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 when driving abroad. The permit exists because many countries do not recognize U.S. licenses on their own, even though your license is valid at home.

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 DMV, your local police department, or any other source. The permit costs between $15 and $20 depending on which organization you use, and it is valid for one or three years depending on your age and which version you choose.

Some countries require an IDP by law; others accept it as helpful but not mandatory. A few countries accept a U.S. license alone. The safest approach is to get one before you travel, because obtaining one while abroad is difficult and sometimes impossible.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA and must be carried alongside your valid U.S. driver's license, not instead of it.
  • You can get one in person at an AAA office, by mail through AAA, or online through AATA, with costs ranging from $15 to $20.
  • The permit is valid for one year (if you are under 18) or three years (if you are 18 or older), and you will need a passport-style photo and your current license.
  • Some countries legally require an IDP; others do not, so check your destination country's rules before you travel.
  • An IDP does not give you permission to drive in another country — it only translates your existing U.S. license into languages that country recognizes.

Getting an IDP Through AAA

The American Automobile Association is the most widely available source for an International Driving Permit. If you are an AAA member, you can visit any AAA office in person with your valid driver's license, one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and $15 to $20. The permit is issued on the spot, and you walk out with it the same day. AAA offices are located in most states, though availability varies by region.

If you cannot visit an office in person, AAA also accepts mail-in requests. You send your driver's license, a passport photo, a completed process form (available on the AAA website), and payment to your regional AAA office. Processing takes one to two weeks, and AAA returns your license with the permit. Non-members can use this service as well, though the fee may be slightly higher.

To find your nearest AAA office or to request a mail-in process, visit the AAA website and search by zip code. AAA membership is not required to get an IDP, though members sometimes receive faster service or a small discount.

Getting an IDP Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance is the second authorized issuer and offers a faster online option. You can order an IDP through the AATA website without visiting an office. The process requires you to upload a digital passport photo, provide your driver's license number and expiration date, and pay $20 online. AATA then mails the permit to you, typically within five to seven business days.

AATA does not have physical offices, so the online and mail route is your only option. This makes it useful if you live far from an AAA office or need the permit quickly. The AATA website is the official source — do not use third-party websites claiming to issue IDPs, as they are not authorized by the State Department and their permits may not be recognized abroad.

What You Need Before You Order

Before contacting AAA or AATA, gather these items: a valid U.S. driver's license (it must not be expired), one passport-style photo (2x2 inches, color or black and white), and payment (cash, check, or credit card depending on the method). Your license must be current — an expired license disqualifies you, and you will need to renew it through your state DMV first.

The passport photo is a specific size and format. Most drugstore photo services (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart) can print passport photos for $5 to $15. If you order online through AATA, you can upload a digital photo instead of printing one, which saves time and money.

You do not need a passport to get an IDP, only a valid driver's license. However, you will need your passport when you actually travel, since the IDP only translates your license — it does not replace your passport for border crossing.

How Long an IDP Lasts and When to Renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for either one year or three years, depending on your age when you explore. If you are under 18, the permit lasts one year. If you are 18 or older, you can choose a one-year or three-year permit. The three-year option costs the same as the one-year option at AAA ($15 to $20), so most adults choose the three-year version.

The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. An expired IDP is not recognized by foreign authorities, so if you plan to drive abroad again after it expires, you will need to order a new one. The process is identical to your first order — you submit your current license, a new photo, and payment.

Your IDP expires on its printed date regardless of whether your U.S. driver's license expires. If your U.S. license expires before your IDP does, you must renew your license through your state DMV, but you do not automatically need a new IDP unless the IDP itself has expired.

Countries That Require or Recognize an IDP

Requirements vary by country and change periodically. Some countries legally require an IDP — these include France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Greece, and many others in Europe and Asia. Some countries accept an IDP but do not require it, meaning your U.S. license alone may work, though an IDP reduces the risk of disputes with police. A few countries (Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom) generally accept a U.S. license without an IDP, though carrying one is still recommended.

The safest approach is to check the specific rules for your destination country before you travel. Contact the country's embassy or consulate in the United States, or visit the U.S. State Department's travel advisory page for your destination. Many car rental companies also list their license requirements on their websites — if a rental company requires an IDP, that is a strong signal that the country does too.

An IDP does not override local driving laws or give you permission to drive if you are not legally allowed to. It only translates your existing license. If your U.S. license is suspended or revoked, an IDP will not restore your right to drive anywhere.

What Happens If You Drive Without an IDP in a Country That Requires One

If you drive in a country that legally requires an IDP and you do not have one, you risk a fine, vehicle impoundment, or both. Police in countries with strict IDP requirements may not accept a U.S. license alone as proof of your right to drive, even though your license is valid in the United States. The fine amount varies by country but can range from $50 to several hundred dollars.

In some cases, a rental car company may refuse to rent to you without an IDP, even if the country does not legally require one. This is because the company wants to avoid liability if you are stopped by police. Checking the rental company's policy before you book prevents this problem.

Getting an IDP before you travel costs $15 to $20 and takes a few days to a few weeks. The cost of a fine or the hassle of a vehicle impoundment abroad is far higher, so ordering one in advance is the practical choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not expired when you explore for an IDP. If your license has expired, you must renew it through your state DMV first. Once your license is renewed, you can then order an IDP.

Do I need an IDP if I am renting a car in Canada or the UK?

Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand generally accept a U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some rental car companies may still request one, so check your rental agreement before you book. Carrying an IDP does not hurt and removes any doubt.

How long does it take to get an IDP if I order it online through AATA?

AATA typically mails the permit within five to seven business days of your online order. If you need it faster, visit an AAA office in person and receive it the same day. Plan ahead if you are traveling soon.

Can I use an IDP to drive in the United States?

No. An IDP is only for driving in foreign countries. In the United States, you must carry your valid U.S. driver's license. An IDP has no legal effect on U.S. roads.

What if my IDP is lost or stolen while I am traveling?

Contact AAA or AATA when ready to report it. You can also contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling — they may be able to issue a replacement or provide a letter confirming your license status. Carry a photo of your IDP or a copy of your order confirmation as backup.