What a translated driver's license is and when you need one
A translated driver's license is an official or certified copy of your license in another language. It is not a new license — your original U.S. driver's license remains your legal driving credential in the United States. A translation exists so you can rent a car, prove your identity, or satisfy legal requirements in countries where English is not the primary language.
You need a translation if you plan to drive in a foreign country and that country requires proof of a valid U.S. license in English alongside a translation, or if you are renting a vehicle from an international car rental company that requests one. Some countries accept only an International Driving Permit (IDP) instead, which is a separate document that works alongside your U.S. license. Other countries accept your U.S. license alone. The rules depend entirely on the country you are visiting.
A translation is different from a Real ID or a passport. It does not change your legal status, does not extend your license validity, and does not replace your original license for any purpose inside the United States.
Key Takeaways
- A translated driver's license is a certified copy of your U.S. license in another language, used only when driving or renting a car abroad.
- Many countries accept an International Driving Permit (IDP) instead of a translation, so check your destination's requirements before paying for either.
- You can obtain a translation through the American Automobile Association (AAA), a professional translation service, or your state's DMV, depending on where you live.
- A translation does not replace your original U.S. license and has no effect on your driving record, insurance, or legal status in the United States.
- Costs and processing times vary by method: AAA typically charges $20 to $30 and processes same-day or within days, while professional translators may charge $50 to $150 and take one to two weeks.
International Driving Permit versus a translated license
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and is recognized in over 150 countries. It is a booklet that translates your license information into multiple languages and works only when carried alongside your original U.S. driver's license. You cannot drive using only an IDP — you must have both documents.
A translated license, by contrast, is a certified translation of your actual license document into a single language. Some countries require both an IDP and a translation. Others accept only one or the other. A few accept your U.S. license alone.
The IDP is often the simpler choice because AAA handles the entire process, it is inexpensive (typically $20), and it is valid in most countries. However, if you are traveling to a specific country that requires a translation in that country's language rather than an IDP, you will need to obtain one separately. Check your destination country's embassy website or rental car company policy before deciding which route to take.
How to get an International Driving Permit through AAA
The American Automobile Association issues IDPs at its local offices across the United States. To obtain one, you need your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or other government-issued photo ID, and a passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches). Some AAA offices accept digital photos; others require a printed photo.
Visit your nearest AAA office in person — you cannot order an IDP online or by mail. Bring all required documents and the photo. The office will complete the process, take your information, and issue the permit on the spot or within a few days, depending on the office's workload. The cost is typically $20, though prices vary slightly by location. An IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue.
If you are not an AAA member, you can still purchase an IDP at an AAA office without a membership. However, some offices offer a small discount to members. You do not need to join AAA to get the permit.
How to get a certified translation of your driver's license
If your destination country requires a translation in a specific language rather than an IDP, you have three main options: use AAA, hire a professional translation service, or contact your state's DMV.
Through AAA: Some AAA offices offer certified translations of driver's licenses into common languages such as Spanish, French, German, and Italian. Call your local AAA office to ask whether they provide this service and which languages they cover. If they do, bring your license and passport photo. Cost is typically $15 to $30, and turnaround is same-day or within a few days.
Through a professional translation service: Companies that specialize in document translation can translate your license into nearly any language. Search online for "certified driver's license translation" plus your state name, or ask your car rental company for a referral. Professional translators typically charge $50 to $150 per document and take one to two weeks. Confirm that the translator is certified and that the translation will be accepted in your destination country before paying.
Through your state's DMV: Some state motor vehicle departments offer translation services or maintain lists of approved translators. Contact your state DMV directly to ask whether they provide translations or can recommend a certified translator in your area. A few states offer this service free or for a small fee; others do not offer it at all.
What information appears on a translated license and what documents you need
A translated driver's license contains the same information as your original license: your name, date of birth, address, license number, expiration date, and any restrictions or endorsements (such as corrective lenses required). The translation straightforward renders this information in another language, word for word.
To obtain a translation, you will need to provide your original, valid U.S. driver's license. Some translation services also request a photocopy of your license or a scan. If you are using AAA, you may also need a passport-sized photo, though this is not always required for a translation-only service (it is required for an IDP).
Do not expect a translation to include information about your driving record, insurance status, or any violations. A translation is a certified copy of the license document itself, nothing more. If a foreign authority needs your driving record, you will need to request that separately from your state's DMV.
Cost and processing time by method
| Method | Typical Cost | Processing Time | What You Need to Bring |
|---|---|---|---|
| AAA International Driving Permit | $20 | Same-day or within days | Valid driver's license, passport or photo ID, 2x2 photo |
| AAA certified translation | $15–$30 | Same-day or within days | Valid driver's license, possibly a photo |
| Professional translation service | $50–$150 | 1–2 weeks | Valid driver's license, photocopy or scan |
| State DMV translation (where available) | Free to $25 | Varies by state | Valid driver's license, proof of residency |
What happens if you drive abroad without a translation or IDP
Driving without the required documentation in a foreign country can result in a fine, vehicle impound, or legal trouble. Police in many countries will not accept a U.S. driver's license alone, even if it is valid and in English. If you are stopped and cannot produce the translation or IDP your destination country requires, you may be treated as an unlicensed driver.
Car rental companies also enforce these rules. If you rent a vehicle and do not have the required translation or IDP, the rental company may refuse to hand over the keys, or they may charge you a fee to provide one on-site (which is often more expensive than obtaining one before you travel). Some rental agreements include a clause allowing the company to cancel your reservation if you cannot produce the required documents.
Your U.S. auto insurance may not cover you if you are driving illegally under local law. Check with your insurance company before you travel to confirm what documents they require and what they will cover.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need both an International Driving Permit and a translated license?
It depends on your destination. Most countries accept an IDP alone. Some require a translation in their specific language. A few require both. Check your destination country's embassy website or call the rental car company you plan to use — they will tell you exactly what documents you need.
How long is a translated driver's license valid?
A translation is valid as long as your original U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license expires, the translation expires with it. An International Driving Permit, by contrast, is valid for three years regardless of your license expiration date.
Can I get a translation by mail or online?
An International Driving Permit must be obtained in person at an AAA office. Some professional translation services accept documents by mail or email and return the translated copy by mail. AAA certified translations typically require an in-person visit, though you should call your local office to confirm.
What if my driver's license is suspended or expired?
You cannot obtain a translation or IDP with a suspended or expired license. Your license must be valid and current. If your license is suspended, you must resolve the suspension with your state's DMV first. If it is expired, you must renew it before obtaining a translation or IDP.
Will a translated license help me if I get a traffic ticket abroad?
A translation proves you hold a valid U.S. license, but it does not protect you from traffic laws or fines in a foreign country. If you are cited for a traffic violation, you are subject to that country's laws and penalties. Your translation is straightforward proof that you were legally licensed to drive.