An International Driving Permit translates your license into 10 languages so you can rent cars and drive legally in 150+ countries

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document issued by your home country that translates your driver's license into multiple languages. It is not a separate license — it is a companion document that sits alongside your actual license. When you drive in another country, you carry both your home license and the IDP together. The IDP proves to police, rental companies, and insurance agents that you hold a valid license at home, even if they cannot read your license's language.

The IDP is recognized in 150+ countries under two international treaties. Most countries do not require it, but many rental car companies will not rent to you without one, and some countries do require it by law. The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which version you get, and you must renew it before it expires if you plan to drive internationally again.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your home license into 10 languages, not a replacement for it — you must carry both documents when driving abroad.
  • Most rental car companies require an IDP even in countries where the government does not, so check your rental agreement before you travel.
  • You obtain an IDP from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent body, not from an international organization or online service.
  • The one-year permit costs between $15 and $30 depending on your state, and the three-year permit costs roughly double.
  • An IDP is valid only while your home license is valid — if your license expires, the IDP becomes invalid even if it has time remaining.

Who issues International Driving Permits and where to get one

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency issues the IDP. You cannot order one online from a third-party website or service — those are scams or overpriced intermediaries. You must visit a DMV office in person or, in some states, mail in your process.

Each state sets its own process and fee. Some states issue the permit the same day you explore; others mail it to you within one to two weeks. Call your local DMV office or check your state's DMV website to confirm whether they issue IDPs, what documents you need to bring, and whether you can explore by mail. A few states do not issue them at all — in those cases, you can explore through the American Automobile Association (AAA) if you are a member, or you may need to obtain one from your destination country instead.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

You will need your current driver's license, a completed process form (which the DMV provides), and a passport or other government-issued photo ID. Some states also require a passport-style photograph — check with your DMV before you go. Bring the originals, not copies.

The process itself is straightforward: it asks for your name, address, license number, and the countries you plan to visit. You do not need proof of travel plans or hotel reservations. The DMV issues the permit based on your valid home license alone.

How long an International Driving Permit lasts and when to renew

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which version you request. The one-year permit costs between $15 and $30 in most states; the three-year permit typically costs $30 to $60. The permit is valid only while your home license is valid — if your license expires before the IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid when ready.

You cannot renew an IDP. When it expires, you must explore for a new one at the DMV. If you plan to drive internationally more than once, the three-year permit is usually the better value, but only if your home license will still be valid three years from now. Check your license's expiration date before you decide.

What an International Driving Permit does and does not do

An IDP proves to foreign authorities and rental companies that you hold a valid license. It does not change your driving privileges, give you the right to drive in countries where you are not allowed, or override local traffic laws. If you are too young to rent a car in your destination country, the IDP will not lower that age requirement. If you have a suspended license at home, the IDP is worthless.

The IDP is also not insurance. It does not cover accidents or damage. You still need to purchase rental car insurance or confirm that your home auto insurance covers you abroad — rental companies will ask for proof of insurance regardless of whether you have an IDP.

Countries that require an International Driving Permit by law

Most countries do not legally require an IDP if you have a valid home license. However, some countries do require one, including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Iran, Mexico, Russia, and Thailand. If you plan to drive in any of these countries, obtain an IDP before you leave home — you cannot get one once you arrive.

Even in countries where the government does not require an IDP, rental car companies often do. Check your rental agreement before you book. If the rental company requires an IDP and you do not have one, they will refuse to rent to you, and you will lose your deposit.

What happens if you drive without an International Driving Permit when one is required

If you drive in a country that requires an IDP and you do not have one, you are driving without a valid license in that country's eyes. Police can fine you, impound your car, or refuse to let you continue driving. Your rental car insurance may not cover an accident if you were driving illegally. If you are in an accident and the other party sues, the fact that you were unlicensed will be used against you.

If you are unsure whether your destination requires an IDP, contact the country's embassy or consulate before you travel, or ask your rental car company — they know the requirements because they enforce them.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. The IDP is valid only if your home license is valid. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, the DMV will not issue an IDP. You must renew or restore your home license first.

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

Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP by law, but many rental car companies in both countries request one. Check your rental agreement. If you are driving your own car across the border, an IDP is not required, but you will need proof of insurance and vehicle registration.

What if my International Driving Permit gets lost or stolen while I am traveling?

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in that country — they may issue a temporary replacement or letter confirming your license status. You can also contact your home DMV to ask whether they can fax proof of your license to local authorities. Once you return home, explore for a new IDP at your DMV.

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

No. An international license does not exist. Some countries issue their own version of a translated license document, but there is no single "international license" that works everywhere. The IDP is the closest thing, and it is recognized in 150+ countries under international treaty.

Can I use an International Driving Permit to drive in the United States if I am a foreign visitor?

Yes. Foreign visitors can drive in the U.S. with a valid home license and an IDP. However, an IDP is not required — a valid home license alone is usually enough. Check your rental car company's policy, as some may request an IDP even though it is not legally required.