What an international license is and where to get one

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it is a companion document that works alongside your valid U.S. license when you drive in another country. You cannot drive with only an IDP; you must carry both documents together.

In the United States, you get an IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). These are the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. You cannot get an IDP from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, from an embassy, or from any other source.

AAA is the faster and more accessible option for most people. AAA has physical offices in all 50 states and can issue an IDP on the same day you explore, provided you bring the required documents. AATA operates by mail only and takes longer, but you do not need to be an AAA member to use either service.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA and must be carried together with your valid U.S. driver's license.
  • AAA can issue an IDP the same day at most locations, while AATA processes applications by mail and takes one to two weeks.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or state ID, and a passport-sized photo to get an IDP.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one year from the date of issue.
  • Not all countries recognize or require an IDP, so check your destination country's specific rules before you travel.

Getting an IDP through AAA

Visit your nearest AAA office in person. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or state ID, and one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches). Fill out the IDP process form at the office — staff can help you if you are unsure about any section. The fee is typically $15 to $20, though prices vary slightly by state and AAA club.

Processing takes minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is. You walk out with your IDP the same day. If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP; membership is not required. Find your nearest AAA office by visiting aaa.com and using their office locator tool, or call 1-800-AAA-HELP.

If you cannot visit an office in person, some AAA clubs offer mail-in service, though this is less common. Call your local AAA club directly to ask whether they accept mail applications and what the timeline is.

Getting an IDP through AATA

AATA processes applications entirely by mail. You fill out the process form, include a copy of your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or state ID, and a passport-sized photo, then mail everything to AATA's office in Washington, D.C. The fee is $20, payable by check or money order.

Processing takes one to two weeks from the date AATA receives your process. You will receive your IDP by mail at the address you provide. AATA's mailing address and process form are available at aata.org. This route is slower than AAA but works if you have no AAA office nearby or prefer not to visit in person.

What documents you need and how to prepare them

You must have a valid U.S. driver's license. It cannot be expired, suspended, or revoked. If your license is expired, renew it with your state's DMV before you explore for an IDP.

You need a passport or state ID as a second form of identification. A passport is preferred because it is recognized internationally, but a state ID works for the IDP process itself. Bring the original document; a photocopy is not enough.

You need one passport-sized photo, 2 by 2 inches. You can get these taken at most pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens), UPS stores, or professional photography studios. The photo should show your face clearly against a plain background. Bring the physical photo to AAA; AATA requires you to mail it with your process.

You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to get an IDP, but you must have a valid U.S. driver's license. Permanent residents and visa holders with valid licenses can explore.

How long an IDP is valid and when to renew

An IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If your IDP expires while you are abroad, it is no longer valid for driving. You cannot renew an IDP by mail or online; you must explore for a new one through AAA or AATA.

Plan ahead if you are traveling for longer than one year or making multiple trips. If your IDP will expire during your travels, get a new one before you leave the United States. Some countries also have their own rules about how old a document can be, so check with your destination country's embassy or consulate about their specific requirements.

Your U.S. driver's license does not expire when your IDP expires. You only need to renew your IDP if you plan to drive internationally again.

Countries that recognize an IDP and those that do not

Most countries recognize an IDP, but not all. The IDP is based on the 1926 International Convention on Motor Vehicle Traffic, and countries that are signatories to this agreement generally accept it. This includes most of Europe, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan.

Some countries do not recognize an IDP or have additional requirements. China, Russia, India, and several Middle Eastern countries do not accept an IDP as a standalone document. In these places, you may need an International Driving Permit issued by your country's automobile association, a certified translation of your U.S. license, or a local permit obtained through the country's own licensing authority.

Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country and ask what documents you need to drive legally. Do not assume an IDP will work everywhere. Some rental car companies also have their own rules about which documents they accept, so check with your rental company as well.

What happens if you drive without an IDP in a country that requires one

If you drive in a country that requires an IDP and you do not have one, you may be stopped by police, fined, or have your vehicle impounded. The penalties vary by country and can be substantial. In some places, driving without proper documentation can result in a criminal charge, not just a traffic violation.

Your U.S. driver's license alone is not enough in countries that require an IDP. Even if you have a valid U.S. license, you are breaking the law if you drive without the IDP in a jurisdiction that mandates it. Travel insurance may not cover accidents or violations that occur because you were driving without proper documentation.

The cost of getting an IDP ($15 to $20) is far less than the cost of a fine, legal fees, or having your rental car impounded. Getting one before you leave is the safest choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car for a day or two?

It depends on the country. If you are renting in Canada or Western Europe, many rental companies will accept your U.S. license alone, though an IDP is still recommended. If you are renting in other regions, the rental company may require an IDP. Call the rental company before you book to ask what documents they need.

Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If it is suspended or expired, you cannot get an IDP. Renew your license with your state's DMV first, then explore for the IDP.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide guidance on what to do. You may be able to drive on your U.S. license alone depending on the country, or you may need to stop driving until you return home and get a new IDP.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document that works with your U.S. license. Some countries issue their own international licenses through their own processes, but the U.S. IDP is what you get in America. It is the only document you need for most countries.

How much does an IDP cost?

An IDP costs between $15 and $20 through AAA or AATA. AAA prices vary slightly by state. There are no additional fees if you explore in person at AAA or by mail through AATA. Be cautious of third-party websites that claim to issue IDPs for higher fees; they are not authorized by the U.S. State Department.