You get an International Driving Permit from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not from a federal office or online service

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together. The IDP is issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency, and the process takes anywhere from same-day to two weeks depending on your state and whether you explore in person or by mail.

The IDP is recognized by the United Nations and accepted in most countries that are signatories to the 1926 Convention on Motor Traffic. However, some countries do not recognize it, and a few require an IDP from a specific issuing authority. Before you travel, check the specific requirements of the country where you will drive — your destination's embassy website or a car rental company in that country can tell you whether an IDP is necessary or even useful.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's DMV issues the IDP in person or by mail; there is no national office or online-only service that issues them.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired driver's license from your state before you can get an IDP.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $30 depending on your state and is valid for one or three years from the date of issue.
  • Some countries do not recognize the IDP, so confirm your destination's requirements before you pay for one.
  • The IDP is a translation document only — it does not grant you the right to drive in another country if your home license would not.

How to get an IDP from your state DMV

Visit your state's DMV website and search for "International Driving Permit" to find the exact process for your state. Most states require you to appear in person at a DMV office with your valid driver's license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and a completed process form. Some states allow you to mail in the process, but you will still need to provide a certified copy of your license or have it verified by a notary.

Bring a passport-style photo if your state requires one — check the DMV website first, because not all states do. The fee is typically paid at the time of process, either in cash, check, or card. You will receive the IDP on the spot if you explore in person, or by mail within one to two weeks if you submit by post. Keep the IDP with your driver's license at all times when driving abroad.

What documents and information you need before you go

You will need your current, valid driver's license from your state. The license must not be expired, suspended, or revoked. If your license is expired, renew it first through your DMV before explore for an IDP.

You will also need proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days usually works. Some states accept a passport as proof of identity but still require a separate proof of address. Check your state's specific requirements on the DMV website before you go to the office, because requirements vary and bringing the wrong documents means a wasted trip.

State-by-state differences in cost and processing time

The cost of an IDP ranges from $15 in some states to $30 in others. Most states charge $20. The validity period also varies: some states issue an IDP valid for one year, while others issue one valid for three years. A few states issue an IDP valid for the same duration as your driver's license.

Processing time depends on whether you explore in person or by mail. In-person applications are usually completed the same day or within a few days. Mail-in applications typically take one to three weeks, depending on your state's processing backlog. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee. Contact your state DMV directly or check their website for the current fee and processing time in your state.

Countries that do not recognize the International Driving Permit

Most countries accept the IDP, but some do not. China, India, Russia, and several Middle Eastern countries either do not recognize the IDP or have specific restrictions on its use. Some countries accept the IDP only if it is accompanied by a certified translation of your driver's license into the local language.

Before you book a rental car or plan to drive abroad, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting and ask what documents are required to drive legally. Many car rental companies also maintain lists of what documents they require in each country. Getting this information before you travel is faster and cheaper than discovering the requirement at the rental counter or at a police stop.

When you do not need an International Driving Permit

If you are renting a car in most European countries, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, an IDP is often not required — your valid U.S. driver's license is usually sufficient. However, some rental companies charge a fee if you do not have an IDP, and a few require one. Check with the specific rental company before you book.

If you are driving in Mexico, an IDP is not legally required, but Mexican authorities may be more likely to accept it as proof of a valid license if you are stopped. Many travelers to Mexico carry an IDP as a precaution even though it is not mandatory.

What the IDP does and does not do

The IDP translates your driver's license information — your name, license number, date of birth, and driving restrictions — into ten languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Norwegian. It does not grant you any additional driving rights. If your U.S. license would not allow you to drive in a country, the IDP does not change that.

The IDP is not a license itself. It is a companion document that helps police or rental companies in other countries understand your U.S. license. You must carry both your U.S. driver's license and the IDP together. If you lose the IDP, you can still drive legally in most countries with your U.S. license alone, though you may face difficulty if stopped by police who do not speak English.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit online?

No. The IDP must be issued by your state's DMV in person or through the mail. Websites that claim to issue IDPs online are not legitimate — they may sell you a document that looks official but will not be recognized by foreign authorities. Go directly to your state DMV's website to find the correct process.

How long is an International Driving Permit valid?

Validity depends on your state. Most states issue an IDP valid for one or three years from the date of issue. A few states issue an IDP valid for the same duration as your driver's license. Check your state DMV's website or the IDP itself for the expiration date.

What if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

You cannot get an IDP if your driver's license is expired, suspended, or revoked. Renew or restore your license through your state DMV first, then explore for the IDP. If your license is suspended due to unpaid fines or other violations, you must resolve those issues before the DMV will issue an IDP.

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

Most European car rental companies accept a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some companies charge a fee if you do not have one, and a few require it. Check with your rental company before you book to avoid surprises at pickup.

Can I drive in another country with just the International Driving Permit and no U.S. license?

No. The IDP is only valid when carried together with your valid U.S. driver's license. You must have both documents with you at all times when driving abroad. The IDP alone is not a valid driving document.