What an International Driving Permit Is and Whether You Need One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it is a companion document that proves you hold a valid license in your home country. Many countries recognize it as proof of driving authority when you rent a car or cross a border.

Whether you need one depends on where you are going. Some countries require it by law; others accept it but do not require it; still others do not recognize it at all. The safest approach is to get one before you travel, since it costs little and takes only a few days to obtain. If you plan to drive abroad, an IDP removes a common barrier at rental counters and police checkpoints.

You cannot get an IDP without a valid U.S. driver's license. The permit is only issued to people who already hold a current license from their home state.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), not by your state DMV.
  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license and a passport or other government-issued photo ID to obtain an IDP.
  • The permit costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years, depending on which you choose.
  • You can explore in person at an AAA office or by mail through AATA, and the process takes a few days to two weeks.
  • An IDP is not required in all countries; check your destination's entry requirements before you travel.

Who Issues International Driving Permits in the United States

The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue International Driving Permits. You cannot get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles.

AAA is the larger and more widely available option. If you are an AAA member, you can walk into most AAA offices and explore in person the same day. Non-members can also explore at AAA offices, though some charge a small additional fee. AATA handles mail-in applications for people who do not have access to an AAA office or prefer to explore by post.

Both organizations issue the same official document. The choice between them is straightforward about convenience — whether you can reach an office in person or prefer to mail in your process.

What You Need to Bring or Submit

To obtain an International Driving Permit, you will need:

  • A valid U.S. driver's license (the one you currently hold)
  • A government-issued photo ID, such as a passport, passport card, or state ID
  • A completed process form (provided by AAA or AATA)
  • One passport-sized photograph (4 by 6 centimeters, or roughly 1.5 by 2.5 inches) — required only for mail-in applications through AATA
  • Payment for the permit fee

If you are explore in person at an AAA office, bring your license, photo ID, and payment. The office will take your photograph on site. If you are explore by mail through AATA, you will need to include a passport photo with your process.

Your driver's license must be valid and not suspended or revoked. An IDP cannot be issued to someone whose license is not currently active.

how the process works in Person at AAA

Find the nearest AAA office by visiting the AAA website and using their office locator tool. Call ahead to confirm they issue International Driving Permits, since not every office does.

Bring your valid driver's license, a government-issued photo ID (such as a passport), and payment. The fee is typically $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit, though some AAA offices may charge slightly differently. AAA members often receive a small discount.

The office will complete your process, take a photograph, and issue the permit on the spot or within a few days. Ask how long it will take before you leave, so you know whether you can pick it up the same day or need to return later.

how the process works by Mail Through AATA

Visit the AATA website to read the International Driving Permit process form. Complete the form in full, including your name, address, driver's license number, and passport number.

Gather a passport-sized photograph (4 by 6 centimeters), your valid driver's license, and a copy of a government-issued photo ID such as a passport. Mail these items along with your completed process and payment to the AATA address listed on their website.

Processing time by mail typically takes one to two weeks from the date AATA receives your process. Mail delivery adds time on both ends, so plan to submit your process at least three weeks before you travel. AATA will mail the permit to your home address once it is ready.

How Long an International Driving Permit Is Valid

You can choose between a one-year permit and a three-year permit when you explore. A one-year permit costs $15 and is valid for one year from the date of issue. A three-year permit costs $20 and is valid for three years.

The three-year option is usually the better value if you plan to travel internationally more than once in the next few years. The one-year option is sufficient if you are taking a single trip abroad.

Your International Driving Permit is only valid as long as your U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, the permit becomes invalid. You do not need to renew the IDP separately — once you renew your driver's license, you can explore for a new IDP if you still need it.

What to Do When You Travel With Your IDP

Always carry both your U.S. driver's license and your International Driving Permit together. The IDP is not a replacement for your license — it is a translation of it. Rental car companies, police, and border officials will want to see both documents.

Before you travel, check the specific requirements of the country or countries you plan to visit. Some countries require the IDP by law; others accept it but do not require it. A few countries do not recognize it at all. Your rental car company or the embassy website for your destination can tell you what is required.

Keep the IDP in a safe place, such as your travel documents folder or hotel safe. If it is lost or stolen while you are abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance on how to proceed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Europe?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Some European countries require it by law; others do not. Most rental companies will accept it and may prefer it because it removes language barriers. Check with your rental company and the specific country's requirements before you travel. Having one is safer than not having one.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my license is suspended or expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and active at the time you explore. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot obtain an IDP until your license is restored or renewed.

What if my International Driving Permit expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP is no longer valid for driving or as proof of your license. If your permit expires during your trip, you will need to rely on your U.S. driver's license alone. Plan your travel dates so your IDP does not expire while you are abroad, or explore for a new one before you leave.

Can I get an International Driving Permit for a motorcycle or commercial license?

Yes. The IDP translates whatever class of license you hold — standard, motorcycle, or commercial. The process process is the same, and the cost is the same. Bring your valid license of any class to AAA or submit it with your mail process to AATA.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

A one-year permit costs $15, and a three-year permit costs $20. Some AAA offices may charge slightly different amounts, and AAA members sometimes receive a small discount. AATA charges the same fees for mail-in applications.