What an International Driving Permit Is and Who Issues It

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into ten languages and confirms you are a licensed driver in your home country. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. driver's license, and many countries will not accept it without both documents together.

The U.S. State Department does not issue IDPs. Instead, two organizations are authorized to issue them: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both issue the same document under the same international treaty. AAA is far more widely available — it has offices in all 50 states — while AATA has limited locations.

An IDP is useful if you plan to rent a car or drive in another country, because some rental companies and border officials require one. However, many countries accept a U.S. driver's license alone, and some do not recognize an IDP at all. Before you obtain one, check the specific rules for the country where you plan to drive.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP, and the IDP is valid only while your license is valid.
  • AAA and AATA are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs in the United States.
  • The process takes about 15 minutes in person at an AAA office, and you will receive the permit when ready.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 depending on which organization issues it, and it is valid for one or three years depending on your age.
  • You must bring your valid driver's license, a passport or other government ID, and a passport-sized photo to the issuing office.

Getting an IDP Through AAA

AAA is the fastest and most convenient route for most people. Visit an AAA office in person — you cannot obtain an IDP by mail or online. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or other government-issued photo ID, and one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches). The staff will complete the process on the spot, take your photo if you do not have one, and issue the permit when ready.

The cost is $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit if you are under 18. If you are 18 or older, the three-year permit costs $20. AAA membership is not required. The entire process takes about 15 minutes. You will receive a booklet-style permit that you carry with your driver's license.

To find the nearest AAA office, visit aaa.com or call 1-800-AAA-HELP. Many AAA offices are open on Saturdays, but hours vary by location, so confirm before you go.

Getting an IDP Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance issues the same IDP as AAA but has far fewer locations. AATA offices are concentrated in major cities and some regional areas. You can check whether AATA has an office near you on their website, but most people find AAA more convenient.

The process process and documents required are identical to AAA: bring your valid driver's license, government photo ID, and a passport photo. The cost is the same — $15 for one year or $20 for three years. Like AAA, you receive the permit when ready after process.

What Documents You Need Before You Go

Gather these three items before you visit an AAA or AATA office:

  1. A valid U.S. driver's license. The IDP is valid only as long as your license is valid, so if your license expires in six months, your IDP will too.
  2. A government-issued photo ID. A passport is the most common choice, but a state ID card or military ID also works. The ID must be current and show your photo.
  3. A passport-sized photo. The photo must be 2 by 2 inches, in color or black and white, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. You can bring one from home or have the AAA or AATA office take one for you (usually for a small additional fee).

Do not bring originals of important documents like your passport unless you are comfortable leaving them with the office temporarily. Most offices will photocopy what they need.

How Long the IDP Is Valid and When to Renew

An IDP is valid for either one or three years, depending on which term you choose when you explore. The expiration date is printed on the permit itself. The permit is valid only while your U.S. driver's license is also valid — if your license expires before the IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid.

You cannot renew an IDP by mail. When it expires, you must visit an AAA or AATA office again with the same documents (valid license, government ID, and passport photo) and pay the fee again. There is no discount for renewal.

If you are traveling soon and your license expires within a year, consider renewing your license first. This ensures your IDP will remain valid for the full term you purchase.

What to Do If You Lose Your IDP While Traveling

If your IDP is lost or stolen abroad, you can still drive using your U.S. driver's license alone in most countries. The IDP is a translation document, not a separate license, so losing it does not invalidate your driving privileges — it only removes the translation.

Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate if you need to report the loss for insurance or legal reasons. When you return to the United States, you can obtain a replacement IDP by visiting an AAA or AATA office with your valid driver's license, government ID, and a new passport photo. You will pay the full fee again.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Canada does not require an IDP — your U.S. driver's license is sufficient. Mexico does not officially require one either, but some car rental companies in Mexico request one, and having one can reduce friction at checkpoints. Check with your rental company before you travel.

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

No. Your driver's license must be valid and current. If your license is suspended, you cannot obtain an IDP until the suspension is lifted. If your license has expired, renew it first.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An international license does not exist in the United States. An IDP is a translation document only. Some countries issue their own "international licenses," but the U.S. does not. Your U.S. driver's license is your actual license.

What if the country I am visiting does not recognize an IDP?

Some countries do not recognize IDPs under the international treaty. Before you travel, contact the embassy of the country you plan to visit or check their driving regulations online. If an IDP is not recognized, your U.S. driver's license alone may still be accepted, or you may need to obtain an official translation from a notary or translator.

Can I get an IDP before my trip if I leave in two weeks?

Yes. Since AAA and AATA issue IDPs on the spot, you can visit an office and receive your permit the same day. Plan to visit during business hours — most offices are open Monday through Friday and many on Saturdays.