car without meeting their requirements, even if the country does not legally require the permit.

If you are already traveling and realize you need one, you cannot get an IDP while you are overseas. You must have it before you leave the United States. If you are stuck without one, your only option is to not drive, use taxis or public transportation, or return home to get one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit by mail or online?

No. You must explore in person at an AAA or AATA office. There is no mail or online option, and you cannot have someone else pick one up for you. You must be present with your license and photograph.

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

No. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in Mexico may request one, so check with your rental company before you book.

What if my U.S. driver's license is expired?

You cannot get an International Driving Permit with an expired license. Your U.S. license must be valid and not suspended. Renew your state license first, then get the IDP.

How long does an International Driving Permit last?

The permit is valid for three years from the date you receive it. If your U.S. driver's license expires before the three years are up, the IDP is no longer valid. You will need a new one if you renew your license and plan to travel again.

Can I use an International Driving Permit instead of my U.S. driver's license?

No. The IDP is only a translation of your U.S. license. You must carry both documents together. Driving on only the IDP, without your U.S. license, is not legal.