What an international driver's permit is and who needs one

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. driver's license, and only in countries that recognize it. You carry both documents together when you drive abroad.

You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car or drive in most countries outside the United States. Some countries require it by law; others make it optional but strongly recommended because rental companies often ask for one. A few countries do not recognize it at all, so checking your destination's rules before you travel matters.

The IDP is issued in the United States by two organizations: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both issue the same document. AAA is more widely available because it has local offices in most states; AATA operates primarily by mail.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages and must be carried with your valid license when you drive abroad.
  • You can obtain an IDP through AAA (in person at a local office) or AATA (by mail), and the process takes one to two weeks through AAA or two to three weeks through AATA.
  • You will need your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, one passport-sized photo, and the completed process form.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 depending on which organization you use, and it is valid for one year from the date of issue.

Getting an IDP through AAA

If you are an AAA member, you can visit your local AAA office in person to request an IDP. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, your passport or passport card, one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches), and a completed AAA International Driving Permit process form. You can read the form from the AAA website or pick one up at the office.

The staff will review your documents, take your photo if you do not have one, and issue the permit on the spot or within a few days depending on the office. The cost is typically $15 to $20. If you are not an AAA member, you can still request an IDP at an AAA office, but membership is not required — you straightforward pay a small additional fee.

AAA offices are located in most states. You can find your nearest office and its hours on the AAA website by entering your zip code. Call ahead to confirm they have the process form in stock and to ask about wait times, especially during busy travel seasons.

Getting an IDP through AATA by mail

The American Automobile Touring Alliance issues IDPs by mail. You will need to read the AATA International Driving Permit process from their website, fill it out completely, and mail it along with your valid U.S. driver's license, your passport or passport card, one passport-sized photo, and a check or money order for the fee (typically $15 to $20).

Mail your completed packet to the address listed on the AATA process form. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date AATA receives your materials. They will return your original driver's license and passport along with your new IDP, so use a mailing method that allows you to track the package.

The AATA route works well if you do not have an AAA office nearby or prefer not to visit in person. However, it takes longer than the in-person AAA option, so plan ahead if your travel date is soon.

Documents you need to bring or send

Regardless of which organization you use, you will need four things:

  • A valid U.S. driver's license (not expired)
  • A U.S. passport or passport card (not expired)
  • One passport-sized photograph, 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months
  • A completed process form (AAA or AATA, depending on which organization you choose)

Your driver's license and passport must both be current — an expired license or passport will delay or prevent your IDP from being issued. If your passport is expired, you will need to renew it first through the U.S. State Department before you can request an IDP.

Passport-sized photos are available at most pharmacies, post offices, and photo studios. They cost $5 to $15 depending on where you go. Some AAA offices can take the photo for you on the spot if you do not have one.

How long an IDP is valid and when to renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. After one year, it expires and is no longer recognized by rental companies or authorities abroad. If you plan to drive internationally again after that year, you will need to request a new one.

You can request a renewal at any time before your current IDP expires, using the same process and documents as the first request. Some travelers request a new IDP every year if they travel frequently, while others request one only when they have a specific trip planned.

Your IDP is tied to your U.S. driver's license. If your license expires or is suspended, your IDP becomes invalid even if it has not reached its one-year expiration date. If you renew your driver's license before your IDP expires, you do not automatically get a new IDP — you must request one separately if you need it.

What to do if you need an IDP quickly

If your travel date is within the next week or two, visiting an AAA office in person is your fastest option. Many AAA offices can issue an IDP the same day or within one to two business days. Call your local office first to confirm they can meet your timeline and to ask whether you should make an appointment.

If you are traveling internationally very soon and do not have time for either AAA or AATA, some countries will accept your U.S. driver's license alone, though this is not may provide. Check with your rental car company and your destination country's driving rules before you travel. Many rental companies will rent to you with only a U.S. license, but they may charge a higher rate or require additional insurance.

Using your IDP when you travel

When you rent a car or drive abroad, carry both your U.S. driver's license and your IDP together. The IDP is not a replacement for your license — it is a companion document that translates your license information into ten languages so that police, rental agents, and other authorities can understand it.

Some rental companies will ask to see your IDP when you pick up the car. Others may not ask but will accept it if you offer it. Having it with you removes any question about your right to drive and can speed up the rental process. If you are stopped by police while driving, present both documents together.

Your IDP does not change the driving laws of the country you are visiting. You must still follow local speed limits, traffic signs, and other rules. The IDP straightforward makes it clear to local authorities that you hold a valid U.S. driver's license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive internationally with just my U.S. driver's license?

Some countries and rental companies will accept a U.S. license alone, but many require or strongly recommend an IDP. Requirements vary by country and by rental company, so check with your destination and your rental agency before you travel. Having an IDP removes uncertainty and is inexpensive insurance.

What if my passport is expired?

You cannot request an IDP with an expired passport. You will need to renew your passport through the U.S. State Department first. Passport renewal takes four to six weeks for a standard process, so plan ahead if your passport is expiring soon.

Do I need an IDP if I am only visiting one country?

It depends on that country's rules and your rental company's policy. Some countries require an IDP by law; others make it optional. Your rental company may also have its own requirement. Contact both your destination country's embassy and your rental company to confirm before you book.

Can someone else pick up my IDP from AAA for me?

AAA policies vary by location. Some offices will release an IDP to someone other than the applicant if they have written authorization; others require the applicant to be present. Call your local AAA office to ask about their specific policy before you arrange for someone else to pick it up.

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

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They can issue a replacement document or confirm your license status to local authorities. Your U.S. driver's license alone may be enough to continue driving in some situations, but having embassy documentation will strengthen your position if you are stopped.