What an International Driver's License Is and Where You Can Get One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. 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 U.S. license is legitimate, even if they cannot read English.

You obtain an IDP through one of two organizations in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs under the 1926 International Convention on Motor Vehicle Traffic. Neither organization is a government agency, but both operate under federal authority to issue these documents.

The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. It cannot be renewed — you must obtain a new one if you need it after expiration. Many countries will not accept an expired IDP, even if your U.S. license is still valid.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA and costs between $15 and $20, depending on which organization you use.
  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license in your possession to obtain an IDP; the permit cannot be issued without it.
  • AAA issues IDPs at most local AAA offices during business hours, while AATA issues them by mail only.
  • The IDP is valid for exactly one year and cannot be renewed; you must obtain a new one if you need it after that period.
  • Some countries do not recognize the IDP, so you should confirm with your destination country's embassy or consulate before traveling.

Getting an IDP Through AAA

The American Automobile Association issues IDPs at most of its local club offices across the country. To obtain one, you visit an AAA office in person with your valid U.S. driver's license and a completed process form. AAA does not issue IDPs by mail or online.

The process is form DS-11 equivalent for IDP purposes, though AAA uses its own paperwork. You can read the form from the AAA website before you go, or you can fill it out at the office. Bring a passport-style photograph (2x2 inches) — some AAA offices have photo services on-site if you do not have one. The cost is typically $15 to $20, depending on your local AAA club.

Processing is when ready at most locations. You walk out with your IDP the same day. AAA offices are open during standard business hours, usually Monday through Friday and some Saturday hours. Call your local AAA office ahead of time to confirm they issue IDPs and to check their current hours, since not every AAA location offers this service.

Getting an IDP Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance issues IDPs by mail only. You cannot obtain one in person at an AATA office. To request an IDP, you mail a completed process form, a photocopy of your valid U.S. driver's license, and a passport-style photograph (2x2 inches) to the AATA address listed on their website.

The cost is $20. Include a check or money order with your process — AATA does not accept credit cards by mail. Processing takes approximately two to four weeks from the date AATA receives your process. If you need the IDP quickly, AATA is not the right choice.

AATA's mailing address and current process form are on their official website. Double-check the address before you mail anything, as it may change. Some travelers use AATA when they cannot reach a local AAA office or prefer to handle the process by mail.

What Documents and Information You Need

Regardless of which organization you use, you need the same core items. First, your valid U.S. driver's license — expired licenses will not work. The IDP is a translation of your current license, so the license must be in force on the day you obtain the IDP.

Second, a passport-style photograph, 2x2 inches. This is a head-and-shoulders photo with a plain background, the same type used for passport applications. You can have one taken at most AAA offices, at CVS or Walgreens photo departments, or at professional photography studios. Cost is usually $10 to $15.

Third, a completed process form. Both AAA and AATA provide these on their websites. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, driver's license number, and signature. It is straightforward and takes five minutes to complete.

You do not need a passport to obtain an IDP, though you will need one to travel internationally. You do not need proof of citizenship or residency beyond what is on your driver's license.

Countries That Accept and Reject the IDP

Most countries that are signatories to the 1926 International Convention accept the IDP. This includes most of Europe, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. However, acceptance varies by country and sometimes by region within a country.

Some countries do not recognize the IDP at all. China, Russia, India, and several others either do not accept it or have restrictions on its use. Some countries accept it only if you also carry an official translation of your U.S. license obtained through their own government channels.

Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country and ask whether they recognize the U.S. International Driving Permit. Many embassies have this information on their websites. Do not assume the IDP will work — confirmation takes ten minutes and can prevent problems at a rental counter or a police stop.

How to Use Your IDP When You Travel

Always carry your IDP together with your valid U.S. driver's license. The IDP is not a standalone document — it is a companion to your license. If you are stopped by police or asked to present your license at a rental car counter, show both documents together.

The IDP translates your license information into French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, Finnish, and Norwegian. It does not translate your license into languages like Mandarin, Arabic, or Russian. If you are traveling to a country where none of these ten languages are widely understood, the IDP may be less useful, though it still serves as official confirmation that your U.S. license is valid.

Rental car companies in most countries will accept the IDP without question. Some may ask to see it specifically. A few may require an additional official translation of your license obtained through the destination country's government — this is rare but does happen in a small number of countries.

Replacing a Lost or Damaged IDP

If your IDP is lost, stolen, or damaged before it expires, you must obtain a new one. There is no replacement or reissuance process — you go through the same process process as if you were obtaining one for the first time. You pay the full fee again ($15 to $20 depending on the organization) and provide the same documents.

If you are traveling and your IDP is lost abroad, you cannot obtain a replacement while you are out of the country. You would need to return to the United States or contact the U.S. embassy in that country to ask about options. Most travelers in this situation straightforward use their U.S. driver's license alone and hope they are not stopped by police.

To avoid this problem, make a photocopy of your IDP and store it separately from the original. Some travelers photograph it with their phone as well. Neither of these is a legal replacement, but they can help you remember the details if you need to explain the loss to a rental company or police officer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Europe?

Most European rental car companies will rent to you with just your U.S. driver's license, but many recommend or require an IDP as well. Having one eliminates any question and is inexpensive insurance. Check with your rental company before you book to see what they require.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. license is suspended or expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and in good standing on the day you obtain the IDP. A suspended license or an expired license will disqualify you. You must renew your U.S. license first.

How long does it take to get an IDP if I use AAA?

AAA issues most IDPs on the same day you explore, during your visit to the office. Processing is when ready. If you use AATA, expect two to four weeks by mail.

What if the country I'm visiting doesn't recognize the IDP?

Contact that country's embassy or consulate before you travel and ask what documents they require. Some countries require an official translation of your U.S. license obtained through their own government. You may need to obtain this translation before you leave the United States.

Can I renew my IDP before it expires?

No. The IDP cannot be renewed. It is valid for exactly one year from the date of issue. After one year, it expires and is no longer valid. You must obtain a new one if you need it after that date.