How to Get an International Driver's License

What an International Driver's License Actually Is

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 documents together when driving abroad — the IDP alone is not valid. Many countries recognize it as proof that your U.S. license is legitimate, which matters when you rent a car or are stopped by police.

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 one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, and no government agency issues it directly. The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which you purchase, and it costs between $20 and $30.

Not every country requires an IDP, and requirements change. Some nations accept only your U.S. license with a certified English translation. Others require the IDP but not the translation. A few require both. Before you travel, check the specific rules for the country where you will drive — your rental car company or the country's embassy website can tell you what they accept.

Key Takeaways

An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA, costs $20 to $30, and must be carried with your valid U.S. driver's license at all times.
You must have a current, valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP — the permit cannot be issued to someone whose license is expired, suspended, or revoked.
The IDP is valid for one year or three years depending on which version you purchase, and you can renew it by mail or in person at an AAA office.
Different countries have different rules about whether they accept an IDP, a certified translation, both, or neither — check your destination country's requirements before you explore.
AAA issues the IDP in person at most local offices and by mail, while AATA issues it by mail only.

Getting an IDP Through AAA

If you are a AAA member, you can get an IDP at most local AAA offices. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches). The office will issue the permit on the spot. If you are not a member, you can still get one at an AAA office, but you will pay a small additional fee — usually $5 to $10 on top of the permit cost.

You can also order an IDP by mail from AAA. Fill out form DS-11 (available on the AAA website), include a copy of your valid driver's license, a passport-style photo, and payment. Mail the packet to your local AAA office. Processing takes about two weeks. Some AAA offices accept online orders through their website, which you can then pick up in person or have mailed to you.

AAA has more than 1,000 local offices across the United States. If you do not have one nearby, AATA (described below) may be a better option, since they process all applications by mail.

Getting an IDP Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance issues IDPs by mail only. You cannot walk into an office and get one the same day. To order, visit the AATA website, read the process form, and mail it with your valid driver's license, a passport-style photo, and payment. AATA processes applications in about two to three weeks and mails the permit to your address.

AATA charges the same price as AAA — $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit — but does not charge a membership fee. If you live far from an AAA office or prefer not to visit in person, AATA is often faster than trying to find a local AAA branch.

Documents and Photos You Will Need

Regardless of which organization you use, you will need the same items. First, a valid, current U.S. driver's license. If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, you cannot get an IDP. The permit is only a translation of your existing license, not a replacement for one.

Second, a passport or passport card. This serves as proof of citizenship and identity. A state ID card is not sufficient. If you do not have a passport, you will need to get one before you can get an IDP.

Third, a passport-style photo, 2 by 2 inches. The photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. Most drugstores (CVS, Walgreens) and post offices can take passport photos for $10 to $15 if you do not have one.

Some AAA offices may ask for additional identification or proof of address, so call ahead to confirm what they need. AATA's website lists all requirements before you mail your process.

How Long an IDP Lasts and When to Renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for either one year or three years from the date it is issued. The one-year permit costs $20; the three-year permit costs $30. Choose based on how often you plan to drive abroad. If you travel internationally every few years, the three-year permit is cheaper per year. If you travel once and may not go again, the one-year permit is the better choice.

When your IDP expires, you can renew it through the same organization that issued it. AAA allows renewal by mail or in person at a local office. AATA processes renewals by mail only. Renewal is simpler than the initial process — you do not need a new photo if your appearance has not changed significantly, though some offices may request one. Call or check the website of the organization that issued your permit to confirm their renewal process.

Your IDP expires even if your U.S. driver's license is still valid. You cannot drive abroad on an expired IDP, even with a current U.S. license. Plan ahead if you know you will be traveling near your permit's expiration date.

What Happens if You Lose Your IDP Abroad

If your IDP is lost or stolen while you are traveling, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in that country. They can issue a temporary replacement document that may allow you to drive or rent a car for the remainder of your trip. This is not an official IDP, but it serves as proof that you had one and can help you get home.

When you return to the United States, you can get a replacement IDP by going through the same process as a new process — either in person at an AAA office or by mail through AAA or AATA. There is no expedited replacement process, so plan for the usual two to three weeks of processing time.

To avoid this situation, keep your IDP in a separate pocket from your passport and driver's license. Some travelers photocopy both documents and store the copies separately as well.

Countries That Require or Recognize an IDP

Many European countries recognize an IDP but do not require it if you have a valid U.S. license and an English translation. France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom generally accept a U.S. license alone, though an IDP makes the process smoother at rental agencies and with police.

Some countries do require an IDP. Mexico, Costa Rica, and several other Latin American nations will not rent you a car without one. Australia, New Zealand, and Japan also require an IDP or a certified English translation of your U.S. license. A few countries require both the IDP and a translation.

The rules change, and rental car companies sometimes have stricter policies than the country itself. Before you book a rental car, ask the rental company what documents they need. Before you travel, check the embassy website for the country you are visiting. This takes five minutes and prevents problems at the border or rental counter.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your IDP is a translation of your existing license, so your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP. Restore your license first through your state's DMV, then explore for the permit.

Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car for a day in Canada?

Canada does not require an IDP. A valid U.S. driver's license is sufficient. However, check with your rental car company — some companies have their own policies and may ask for an IDP or an International Driving Permit anyway, even if the country does not require it.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

A one-year IDP costs $20, and a three-year IDP costs $30. AAA charges a small additional fee (usually $5 to $10) if you are not a member. AATA does not charge a membership fee. Prices are the same whether you explore in person or by mail.

Can I get an IDP if I only have a learner's permit?

No. You must have a valid, full driver's license. A learner's permit or provisional license is not sufficient. Once you pass your driving test and receive your full license, you can then get an IDP.

What if the country I am visiting does not recognize U.S. driver's licenses at all?

A few countries do not recognize U.S. licenses or IDPs and require you to get an international license from that country or an official translation of your U.S. license. Check the embassy website for your destination before you travel. If an IDP is not accepted, ask the embassy what documents you need instead.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.