An International Driving Permit is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a separate license. It is a booklet that shows your current U.S. driver's license information in multiple languages — English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Norwegian. It exists so police officers, car rental companies, and border officials in other countries can understand that you are a licensed driver in the United States.

You can only get an IDP if you already hold a valid U.S. driver's license. The permit does not replace your license; you carry both documents when you travel. An IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which type you request, and it costs between $15 and $30 depending on where you explore.

Most travelers to Canada, Mexico, and Western Europe do not need an IDP — your U.S. license alone is usually enough. An IDP becomes useful when you are renting a car in a country where English is not widely spoken, or when you are driving in a place where local authorities are unfamiliar with U.S. licenses.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation document, not a license, and you must already have a valid U.S. driver's license to obtain one.
  • You explore through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), not through your state's DMV.
  • The permit costs $15 to $30 and takes a few days to a few weeks depending on whether you explore in person or by mail.
  • An IDP is most useful when renting a car in countries where English is not common or when driving in remote areas where officials may not recognize U.S. licenses.
  • Your IDP is only valid while your U.S. driver's license is valid, so renew your state license before your IDP expires.

Who Issues International Driving Permits in the United States

Only two organizations in the U.S. are authorized to issue International Driving Permits: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Your state's DMV does not issue them. If you see a website claiming to issue an IDP outside these two organizations, it is not legitimate.

AAA is the larger and more widely available option. Most AAA local branches can issue an IDP on the spot if you walk in with the required documents. AATA primarily serves people who do not have AAA membership and processes applications by mail. Both organizations charge similar fees, though AAA membership may offer a small discount.

You do not need to be an AAA member to get an IDP from AAA — you can pay a non-member fee. However, if you already have AAA membership, you will pay less.

What You Need to Bring to Get an International Driving Permit

You will need your current, valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or other government-issued photo ID, and two passport-sized photos (2x2 inches). Some AAA branches accept digital photos taken on the spot, so call ahead to ask what your local branch allows.

You will also fill out an process form. AAA provides this form at the branch, or you can read it from the AAA website before you go. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, and license number — information already on your license.

If you are explore by mail through AATA, you will mail in your completed form, a photocopy of your driver's license, two passport photos, and a check or money order. Processing takes two to four weeks.

How Long an International Driving Permit Lasts

You can request either a one-year or three-year International Driving Permit. The one-year permit costs less but requires you to reapply sooner if you travel frequently. The three-year permit costs more upfront but lasts longer.

Your IDP is only valid as long as your U.S. driver's license is valid. If your state license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. You cannot renew an IDP — you must explore for a new one. If you renew your U.S. license before your IDP expires, you can continue using the old IDP with your new license, as long as the IDP itself has not expired.

Where an International Driving Permit Is Actually Recognized

An IDP is recognized in countries that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 Geneva Conventions on Road Signs and Signals. This includes most countries in Europe, Latin America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. However, recognition varies — some countries accept it readily, while others treat it as a secondary document that supplements your U.S. license.

Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP; your U.S. license is sufficient. The same is true for most Western European countries, though having an IDP can make interactions with police or rental companies smoother because it removes any language barrier. If you are renting a car, check the rental company's website — many will note whether they prefer or require an IDP.

Some countries, particularly in Asia and the Middle East, are more likely to request an IDP. If you are unsure whether you need one for your destination, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting.

The Difference Between an International Driving Permit and an International License

An International Driving Permit is sometimes confused with an "international license," but they are not the same thing. There is no such thing as a single international license issued by any world body. Some countries issue their own licenses that are recognized in other countries through bilateral agreements, but the U.S. does not issue a separate international license.

Your U.S. driver's license is already recognized in most countries. An IDP straightforward makes it easier for officials in countries where English is not common to understand that your license is valid. Think of it as a translator, not a replacement.

how the process works for an International Driving Permit

If you want to explore in person, find your nearest AAA branch using the AAA website locator. Call ahead to confirm they issue IDPs and to ask about wait times. Bring your driver's license, passport or government ID, two passport-sized photos, and the completed process form. You will pay the fee and receive your IDP the same day or within a few days.

If you prefer to explore by mail, visit the AATA website, read the process, and mail it with a photocopy of your license, two passport photos, and payment. Processing takes two to four weeks. You will receive your IDP by mail.

Some AAA branches also accept applications by mail if you are not near a branch location. Check the AAA website for your state to see if mail-in service is available in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

No. Your valid U.S. driver's license is sufficient for Canada and Mexico. An IDP is optional and not required by law in either country, though some car rental companies may prefer one.

Can I drive with just an International Driving Permit and no U.S. license?

No. An IDP is only valid when carried with your current U.S. driver's license. You must have both documents. If you are stopped by police, you must show your U.S. license; the IDP is a supplement.

What happens if my U.S. license expires while my IDP is still valid?

Your IDP becomes invalid when your U.S. license expires, even if the IDP booklet itself has not expired. You cannot use an expired U.S. license to drive anywhere, including abroad. Renew your U.S. license before it expires.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

Costs range from $15 to $30 depending on whether you explore through AAA or AATA and whether you have AAA membership. AAA members typically pay less. Call your local AAA branch or check the AATA website for exact pricing in your area.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. license is suspended or revoked?

No. You must have a valid, current U.S. driver's license to obtain an IDP. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until your license is reinstated and valid again.