What an international driving permit actually is
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your US driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it does not replace your state license, and you cannot drive legally with only an IDP. You must carry both documents together when you drive abroad.
The IDP exists because some countries do not recognize a US driver's license alone, even though many do. Some rental car companies also require one. The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request, and it costs between $15 and $20 depending on where you get it.
You can obtain an IDP only through two organizations in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No other organization is authorized to issue them, and no online service can issue one for you.
Key Takeaways
- An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works alongside your US driver's license, not a replacement for it.
- Only the AAA and the American Automobile Touring Alliance can issue IDPs in the United States — no other organization or online service is authorized.
- You need a valid US driver's license, a passport-style photo, and a completed process form to get an IDP.
- The one-year permit costs around $15 to $20, and you can get one in person at most AAA locations or by mail through either organization.
- An IDP is useful for car rentals and driving in some countries, but many nations recognize a US license without one — check your destination's requirements before you travel.
Getting an IDP through the AAA
The AAA is the faster and more convenient option for most people. If you are a AAA member, you can walk into most AAA branch offices and get an IDP the same day. You do not need an appointment. Bring your valid US driver's license, one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), and a completed IDP process form. The AAA staff will fill out the form with you if you need help.
If you are not a AAA member, you can still get an IDP at an AAA office, but you will pay a small additional fee — usually $5 to $10 on top of the permit cost. You do not have to join AAA to purchase an IDP.
To find your nearest AAA office, visit the AAA website and use their branch locator. Call ahead to confirm they have IDP applications in stock and to ask about current wait times, especially during travel season.
Getting an IDP by mail through AATA
The American Automobile Touring Alliance handles IDP requests by mail. This route takes longer — typically two to three weeks — but works if you do not have an AAA office nearby or prefer not to visit in person.
read the IDP process from the AATA website or request one by mail. Complete the form, attach a passport-style photo, include a photocopy of your valid US driver's license, and mail everything with a check or money order to the AATA address listed on the form. Do not send cash through the mail.
The AATA will process your process and mail the permit back to you. Plan to submit your request at least three weeks before you travel, in case of delays.
What documents and photos you need
You must have a valid US driver's license — expired licenses do not work. The license must be from any state. You also need one passport-style photograph that is 2 by 2 inches. This is the same size photo used for passports and visas. You can get these photos at most pharmacies, post offices, and photo studios for $5 to $15.
The photo must show your face clearly, taken against a plain background, with your eyes open and looking directly at the camera. Sunglasses, hats, and heavy filters are not allowed. If you wear glasses normally, you may wear them in the photo.
You will also need to complete an IDP process form. The AAA provides this form at their offices, and the AATA provides it on their website. The form asks for your name, address, driver's license number, and signature. It takes about five minutes to complete.
How long an IDP lasts and when to renew
When you order an IDP, you choose between a one-year permit and a three-year permit. The one-year version costs slightly less — usually around $15 — while the three-year version costs around $20. Both are equally valid internationally; the difference is only how long you can use them.
An IDP expires on a specific date printed on the document itself. Once it expires, you cannot use it, even if your US driver's license is still valid. If you plan to drive internationally again after your IDP expires, you will need to get a new one through the same process.
There is no renewal process — you straightforward explore for a new IDP as if you were getting one for the first time. Many people get a three-year permit if they travel frequently, since it is only slightly more expensive and lasts longer.
Countries that require or recommend an IDP
Requirements vary by country and change over time. Some nations require an IDP by law; others do not require it but rental car companies will not rent to you without one; still others accept a US license alone. There is no single list that applies everywhere.
Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting and ask about driving requirements. You can also call your rental car company and ask whether they require an IDP for your destination. This is the only way to know for certain what you need.
In general, an IDP is more likely to be required or useful in Europe, Asia, and Latin America than in Canada or the Caribbean, but this is not a rule. Check your specific destination rather than assuming.
What to do if you lose your IDP while traveling
If your IDP is lost or stolen while you are abroad, you cannot get a replacement overseas. The AAA and AATA do not have international offices. You will need to drive without one until you return to the United States, or stop driving altogether.
To reduce this risk, keep your IDP in a separate bag or pocket from your driver's license. Some people photograph both documents and store the images in their phone or email as a backup, though a photo is not a legal substitute for the physical document.
If you are concerned about losing your permit during a long trip, consider getting a three-year permit before you leave so you have a replacement at home if needed. You can also contact the AAA or AATA before you travel to ask about their emergency procedures, though these are limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an IDP to drive in Canada or Mexico?
Canada does not require an IDP — a valid US driver's license is sufficient. Mexico does not legally require one either, but some rental car companies in Mexico will not rent to you without one. Check with your rental company before you book. If you are driving your own car, a US license alone is usually acceptable, but carry your vehicle registration and proof of insurance as well.
Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or expired?
No. Your US driver's license must be valid and not suspended. An IDP is a translation of your license, so if your license is not valid, neither is the IDP. If your license is suspended, you cannot legally drive anywhere, including internationally.
How much does an IDP cost?
A one-year IDP costs around $15, and a three-year IDP costs around $20. Prices vary slightly by location and whether you are a AAA member. If you get one by mail through the AATA, add postage costs. AAA members pay the base price; non-members pay an additional $5 to $10 at AAA offices.
Can I get an IDP online?
No legitimate online service issues IDPs. Only the AAA and AATA are authorized. Some websites claim to issue IDPs online, but these are not valid documents. If you see an online IDP service, it is a scam. Get your IDP in person at an AAA office or by mail through the AATA.
What if my name has changed since my driver's license was issued?
Your IDP must match your current driver's license exactly. If your name has changed, update your driver's license first through your state's DMV, then get your IDP. Bring your updated license to the AAA or include a photocopy with your AATA process.