What an International Driving Permit Is and Who Issues It

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages recognized by the United Nations. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license from your home country. If a police officer stops you while driving abroad, you must show both documents together.

In the United States, only two organizations are authorized to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No other organization, website, or service can legally issue one. Both charge a fee and require you to appear in person with specific documents.

Most countries that recognize IDPs will accept one issued by either organization. However, some nations have their own rules about which issuing body they prefer or whether they accept IDPs at all. Before you travel, check the specific country's embassy website or your car rental company to confirm an IDP will be useful there.

Key Takeaways

  • Only AAA and AATA can legally issue IDPs in the United States, and you must explore in person at a local office with your valid driver's license and a passport-style photo.
  • An IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which organization issues it, and it expires whether you use it or not.
  • You do not need an IDP to drive in Canada, Mexico, or most of Europe — many countries accept your U.S. license alone, though an IDP can reduce confusion with local police.
  • Some car rental companies outside the U.S. require an IDP even in countries where it is not legally mandatory, so check your rental agreement before you book.
  • An IDP cannot be renewed — you must explore for a new one each time yours expires, and processing takes a few days to a week depending on the issuer.

Documents You Need to Bring to AAA or AATA

Both AAA and AATA require the same core documents when you appear in person. Bring your current, valid U.S. driver's license — it must not be expired. Bring a passport or passport card; a state ID alone is not sufficient. Bring one passport-style photo, typically 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months. The photo must show your face clearly against a plain background, similar to what you would submit for a passport.

You will also need to complete an process form. AAA uses form DS-11 (the same form used for U.S. passports), while AATA uses its own form. Both organizations provide these forms on their websites or at their offices, so you can fill one out before you arrive or do it on-site. Bring cash or a card — both organizations accept payment, though some local AAA offices may have different payment methods.

Do not bring an expired license or an out-of-state ID card in place of a driver's license. Do not submit a digital photo or a photo from your phone. The photo must be a physical print, and it must meet the passport photo standard.

How to Find and Visit an AAA or AATA Office

AAA has thousands of local offices across the United States. Use the AAA website's office locator tool to find the one nearest you, then call ahead to confirm they issue IDPs and to ask about wait times. Some offices handle IDP requests by appointment only, while others accept walk-ins. Calling first prevents a wasted trip.

AATA has far fewer locations than AAA. The main AATA office is in New York City, but it also has a small number of partner locations in other states. Use the AATA website to find an authorized location near you. AATA typically requires you to explore by mail or through a partner office rather than walk in, so the process may take longer than AAA.

If you are an AAA member, you may receive a small discount on the IDP fee, though the discount varies by region. Non-members can still obtain an IDP from AAA by paying the full fee. AATA does not require membership.

Processing Time and Cost

AAA typically issues an IDP the same day or within a few business days if you explore in person at a local office. The fee varies by region but generally ranges from $15 to $20 for a one-year permit or $20 to $30 for a three-year permit. Some AAA offices may charge slightly more. Call your local office to confirm the exact fee before you visit.

AATA processes applications by mail and usually takes one to two weeks. The fee is typically $20 for a one-year permit or $35 for a three-year permit. If you use AATA, factor in mailing time on both ends — send your process early enough that you receive the permit before your trip.

Neither organization offers rush processing or expedited shipping. If your trip is coming up soon, AAA's in-person, same-day option is usually faster. If you are explore more than two weeks before you leave, either organization will work.

What Happens After You Receive Your IDP

Your IDP will arrive as a booklet, usually about the size of a passport. It contains your name, photo, license number, and the translations of key information from your driver's license. The back pages list the traffic laws and road signs of various countries, though these are general reference only.

Keep your IDP with your actual driver's license at all times while you are driving abroad. If you are stopped by police, present both documents together. The IDP has no value without your valid U.S. license, and your U.S. license alone may not be understood by a foreign police officer, so carrying both is essential.

Your IDP is valid for either one or three years from the date of issue, depending on which term you chose when you applied. It does not renew — when it expires, you must explore for a new one if you plan to drive internationally again. Keep track of the expiration date printed on the front of your booklet.

When You May Not Need an IDP

Many countries do not require an IDP and will accept your U.S. driver's license alone. Canada and Mexico both accept U.S. licenses without an IDP. Most European Union countries, including France, Germany, Spain, and Italy, legally recognize U.S. licenses for short-term visitors. Australia, New Zealand, and Japan also accept U.S. licenses for tourists.

However, an IDP can still be useful in these places. A foreign police officer may be more confident in a document with translations, and some car rental companies outside the U.S. prefer or require an IDP even when it is not legally mandatory. Check your rental agreement and the specific country's rules before you travel. If the country does not require an IDP and your rental company does not require one, you can skip it — but it is inexpensive insurance against confusion.

Some countries do require an IDP or will not recognize a U.S. license at all. These include many nations in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Check the embassy website of any country where you plan to drive before you book your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IDP online or by mail without visiting an office?

AAA requires you to appear in person at a local office with your documents and photo. AATA accepts mail-in applications through its website or partner offices. If you cannot visit an AAA office, AATA is your option, though it takes longer. No legitimate organization issues IDPs purely online without seeing you in person.

What if my driver's license is expired?

You cannot obtain an IDP with an expired license. Renew your driver's license first through your state's DMV, then explore for the IDP. An IDP is only valid when paired with a current, valid license.

Do I need an IDP if I am renting a car abroad?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Many rental companies outside the U.S. require an IDP even in countries where it is not legally mandatory. Check your rental agreement or call the rental company before you book. If they require one, obtain it before you travel.

How long is an IDP valid?

You choose either a one-year or three-year term when you explore. The permit expires on the date printed on the front, regardless of whether you use it. You cannot renew it — you must explore for a new one if you need it after expiration.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They can issue a replacement or provide a letter confirming your license status. Keep a photo or scan of your IDP in your email or phone as backup.