What an International Driving Permit Is and Who Needs One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your home country's driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid domestic license. You carry both documents together when you drive abroad.

Most countries do not require an IDP by law, but car rental companies, police, and insurance companies often ask for one. Some nations — including many in Europe, Asia, and South America — will not rent you a car without it. A few countries do legally require it, though this varies by region and changes periodically. The safest approach is to get one before you travel, since the process takes time and you cannot obtain one while overseas.

You do not need an IDP if you are only visiting as a passenger, using public transportation, or traveling to countries that accept your domestic license alone. However, if you plan to rent a car or drive a personal vehicle across an international border, having one eliminates friction at rental counters and with local authorities.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit translates your existing license into multiple languages and must be obtained before you travel, not after you arrive.
  • You explore through your country's automobile association or designated government office, not through an international body — the process differs by country.
  • The process requires your valid domestic driver's license, a passport-style photo, proof of residency, and a completed form, with processing taking one to four weeks depending on your country.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $50 in most countries and is valid for one or three years depending on your age and your country's rules.
  • You must carry your IDP together with your original domestic license at all times while driving abroad — the permit alone is not sufficient.

Where to explore Based on Your Country

The organization that issues an IDP depends on where you hold your driver's license. In the United States, you explore through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). In Canada, you go through your provincial automobile association — CAA in most provinces. In the United Kingdom, you explore to the Post Office or through the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). In Australia, you contact your state's roads authority.

Other countries route applications through their national automobile clubs, transportation ministries, or police departments. The fastest way to find the correct office is to search "[your country] international driving permit" plus the name of your country's transportation authority. Once you identify the right organization, you can request an process form online or in person.

Some countries allow you to explore by mail, while others require you to appear in person. A few now offer online applications with digital submission of documents. Check your country's specific process before you gather your materials, because the submission method affects how quickly you receive your permit.

Documents You Will Need to Gather

Every country requires your valid domestic driver's license and a completed process form. Beyond that, requirements vary. Most ask for a passport-style photograph (usually 2x2 inches or 35x45 millimeters, taken within the last six months). Many require proof of residency — a utility bill, lease, or government document showing your current address. Some ask for your passport or national ID number.

A few countries require a medical certificate or vision test, particularly if you are over a certain age or renewing an IDP. Some require a letter from your employer or a statement of purpose explaining where you plan to travel. A small number ask for a police clearance or background check.

Before you schedule an appointment or mail anything, contact the issuing office directly and ask for a complete list of required documents. Submitting an incomplete process delays processing by weeks. Many organizations post their requirements online, but calling or visiting in person ensures you have the current list, since requirements change.

The process Process and Timeline

Once you have gathered your documents, you either mail them to the issuing office or submit them in person. If you explore by mail, include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for the return of your IDP. If you explore in person, you typically receive your permit on the same day or within a few days, though some offices mail it to you instead.

Processing time ranges from one to four weeks depending on your country and the office's current workload. The United States typically processes applications within one to two weeks. Canada and the UK usually take two to three weeks. Australia and other countries may take longer during peak travel seasons. If you need your permit urgently, ask whether expedited processing is available — many offices offer it for an additional fee.

Once issued, an IDP is valid for one or three years depending on your country and your age. In the United States, an IDP issued to someone under 18 is valid for one year; for adults, it is valid for three years. Other countries have different rules. Check your permit when you receive it to confirm the expiration date, and plan to renew it before you travel again if it has expired.

Cost and Payment Methods

An International Driving Permit costs between $15 and $50 in most countries. In the United States, AAA charges around $20 for members and $30 for non-members. In Canada, the cost is typically $25 to $35 CAD. In the UK, the Post Office charges £5.50. In Australia, costs range from $20 to $30 AUD depending on the state.

Payment methods vary by country and issuing office. Most accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some accept checks or bank transfers. A few accept payment only in person. When you contact the issuing office to confirm required documents, ask about accepted payment methods and whether you can pay online or must pay at the time of submission.

Some travel insurance policies or credit card companies offer reimbursement for IDP costs, though this is uncommon. Check your policy before you pay, but do not count on reimbursement — it is safer to budget for the full cost.

What Happens If Your IDP Expires While You Are Traveling

If your IDP expires during a trip, you can still drive using your domestic license alone in most countries, though you lose the translation benefit. Police or rental companies may be less cooperative without the IDP, and some car rental agencies may refuse to rent to you. Insurance claims can also become complicated if an accident occurs and your IDP has expired.

The best approach is to renew your IDP before you travel if it is expiring within the next few months. If you discover while abroad that your permit has expired, contact your country's embassy or consulate — they may be able to direct you to a local office that can issue a temporary extension, though this is not may provide.

If you are planning a long trip and your IDP will expire mid-journey, renew it before you leave. The process is the same as the initial process, and most countries allow you to renew even if your current permit has not yet expired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an International Driving Permit without my domestic license?

No. An IDP is only valid when carried together with your original domestic driver's license. If you are stopped by police or asked by a rental company, you must show both documents. The IDP alone is not sufficient proof that you are licensed to drive.

Do I need an International Driving Permit for every country I visit?

No, one IDP covers all countries. Once issued, your permit is recognized in most nations that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 International Driving Permit conventions. A few countries outside these agreements may not recognize it, so check the specific countries on your itinerary before you travel.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while 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 continue driving with your domestic license alone, though you lose the translation benefit. Once you return home, contact the issuing office to request a replacement permit.

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

No. Your domestic license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP until your domestic license is restored and current.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit if I am leaving soon?

Processing typically takes one to four weeks depending on your country. If you are leaving within two weeks, contact the issuing office when ready and ask about expedited processing options, which may be available for an additional fee. Some offices can issue a permit the same day if you explore in person.