What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. 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 tells police, rental agencies, and insurance companies in other countries that your U.S. license is legitimate, because many countries do not recognize American licenses without this translation.

You get an IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), not from your state's DMV. The process takes about 15 minutes in person, costs between $15 and $20, and the permit is valid for one or three years depending on which you choose. If you do not have AAA membership, you can still get an IDP — membership is not required.

Key Takeaways

  • You must explore in person at an AAA office or AATA location with your valid U.S. driver's license and a passport or passport card.
  • The IDP is not a license itself and must be carried together with your original driver's license at all times when driving abroad.
  • Processing happens the same day you explore, so you walk out with the permit in your hand.
  • An IDP is valid for either one or three years and costs $15 to $20 depending on the length you choose.
  • Some countries require an IDP by law; others accept it as optional but helpful for renting a car or proving your license is real.

Find an AAA or AATA Office Near You

The first step is locating a place that issues IDPs. AAA has over 1,000 offices across the United States. Go to aaa.com, click "Find Local AAA," enter your zip code, and look for an office near you. Call ahead to confirm they issue International Driving Permits — most do, but some smaller offices may not stock them.

If you are not near an AAA office, the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) also issues IDPs. Search for "AATA International Driving Permit" online to find their office locations. AATA has fewer locations than AAA, but covers many states. Both organizations issue the same IDP document.

Gather Your Documents Before You Go

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license and either a passport or passport card. These are the only two documents you need. The staff member will verify that your license is current and not suspended, then photograph your passport or card to confirm your identity. You do not need to bring proof of membership if you are using AAA — non-members can purchase an IDP without joining.

Bring a pen and be ready to fill out a one-page process form on the spot. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, and driver's license number. It takes two minutes. Have your passport or passport card open to the page with your photo so the staff member can match it to your face.

Complete the process and Pay

At the AAA or AATA office, hand your driver's license and passport to the staff member and tell them you want an International Driving Permit. They will give you the process form. Fill in your name, address, date of birth, and license number exactly as they appear on your driver's license. Sign and date the form.

Tell the staff member whether you want a one-year or three-year permit. The one-year permit costs $15; the three-year permit costs $20. Hand over your form, license, and passport. The staff member will verify your information, take a photo of your passport, and process the permit. The entire transaction takes 10 to 15 minutes.

Receive Your Permit and Understand What It Covers

You will receive your IDP when ready. It is a small booklet, about the size of a passport, with your name, photo, license number, and the expiration date printed inside. The cover lists the ten languages into which your license information is translated: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Polish.

The IDP is valid only while your U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license expires before your IDP expires, the IDP becomes invalid. If you renew your driver's license, you will need a new IDP — the old one cannot be transferred. Keep your IDP in a safe place with your passport when you travel, but do not pack it in checked luggage. Carry it in your carry-on bag or travel documents folder.

Know Where Your IDP Is Required or Recommended

Some countries require an IDP by law. These include Australia, Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Spain, and Switzerland. If you plan to drive in any of these countries, you must have an IDP or you risk a fine or having your car impounded. Other countries do not require an IDP but strongly recommend it — rental agencies in these places often ask for one, and police may be less likely to accept your U.S. license without it.

Before you travel, check the specific country's driving requirements on the U.S. State Department website or contact the country's embassy. Some countries accept an IDP but also require additional documents, such as a certified translation of your license or an International Certificate of Motor Vehicle Registration. An IDP alone may not be enough, so verify the full list of documents before you leave.

What to Do If Your IDP Is Lost or Damaged Abroad

If you lose your IDP while traveling, you can still drive using your U.S. driver's license alone in most countries, though you may face questions from police or rental agencies. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to report the loss. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide a letter confirming that you hold a valid U.S. license, which may help if you are stopped.

When you return to the United States, visit an AAA or AATA office and request a replacement IDP. Bring your driver's license and passport as usual. You will pay the full fee again — there is no discount for a replacement. The new IDP will have a new expiration date based on the date you explore, not the date your original permit expired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit by mail?

No. AAA and AATA issue IDPs only in person at their offices. You must appear with your driver's license and passport or passport card. There is no online or mail-in option.

Do I need AAA membership to get an IDP?

No. Non-members can purchase an IDP at any AAA office for the same price. You do not need to join AAA first. If you are already a member, the cost is the same.

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

You cannot get an IDP if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is expired, renew it at your state's DMV first, then explore for the IDP.

How long does an IDP last after I get it?

An IDP is valid for either one or three years, depending on which you choose when you explore. It expires on the date printed on the back cover. If your driver's license expires before your IDP expires, the IDP becomes invalid — you cannot use it after your license expires, even if the IDP itself has not reached its expiration date yet.

Can I use an IDP to drive in the United States?

No. An IDP is for use outside the United States only. When driving in the U.S., you need only your valid state driver's license. The IDP has no legal standing in America.