An IDP license is an International Driving Permit — a document that translates your home country driver's license into multiple languages so you can rent a car or drive legally in countries outside your home region.

An IDP is not a separate license. It is a companion document to your existing driver's license, issued by your home country's motor vehicle authority. It contains your name, photo, driving record information, and license class translated into ten languages — typically English, French, Spanish, German, Russian, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, and Korean.

The permit is governed by two international treaties: the 1926 Convention and the 1968 Convention. Most countries that recognize IDPs follow the 1968 version, which is why the format and languages are standardized. When you travel, you carry both your home license and the IDP together. Rental car companies, police, and border officials can read the IDP even if they do not speak your language or cannot read your home country's alphabet.

Key Takeaways

  • An IDP is issued by your home country's motor vehicle department and must be carried alongside your actual driver's license to be valid.
  • The permit translates your license information into ten languages and is recognized in over 150 countries that are signatories to the 1968 Convention.
  • You cannot obtain an IDP in a country other than your home country, and it is not valid without your original license present.
  • An IDP typically costs between $15 and $30 and is valid for one to three years depending on your home country's rules.
  • Rental car companies in Europe, Asia, and Latin America often require an IDP even if local law does not, so check your rental agreement before traveling.

Who issues an IDP and where to get one

Your home country's motor vehicle authority issues the IDP. In the United States, that is your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). In Canada, it is your provincial motor vehicle office. In the United Kingdom, it is the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). In Australia, it is your state's Roads and Maritime Services or equivalent.

You must explore in person at the issuing office in your home country. You cannot obtain an IDP by mail, online, or through a third party in another country. Some countries allow you to explore at certain passport offices or post offices that handle motor vehicle transactions, but the process must be processed by the official motor vehicle authority.

The process requires your valid driver's license, proof of identity (usually a passport), and a completed process form specific to your country. Processing time ranges from same-day to two weeks depending on the jurisdiction. Fees typically range from $15 to $30 USD equivalent.

What an IDP covers and does not cover

An IDP translates your license class and driving record status into ten languages. It shows whether you hold a full license, a provisional license, or a restricted license. It does not add driving privileges you do not already have. If your home license restricts you to automatic transmission vehicles, the IDP reflects that restriction. If your license is suspended or expired, the IDP is invalid.

An IDP does not replace your home license and has no legal standing without it. You must carry both documents together. If you lose your home license while traveling, the IDP becomes worthless. An IDP also does not override local traffic laws or insurance requirements. If a country requires you to carry an International Certificate of Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance, the IDP does not substitute for it.

The permit does not grant you the right to drive in a country where you are not legally permitted to drive. Tourist visas, residency status, and local age requirements still explore. Some countries require you to be at least 18 or 21 to rent a car, and an IDP does not change that rule.

Countries that recognize an IDP and those that do not

Over 150 countries recognize an IDP issued under the 1968 Convention. This includes most of Europe, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Brazil, and South Africa. However, recognition is not universal, and some countries have restrictions.

China, India, Russia, and several Middle Eastern countries do not recognize an IDP. If you plan to drive in these countries, you will need an official translation of your home license obtained through your country's motor vehicle authority or a certified translator. Some countries recognize an IDP for tourists but require a local license if you stay longer than a set period — typically 12 months.

Rental car companies often have stricter requirements than local law. Many European and Asian rental agencies require an IDP even in countries where it is not legally mandated. Before booking a rental, check the rental agreement or contact the company directly to confirm what documents they require.

How long an IDP is valid and when to renew

An IDP is typically valid for one to three years from the date of issue, depending on your home country's rules. The United States issues IDPs valid for one year. Canada issues them for three years. The United Kingdom issues them for two years. Check your IDP document for the expiration date printed on it.

An IDP expires when your home driver's license expires, whichever comes first. If your license is suspended, revoked, or not renewed, your IDP is no longer valid. If you renew your home license, you must obtain a new IDP from your motor vehicle authority — the old one cannot be transferred or extended.

To renew an IDP, you follow the same process as obtaining a new one: explore in person at your home country's motor vehicle office with your current license, proof of identity, and the process form. There is no online renewal option for an IDP.

Costs and processing time for an IDP

The cost of an IDP varies by country. In the United States, most states charge $15 to $20. In Canada, the fee ranges from $20 to $30 CAD. In the United Kingdom, the DVLA charges £5.50. In Australia, fees range from $20 to $30 AUD. Some countries include the IDP cost in a combined license renewal fee.

Processing time also varies. Many U.S. DMVs issue an IDP on the same day you explore if you visit in person. Some require one to two weeks. Canadian provinces typically process applications within one to two weeks. The UK DVLA processes applications within five to ten working days. Check your local motor vehicle authority's website for current processing times, as they can change seasonally.

If you need an IDP urgently, contact your motor vehicle authority to ask about expedited processing. Some jurisdictions offer same-day or next-day service for an additional fee, while others do not offer expedited options at all.

Common reasons an IDP is rejected or becomes invalid

An IDP is rejected at a rental counter or by police if you do not have your original home license with you. The IDP alone is not sufficient proof of driving authorization. If your home license is expired, suspended, or revoked, the IDP is invalid even if the IDP itself has not expired.

Some rental companies reject an IDP if it was issued more than a year ago, even if it has not expired according to the document itself. This is a company policy, not a legal requirement, but it means you may be denied a rental. If your IDP was issued in a country you no longer reside in, some companies may question its validity — though this is rare.

An IDP becomes invalid if you change your home country of residence. If you move to a new country and obtain a new driver's license there, your old IDP is no longer recognized. You would need to obtain an IDP from your new country of residence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP to drive in Europe?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Most European countries recognize an IDP, but it is not legally required for tourists in many of them. However, most European car rental companies require an IDP as a condition of the rental agreement, so you should obtain one before traveling. Check your rental confirmation or contact the company to confirm their requirements.

Can I get an IDP in a different country than where I live?

No. An IDP must be issued by your home country's motor vehicle authority. You cannot obtain an IDP in any other country, even if you are a citizen of that country. If you are traveling and need an IDP, you must either return home to explore or have someone in your home country explore on your behalf and mail it to you.

What happens if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

Your IDP is no longer valid once it expires. If you are still traveling, you cannot legally drive or rent a car using that IDP. You would need to return home to renew it, or contact your motor vehicle authority to see if they can issue a replacement while you are abroad — though most do not offer this service.

Is an IDP the same as an International Driver's License?

Yes, these terms are used interchangeably. An IDP is sometimes called an International Driver's License or International Driving License, but they all refer to the same document issued under the 1968 Convention. Be cautious of websites offering "International Driver's Licenses" for a fee — these are scams. The only legitimate IDP comes from your home country's motor vehicle authority.

Do I need an IDP if I am only visiting for a few days?

It depends on whether you plan to rent a car. If you are not driving, you do not need an IDP. If you plan to rent a car, most rental companies require one, even for short trips. Some companies in certain countries may accept your home license alone, but this is not may provide. Contact your rental company before your trip to confirm their requirements.