What an International Driving Permit 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 and does not replace your state license — you must carry both documents together when driving abroad. The permit tells police and rental car companies in other countries that your U.S. license is valid, since many countries do not recognize American licenses on their own.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. You cannot get an IDP from your state's DMV, your local police department, or any other source. The permit costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years, depending on which you choose.

Whether you actually need an IDP depends on where you are driving. Some countries require it by law; others do not. Many rental car companies ask for one even when the country does not legally require it. Before you travel, check the specific rules for each country on your itinerary, since requirements vary widely.

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.
  • You need a current, unexpired U.S. driver's license and a passport or other government ID to get an IDP.
  • AAA issues permits in person at local offices or by mail, while AATA issues them by mail only.
  • The permit costs $15 to $20 and takes one to two weeks by mail or is ready the same day in person at AAA.
  • Check the laws of each country you plan to visit, since some require an IDP and others do not.

Getting an IDP Through AAA

If you are a AAA member, you can get an IDP at your local AAA office the same day you visit. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or state ID, and one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches). The cost is $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit. You will fill out form DS-11 on the spot, and the permit will be ready within minutes.

If you are not a AAA member or prefer not to visit an office, you can order by mail. Send your completed form DS-11, a copy of your driver's license, a copy of your passport or state ID, one passport-sized photo, and a check or money order to your nearest AAA office. AAA will mail the permit back to you within one to two weeks. You can find your local AAA office and read the form at aaa.com.

AAA membership is not required to get an IDP, but non-members pay the same price as members. If you plan to get the permit by mail, membership does not speed up the process.

Getting an IDP Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance issues IDPs by mail only — there is no in-person option. Send your completed form, a copy of your driver's license, a copy of your passport or state ID, one passport-sized photo, and a check or money order to AATA. The cost is $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit. AATA will mail the permit back within one to two weeks.

You can order from AATA online at aata.org or by mail. The online option is faster because you can upload your documents and pay by credit card instead of waiting for a check to arrive. AATA has no membership requirement and no membership discount.

Documents You Need Before You Start

Gather these items before you contact AAA or AATA. You will need a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license — an expired license will not work. You also need a second form of government ID, either a passport or a state ID card. A passport is preferred because it is the document you will carry when you travel anyway.

You will also need one passport-sized photograph, which is 2 inches by 2 inches. You can get these taken at most pharmacies, post offices, or photo studios for $5 to $15. Do not use a photo from your phone or computer — it must be a physical print on photo paper.

If you are ordering by mail, you will need copies of your license and ID, not the originals. Make clear, readable photocopies on white paper. If you are explore in person at AAA, bring the originals.

Timeline: When to Order Before Your Trip

Order your IDP at least two weeks before you travel if you are using the mail option. This gives AATA or AAA time to process your request and for the permit to reach you. If you need it faster, visit a AAA office in person — most can issue it the same day.

If your trip is less than two weeks away and you do not have an AAA office nearby, call AAA or AATA to ask about rush processing. Some offices can expedite for an additional fee, but this is not may provide. The safest approach is to order as soon as you know your travel dates.

How Long an IDP Lasts and When to Renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year or three years, depending on which you choose when you order. The three-year permit costs only $5 more than the one-year, so most people choose the three-year option if they plan to travel more than once.

Your IDP expires on a specific date printed on the front. You cannot renew it — you must order a new one. Order your replacement at least two weeks before the expiration date if you are traveling soon after it expires. You can order a new IDP even if your current one has not expired yet; there is no rule against having two at once.

What Happens When You Drive Abroad

Carry your IDP and your U.S. driver's license together at all times when you are driving. Police in other countries will ask for both documents. The IDP translates your license information, so the officer can verify that your U.S. license is real and currently valid. Without the IDP, some countries will not recognize your U.S. license as proof that you are a licensed driver.

Rental car companies also ask for both documents when you pick up a car. Some will not rent to you without an IDP, even if the country does not legally require one. Check the rental company's policy before you book, since requirements vary by company and by country.

The IDP does not change the rules of the road or give you permission to drive in countries where you are not allowed. It straightforward proves that you hold a valid U.S. license. You must still follow local traffic laws, speed limits, and licensing rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit for every country I visit?

No. Some countries require it by law, others do not, and some have no requirement but rental companies ask for it anyway. Check the specific rules for each country before you travel. The U.S. State Department website lists requirements by country, and your rental car company can tell you their policy.

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

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be current and unexpired. If your license has expired, renew it through your state's DMV first, then order the IDP.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact AAA or AATA from abroad to report it lost. You can request an emergency replacement, though availability depends on where you are. In most cases, you can continue driving with just your U.S. license until you return home and order a new IDP. Check with your rental car company about their policy on lost permits.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document only. An international license does not exist — some countries issue their own licenses to residents, but the U.S. does not issue a separate international license. Your U.S. driver's license is your only license.

Can I get an International Driving Permit from my state's DMV?

No. Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue IDPs. Your state's DMV cannot issue one, and neither can any other organization. If someone else offers to sell you an IDP, it is not legitimate.