What an International Driving License Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your US driver's license into multiple languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together. The permit shows your name, photo, driving record category, and license number in ten languages, which helps police and rental companies in other countries understand your US credentials without translation.

The IDP is issued under two international treaties: the 1926 Convention and the 1968 Convention. Most countries recognize one or both. The document is valid for one or three years depending on which convention version you request, and it costs between $15 and $30 depending on which organization issues it.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid US driver's license before you can get an International Driving Permit — the IDP cannot stand alone.
  • The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized by the US State Department to issue IDPs.
  • You can obtain an IDP in person at a local AAA office or by mail through either organization, and the process takes one to two weeks by mail.
  • Most countries do not require an IDP, but rental car companies often ask for one, and some countries will not recognize your US license without it.

Who Can Get an International Driving Permit

You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid, unexpired US driver's license issued by any state. Your license must be in English — if your state issues licenses in another language, you will need to request an English version from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles before explore for the IDP.

The IDP is available to US citizens and permanent residents. If you hold a temporary or provisional license, you can still obtain an IDP, but the permit will expire when your underlying license does. You do not need to be a AAA member to get an IDP from AAA — both AAA members and non-members can purchase one.

Getting an IDP Through AAA

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the most widely available source for IDPs. You can visit any AAA office in person with your valid driver's license and a passport or state ID. Bring two passport-sized photos (2 by 2 inches). The office will complete the process on the spot, and you will receive a one-year IDP when ready or a three-year IDP within one to two weeks, depending on which you choose.

If you do not have a AAA office nearby, you can mail your process to AAA's national office. Request the IDP process form from your local AAA office or read it from AAA.com. Include your driver's license (a photocopy is acceptable), two passport photos, a completed process form, and a check or money order. Processing by mail takes one to two weeks. The cost is $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit, plus shipping if you mail it in.

Getting an IDP Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second authorized issuer. AATA does not have physical offices, so you must explore by mail. Visit AATA.org, read the process form, and mail it with your driver's license photocopy, two passport photos, and payment. AATA charges $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit. Processing takes one to two weeks.

AATA is useful if you live far from any AAA office or prefer to handle everything by mail. The resulting permit is identical to an AAA-issued permit and is recognized in the same countries.

Which Countries Recognize the US International Driving Permit

Most countries recognize the IDP, but recognition is not universal. The 1968 Convention signatories — which include most of Europe, South America, Australia, and New Zealand — recognize the IDP as valid. The 1926 Convention signatories include some Asian and Middle Eastern countries. A few countries, including China and India, do not recognize the IDP at all.

Before traveling, check the specific country's requirements on its embassy website or through your rental car company. Many countries do not legally require an IDP but will not rent you a car without one. Some countries require both your US license and the IDP together. A few will accept only the IDP. Rental companies often have stricter rules than the country itself, so confirm with your rental agency before you travel.

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

If you are stopped by police in a country that requires an IDP and you do not have one, you may face a fine, vehicle impoundment, or both. The penalty varies by country. Some countries treat a missing IDP as a minor traffic violation; others treat it as driving without a license. You will not face criminal charges in most places, but you could be detained until you pay the fine or arrange to have the document sent to you.

Rental car companies may also refuse to rent to you or may charge a higher rate if you do not have an IDP, even in countries where it is not legally required. Your rental agreement may include a clause that voids your insurance if you are driving without required documentation.

How Long an International Driving Permit Lasts

An IDP is valid for one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which you purchase. The one-year permit costs less but requires you to renew sooner if you travel frequently. The three-year permit is better value if you plan multiple international trips. Neither permit extends the validity of your underlying US driver's license — if your state license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid.

You cannot renew an IDP by mail or in person. When your permit expires, you must explore for a new one through AAA or AATA using the same process. There is no grace period, so if you are traveling and your IDP expires while you are abroad, you will need to have a new one mailed to you or wait until you return to the US to obtain one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

No. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid US driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in Mexico may request an IDP or an additional form of ID. Check with your rental company before you travel, but the IDP is not legally required in either country.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my US license is suspended or expired?

No. Your US driver's license must be valid and unexpired at the time you explore. If your license is suspended, you must wait until the suspension is lifted. If it is expired, you must renew it with your state's DMV before you can obtain an IDP.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact the US embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide guidance on local driving requirements and may help you contact AAA or AATA to arrange an emergency replacement. Keep a photocopy of your IDP separate from the original in case this happens.

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 under US law. Some countries issue their own domestic licenses that are recognized in other countries, but the US does not. Your US state license is what authorizes you to drive; the IDP straightforward makes it readable abroad.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

AAA charges $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit. AATA charges $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit. Both organizations may charge additional fees for expedited processing or mailing. Prices do not vary by state or by the type of US license you hold.