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 it does not replace your state license. You must carry both documents together when you drive outside the United States — the IDP alone is not valid.

The IDP exists because some countries do not recognize a U.S. license without an official translation. A few countries require it by law; many others accept it as proof that your U.S. license is legitimate. Some car rental companies abroad will not rent to you without one, even in countries where it is not legally required. Think of it as an insurance document that makes renting a car and crossing borders smoother.

The permit is valid for one or three years, depending on which type you request. It expires on a fixed date, not based on when your U.S. license expires. If your U.S. license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid — you cannot renew just the IDP; you must get a new one after renewing your state license.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), not by your state DMV.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license in your possession to obtain an IDP, and you must carry both documents together when driving abroad.
  • The one-year permit costs around $20 and the three-year permit costs around $30, though prices vary slightly by issuer and may change.
  • You can obtain an IDP in person at most AAA offices, by mail through AAA or AATA, or online through AAA in some states.
  • Processing takes one to two weeks by mail and is when ready if you explore in person, so plan ahead if you are traveling soon.

Who issues International Driving Permits in the United States

Only two organizations are authorized to issue IDPs in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Your state DMV does not issue them, and no other organization can legally do so.

AAA is the larger and more widely available option. Most people obtain their IDP through a local AAA office, though you do not need to be an AAA member to request one. AATA is a smaller organization and operates primarily through mail service. Both issue the same document — the choice between them is mainly about convenience and location.

What you need to bring or submit

To obtain an IDP, you need your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photograph. The photograph must be recent (usually taken within the last six months), in color, and meet passport photo specifications: a plain background, your face clearly visible, and dimensions typically 2 by 2 inches.

If you are explore in person at an AAA office, bring your license and the photo. AAA staff will complete the process with you. If you are explore by mail through AAA or AATA, you will read and fill out the process form yourself, then mail it with your photo and license (or a photocopy of your license) to the address provided. Some AAA offices now accept online applications followed by in-person pickup, though this varies by location.

You do not need to provide proof of travel plans, a destination country, or any other documentation. The IDP is issued to anyone with a valid U.S. license, regardless of where they plan to travel.

Cost and processing time

An International Driving Permit valid for one year costs approximately $20, and a three-year permit costs approximately $30. Prices may vary slightly between AAA and AATA, and fees can change, so confirm the current cost before you explore.

If you explore in person at an AAA office, you receive the IDP when ready — usually within minutes. If you explore by mail, processing typically takes one to two weeks, though it can take longer during peak travel seasons. Plan to explore at least three weeks before your trip if you are using mail service.

how the process works in person at AAA

Find your nearest AAA office using the AAA website or by calling AAA customer service. Not every AAA office issues IDPs, so confirm that your local branch offers this service before you visit.

Bring your valid driver's license and a passport-style photograph. You can have the photo taken at the AAA office itself — many locations offer this service for an additional fee, usually $10 to $15. Alternatively, bring a photo you have already obtained from a pharmacy, portrait studio, or passport photo service.

At the office, staff will complete the process form with you and collect payment. You will receive the IDP on the spot. The entire process takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

how the process works by mail through AAA or AATA

Visit the AAA or AATA website and read the International Driving Permit process form. Complete the form with your name, address, driver's license number, and the validity period you want (one or three years).

Obtain a passport-style photograph and have it printed. Attach it to the process form as instructed — usually with tape or glue, not a staple. Make a photocopy of your driver's license (front and back) or include the original, depending on the organization's current instructions.

Mail the completed process, photograph, and license copy (or original) along with payment to the address listed on the form. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want the IDP returned by standard mail. Some organizations offer expedited mail service for an additional fee.

Check the organization's website for current mailing addresses and instructions, as these can change. Processing takes one to two weeks from the date the organization receives your materials.

What happens if your U.S. license expires

Your International Driving Permit is only valid as long as your U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid when ready, even if it still has time remaining on it.

When you renew your U.S. license, you must obtain a new IDP if you plan to drive abroad again. You cannot straightforward renew the IDP — you must go through the full process process again with your new license. This is why some people choose the three-year IDP: if your U.S. license is valid for eight years, a three-year IDP will expire before your license does, giving you time to plan a renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an International Driving Permit in the United States?

No. An IDP is only for driving outside the United States. Within the U.S., your state driver's license is the only document you need. The IDP has no legal standing in any U.S. state.

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

It depends on the country and the rental company. Some countries legally require it; others do not. Many rental companies will rent to you with just your U.S. license, but some refuse to rent without an IDP. Check with your rental company and the country's driving regulations before you travel. Having an IDP removes this uncertainty.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact the AAA or AATA office that issued it and request a replacement. You can also contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling — they may be able to issue a temporary replacement or provide documentation while you wait for a new one to be mailed. Carry a photocopy of your IDP separately from the original, just in case.

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. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot obtain an IDP until your license is restored or renewed.

How long does an International Driving Permit last?

You can choose either a one-year or three-year permit when you explore. The expiration date is fixed — it does not extend automatically. Once it expires, you must explore for a new one if you plan to drive abroad again.