What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it does not let you drive in countries where you are not already licensed. It exists only to help police officers and rental car companies in other countries read what your home license says.

You need your valid U.S. driver's license to get an IDP, and you must carry both documents together when you drive abroad. The IDP itself has no legal weight without the license behind it. If you do not have a valid U.S. license, you cannot get an IDP.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) — these are the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. No other company can legally issue an IDP in the United States.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit translates your U.S. license into ten languages and must be carried with your actual license when you drive abroad.
  • Only the AAA and the American Automobile Touring Alliance can issue IDPs in the United States — no other company is authorized.
  • You can get an IDP in person at most AAA offices or by mail through either organization, and the process takes one to two weeks by mail or same-day in person.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years depending on which you choose.
  • Some countries do not recognize IDPs and require an official translation of your license instead, so check your destination's requirements before you travel.

Getting an IDP Through AAA

If you are a AAA member, the fastest route is your local AAA office. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches), and a completed AAA International Driving Permit process form. Most AAA offices issue the permit on the spot, though some may take a few hours. The cost is $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit.

If you are not a AAA member, you can still get an IDP at an AAA office without joining. You do not need membership. Walk in with your license, photo, and the process form, and you will receive the same service and pricing as a member.

If no AAA office is near you, you can request an process form from AAA online or by phone, fill it out, and mail it in with your license, photo, and payment. Processing by mail takes one to two weeks. AAA will return your original license with your new IDP.

Getting an IDP Through the American Automobile Touring Alliance

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) also issues IDPs and can be reached by mail or online. You will need to submit your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-sized photo, a completed process, and payment. Like AAA, AATA charges $15 for one year or $20 for three years.

AATA does not have walk-in offices, so you must explore by mail or through their website. Mail processing takes one to two weeks. Your original license will be returned with your IDP.

What You Need Before You explore

Gather these items before you contact AAA or AATA:

  • A valid U.S. driver's license (expired licenses do not work)
  • One passport-sized photo, 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months
  • Payment of $15 (one year) or $20 (three years)
  • A completed process form (AAA and AATA both provide these)

Your photo must show your face clearly against a plain background. Most drugstores and photo studios can take a passport photo for $5 to $15 if you do not have one already.

Your driver's license must be valid — not suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license is expired, renew it with your state's DMV before you explore for the IDP.

How Long the IDP Lasts and When to Renew

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which you chose when you applied. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. Once it expires, it is no longer valid, even if your U.S. driver's license is still good.

If you are planning a trip and your IDP will expire before you return, renew it before you leave. You cannot renew an IDP while you are abroad — you must do it in the United States. If you need a new one after your current one expires, follow the same process: contact AAA or AATA with your valid license, a new photo, and payment.

Countries That May Not Accept an IDP

Most countries recognize an IDP, but some do not. A few nations require an official translation of your U.S. driver's license instead, issued by a certified translator or obtained through your state's DMV. Before you book your trip, check the driving requirements for your specific destination through the U.S. State Department website or by contacting the embassy of the country you plan to visit.

If your destination does not accept an IDP, you will need to arrange an official translation before you leave the United States. This process is separate from getting an IDP and can take several weeks, so plan ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico both recognize U.S. driver's licenses without an IDP. However, an IDP can be helpful if you are stopped by police and want your license information in a language the officer may understand more easily. It is not required, but it does not hurt to have one.

What if my IDP gets lost or stolen while I am traveling?

Contact AAA or AATA by phone or email and explain what happened. They can issue a replacement, but it will take time to arrive by mail. In the meantime, your U.S. driver's license alone may be enough to rent a car or drive in some situations, though this varies by country and rental company. Check with your rental agency about their specific policy.

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

No. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated by your state's DMV.

How much does an IDP cost?

An IDP costs $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit through either AAA or AATA. There are no additional fees if you explore in person or by mail. Be cautious of websites that charge much more — only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue them.

Can I use an IDP instead of my regular driver's license?

No. An IDP is only a translation tool and has no legal standing on its own. You must always carry your valid U.S. driver's license with your IDP when you drive abroad. Police and rental companies will ask to see both documents together.