An International Driver's License Is Not a Real License — It's a Translation Document

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a driver's license. It is a booklet that translates your existing U.S. driver's license into ten languages and certifies that you hold a valid license in your home country. Most countries recognize it as proof that you are a licensed driver, but it does not replace your state license and cannot be used alone to drive anywhere.

You must carry both your U.S. driver's license and your IDP together when driving abroad. The IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which type you request, and it costs between $15 and $30. You cannot get an IDP without already holding a valid driver's license from your state.

The IDP is issued by two organizations in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both are authorized by the U.S. State Department. You cannot get an IDP from your state DMV — you must explore through one of these two organizations.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your U.S. license into ten languages and is recognized by most countries as proof you are a licensed driver.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license before you can request an IDP; the IDP cannot be used without your state license.
  • Only the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) issue IDPs in the United States.
  • An IDP is valid for either one or three years and costs $15 to $30 depending on the organization and validity period you choose.
  • You can request an IDP in person at an AAA office, by mail through either organization, or online through AAA's website.

Who Issues International Driving Permits and Where to Request One

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the largest issuer of IDPs in the United States. If you are a AAA member, you can request an IDP at any AAA office in person, by mail, or through the AAA website. AAA charges $20 for a one-year IDP or $30 for a three-year IDP. Non-members can also request through AAA but may pay a small additional fee depending on your local AAA club.

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second authorized issuer. AATA does not have physical offices; you must request an IDP by mail or through their website. AATA charges $15 for a one-year IDP or $20 for a three-year IDP. AATA does not require membership and does not charge different rates for members and non-members.

Both organizations issue the same IDP document. The choice between them depends on whether you have AAA membership, whether you prefer in-person service, and which pricing works for your budget. Processing time is typically five to ten business days by mail and same-day or next-day if you request in person at a AAA office.

Documents You Need to Request an IDP

To request an IDP from either AAA or AATA, you will need to provide the following:

  • A valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license (the one you are translating).
  • A completed process form (provided by AAA or AATA).
  • One passport-sized photograph, 2 inches by 2 inches, taken within the last six months. The photo must show your face clearly and match the appearance on your driver's license.
  • Payment for the IDP fee ($15 to $30 depending on the organization and validity period).
  • Proof of your current address if it differs from the address on your driver's license (a utility bill or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

If you are requesting by mail, you will mail these documents to the organization's address. If you are requesting in person at a AAA office, you can bring the documents directly and often receive your IDP the same day. Check the AAA or AATA website for the mailing address or to find a local AAA office near you.

How Long an IDP Is Valid and When You Need to Renew

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which validity period you request. You choose the length when you submit your process. A one-year IDP costs less but requires renewal sooner; a three-year IDP costs more but lasts longer.

Your IDP is only valid while your U.S. driver's license is also valid. If your driver's license expires before your IDP expires, your IDP becomes invalid on the same date your license expires. You cannot renew an IDP; you must request a new one. To request a new IDP, you follow the same process as the first time: provide your current valid license, a new process form, a new photograph, and the fee.

If you are traveling and your IDP is about to expire, you can request a new one before you leave the United States. There is no waiting period between IDPs, and you can hold multiple valid IDPs at once if needed.

What Countries Accept an International Driving Permit

Most countries recognize the IDP as proof that you hold a valid driver's license in your home country. However, not all countries require or accept it. Some countries have their own rules about which documents foreign drivers must carry.

Before you travel, check the driving requirements for the specific country or countries you plan to visit. The U.S. State Department website and the embassy or consulate of your destination country can tell you whether an IDP is required, recommended, or unnecessary. Some countries accept only your U.S. license with a certified English translation; others require the IDP; and some accept either.

A few countries do not recognize the IDP at all. In those cases, you may need to obtain an International Driving Permit from your country of residence instead, or you may need to get a local driving permit before you can legally drive. Rental car companies may also have their own requirements that differ from the country's legal requirements, so check with your rental company as well.

Common Mistakes When Requesting an IDP

The most common mistake is requesting an IDP without first checking whether your destination country actually requires or accepts one. Some travelers spend money on an IDP only to find that their destination country does not recognize it or does not require it. Before you request an IDP, confirm with your destination country's embassy or consulate that an IDP will be accepted.

A second common mistake is assuming that an IDP can be used without your U.S. driver's license. An IDP is only valid when carried together with your original U.S. license. If you are stopped by police or asked to show your license, you must produce both documents. Carrying only the IDP is not sufficient.

A third mistake is requesting an IDP too close to your travel date. If you request by mail, allow at least two weeks for processing and delivery. If you need an IDP quickly, request in person at a AAA office, which can often issue it the same day. Do not wait until the week before your trip to request an IDP by mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in another country with just my U.S. driver's license and no IDP?

It depends on the country. Many countries accept a U.S. driver's license alone, especially if you also carry an English translation. Some countries require an IDP. Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country to confirm what documents you need. Rental car companies may have stricter requirements than the country itself.

What if my driver's license is suspended or revoked?

You cannot request an IDP if your driver's license is suspended, revoked, or expired. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended or revoked, you must resolve that issue with your state DMV before you can request an IDP.

Can I request an IDP if I have a learner's permit or a commercial driver's license?

You can request an IDP if you hold a valid commercial driver's license (CDL). You cannot request an IDP with only a learner's permit; your license must be a full, unrestricted driver's license. If you hold a CDL, the IDP will translate that as well.

How do I know if AAA or AATA is better for me?

If you are a AAA member and have a local AAA office nearby, AAA is usually faster and more convenient because you can request in person and receive your IDP the same day. If you are not a AAA member or prefer to avoid membership, AATA is simpler and costs slightly less. Both issue the same document and are equally recognized.

What happens if I lose my IDP while traveling?

If you lose your IDP abroad, you still have your U.S. driver's license, which is your primary document. Many countries will accept your U.S. license alone if you can explain that you lost the translation. Contact your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance. When you return to the United States, you can request a new IDP by following the standard process.