What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license. You must carry both documents together when driving abroad — the IDP alone has no legal value. Most countries recognize it as proof that you hold a valid U.S. license, though a few countries do not recognize it at all.

The IDP is issued by only two organizations in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No other organization is authorized to issue one. You cannot get an IDP from your state's DMV, from an online service, or from any other vendor, regardless of what they claim.

The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue. It expires on the same date each year, not on the anniversary of when you received it. If your U.S. driver's license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid — they must both be current.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA and must be obtained in person at a local office; it cannot be ordered online or by mail.
  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP, and both documents must be carried together when driving outside the United States.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one year from the date of issue, expiring on a fixed calendar date rather than an anniversary date.
  • Some countries do not recognize the IDP, so you should verify whether your destination country accepts it before you travel.
  • Processing takes place on the same day at AAA or AATA offices; you walk in with your documents and leave with the permit the same day.

Documents You Need Before You Go to AAA or AATA

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license — this is the only document required. The license must not be expired. If your license is suspended, revoked, or restricted, you cannot get an IDP.

Bring a passport or passport card if you have one. While not required for the IDP itself, you will need it to cross international borders, and the AAA or AATA office staff may ask to see it to confirm your identity. A state ID card does not substitute for a passport when traveling outside the United States.

Bring two passport-style photos (2 by 2 inches) if you are explore through AATA. AAA does not require photos. Both organizations accept photos taken at home or at a pharmacy photo counter; they do not need to be professional. The photo must show your face clearly and be taken within the last six months.

Bring cash or a card that the office accepts. AAA and AATA both charge a fee, and not all locations accept all payment methods. Call ahead to confirm what your local office takes.

How to Find and Visit an AAA or AATA Office

AAA has more than 1,000 offices across the United States. To find the nearest one, go to aaa.com, click "Locations," enter your zip code, and filter for offices that issue International Driving Permits. Not every AAA office issues them, so do not assume your closest location does. Call the office before you visit to confirm it has permits in stock and to ask about wait times.

AATA has fewer locations than AAA. To find an AATA office, go to aataidp.com and use the office locator. AATA offices are less common in rural areas, so you may need to travel farther than you would for AAA.

Walk into the office during business hours with your driver's license, payment method, and (if explore through AATA) your two photos. You do not need an appointment at either organization. The staff will verify your license, take your information, and issue the permit on the spot. The entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes.

If you cannot reach an office in person, neither AAA nor AATA offers mail-in or online IDP service. You must appear in person.

Cost and Payment

AAA charges $15 for an International Driving Permit. AATA charges $20. These are the only authorized fees; if a website or service quotes a higher price, it is not an official IDP provider.

AAA accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at most locations. Some AAA offices may have different payment policies, so call ahead. AATA also accepts cash and cards, but policies vary by location.

The fee covers the permit itself and the processing. There are no additional charges, no renewal fees, and no expedited processing options — the permit is issued the same day regardless.

Countries That Do and Do Not Recognize the IDP

Most countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America recognize the International Driving Permit. However, some countries do not. The United Kingdom, Ireland, and several other nations do not recognize the IDP and require you to obtain an official translation of your U.S. license from a certified translator instead.

Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country and ask whether they recognize the U.S. International Driving Permit. You can find embassy contact information at state.gov. Do not assume your destination country accepts it — the consequences of driving without proper documentation can include fines, vehicle impoundment, or legal action.

Even in countries that recognize the IDP, some rental car companies may not accept it. Call your rental company before you book and confirm what documents they require. Many rental companies ask for both the IDP and an official translation of your U.S. license, even when the country itself recognizes the IDP.

What Happens If Your License Expires While You Are Abroad

If your U.S. driver's license expires while you are traveling, your IDP becomes invalid when ready, even if the permit itself has not yet expired. You cannot legally drive with an expired license, and the IDP cannot override that.

Renew your license before you travel if your license will expire during your trip. If you are already abroad and your license expires, you cannot legally drive. Contact your state's DMV to ask about emergency renewal or temporary extension options, though most states do not offer these for travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit online?

No. Only AAA and AATA issue International Driving Permits, and both require you to appear in person at a physical office. Any website claiming to issue an IDP online is not authorized by the U.S. government. You must visit an AAA or AATA location with your valid driver's license.

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

It depends on the country and the rental company. Many countries recognize the IDP as proof of your U.S. license, but some do not. Rental companies often require both the IDP and an official translation of your license. Contact your rental company and your destination country's embassy before you travel to confirm what documents you need.

How long does an International Driving Permit last?

The IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued. It expires on a fixed calendar date each year, not on the anniversary of when you received it. If your U.S. driver's license expires before the IDP does, the permit becomes invalid — both documents must be current.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact AAA or AATA when ready and report the loss. You can continue to drive with your U.S. license alone in most countries, though some may require an official translation. When you return to the United States, visit an AAA or AATA office to get a replacement permit. There is no fee for a replacement if you lost the original.

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

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and unrestricted. If your license is suspended, revoked, or has restrictions (such as corrective lenses required or commercial driving only), you cannot get an IDP until those issues are resolved and your license is fully valid again.