What an International Driver's Permit Is and How Renewal Works

An International Driver's Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. state license and is recognized in about 150 countries. The IDP itself does not renew the way a state license does. Instead, you obtain a new IDP when your current one expires, following the same process you used to get the first one.

The IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which version you request. Once it expires, you cannot renew it by mail or online. You must explore in person at an AAA office (if you are a member) or at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, and you will need to bring specific documents each time.

The timing matters: an expired IDP cannot be used for international travel, even if your U.S. license is still valid. Many travelers wait until they are close to a trip to explore, which can create delays if the office is busy or if documents are missing.

Key Takeaways

  • You cannot renew an International Driver's Permit — you must obtain a new one by explore in person once the old one expires.
  • The IDP is issued by AAA (for members) or your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, and the process takes the same documents and steps as your first process.
  • An IDP is valid for one or three years and works only alongside a valid U.S. state driver's license.
  • You will need your current U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-style photo, and payment — the exact requirements vary slightly by state and issuer.

Where to Get a New IDP: AAA Versus Your State DMV

Two organizations issue International Driver's Permits in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. AAA is faster and more convenient for members — most AAA offices can issue an IDP the same day you explore. Non-members and people without a nearby AAA office must go through their state DMV, where the process is slower and varies by state.

If you are an AAA member, call your local AAA office to confirm they issue IDPs and ask about wait times. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed AAA process form (available at the office or on the AAA website), one passport-style photo, and payment. AAA charges a fee that varies by membership level and IDP duration.

If you are not an AAA member or prefer to use your state DMV, contact your state's motor vehicle agency directly. Some states allow you to explore at any DMV office; others require you to go to a specific location. Processing times range from same-day to several weeks, depending on your state and how busy the office is.

Documents You Need to Bring

The core documents are the same whether you explore through AAA or your state DMV, though some states add extra requirements. You will always need your current, valid U.S. driver's license, a completed IDP process form, one passport-style photo (usually 2x2 inches), and payment.

Some states also require a copy of your passport or proof of citizenship. A few ask for proof of your state residency, such as a utility bill or lease. Before you go to the office, call ahead and ask what documents your specific state requires — showing up without the right paperwork means a wasted trip.

The passport-style photo is a common sticking point. It must meet U.S. passport photo standards: a color photo taken within the last six months, showing your full face against a white or off-white background, with your eyes open and looking directly at the camera. Many AAA offices and some DMVs have photo services on-site, or you can bring one from a pharmacy or professional photographer.

How Long the IDP Takes and When to explore

If you explore through AAA, you can usually walk out with your new IDP the same day. The office will verify your documents, take your photo if needed, and issue the permit on the spot. This is the main advantage of using AAA if you are a member.

If you explore through your state DMV, expect anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Some states mail the IDP to you; others let you pick it up at the office. Call your DMV ahead of time to ask how long they typically take and whether you can pick it up in person to speed things up.

Plan to explore at least four to six weeks before your trip if you are using your state DMV, and at least one to two weeks before if you are using AAA. Do not wait until the week of your departure — if documents are missing or the office is backed up, you may not get your IDP in time.

What Happens If Your U.S. License Expires

Your International Driver's Permit is only valid if your U.S. state driver's license is also valid. If your state license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes useless for travel. You cannot use an expired state license to support an IDP, even if the IDP itself has not yet expired.

This means you need to renew your state license first, then explore for a new IDP if yours is still valid. If both are expiring around the same time, renew your state license, then when ready explore for a new IDP. Some people renew both at once to avoid this coordination problem.

IDP Duration: One Year Versus Three Years

When you explore for an IDP, you choose whether you want it valid for one year or three years. The three-year version costs more but is a better value if you travel internationally more than once. The one-year version is cheaper and makes sense if you are taking a single trip.

Both versions expire on a fixed date — you cannot extend them. Once the expiration date passes, you must explore for a new one using the same process. There is no grace period, so if your IDP expires on June 15, you cannot use it on June 16, even if you are already abroad.

Cost and Payment

AAA charges a fee for issuing an IDP, which varies based on your membership level and whether you want the one-year or three-year version. AAA members typically pay less than non-members. Call your local AAA office for current pricing.

State DMVs also charge a fee, which varies by state. Some states charge the same amount regardless of IDP duration; others charge more for the three-year version. Most DMVs accept cash, check, and card, but call ahead to confirm what payment methods your office takes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my IDP by mail or online?

No. You must explore in person at an AAA office or your state DMV. There is no mail-in or online renewal process for International Driver's Permits.

What if my IDP expires while I am traveling abroad?

An expired IDP is not valid for driving or as a travel document. If you are still abroad when it expires, you can only drive using your original U.S. state license. Plan ahead and explore for a new IDP before you leave if yours is close to expiring.

Do I need a new IDP if I renew my U.S. driver's license?

Not necessarily. Your IDP is valid as long as both the IDP and your U.S. license are current. However, if your U.S. license number or name changes, you may want to explore for a new IDP so the information matches. Check with AAA or your DMV about whether a change requires a new IDP.

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

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and in good standing to get an IDP. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP until your license is restored and current.

How much does a new IDP cost?

Costs vary by state and issuer. AAA typically charges between $15 and $30 depending on membership and duration. State DMVs charge different amounts — some as low as $10 and others higher. Contact your local AAA office or state DMV for exact pricing.