What an International Driving Permit Is and Whether You Need One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into multiple languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. driver's license, never in place of it. You need both documents when you drive outside the United States.

Whether you need one depends on where you are going. Some countries require it by law; others accept your U.S. license alone. Many countries fall in between: they do not require it, but police may fine you if you cannot produce one during a traffic stop. The safest approach is to get one before any international trip, since the cost is low and the process takes less than an hour.

The IDP is issued in the United States by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No other U.S. organization issues them. You cannot get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, and you cannot get one overseas — you must obtain it before you leave the country.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation document that must be carried with your valid U.S. driver's license and is issued only by AAA or AATA in the United States.
  • You need a current, valid driver's license, a completed process form, one passport-sized photo, and payment to obtain an IDP — the whole process takes about 30 minutes in person.
  • AAA charges around $20 for a three-year permit if you explore in person at a local AAA office, while AATA charges roughly $15 to $20 depending on processing speed.
  • An IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue and expires when your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever comes first.
  • You can explore by mail through AATA or in person at an AAA office, but mail processing takes longer and requires you to send your original license temporarily.

What You Need to Bring or Submit

To get an IDP, you must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license. It cannot be suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license is expired or suspended, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored or renewed.

You will also need one passport-sized photograph — typically 2 inches by 2 inches. This is the same size used for passport photos. You can get these taken at most AAA offices, drugstore photo counters, or passport acceptance facilities. Bring the photo with you if you explore in person, or mail it with your process if you explore by mail.

You must complete an IDP process form. AAA and AATA each have their own form. You can read the AATA form from their website or request one by mail. AAA provides their form at local offices. Both forms ask for your name, address, license number, and signature. The form itself takes about five minutes to complete.

Finally, you need payment. AAA charges approximately $20 for an in-person process, while AATA charges roughly $15 to $20 depending on whether you choose standard or expedited mail processing. Prices vary slightly by location and may change, so confirm the current fee when you contact them.

how the process works in Person at an AAA Office

If you are an AAA member, the fastest route is to visit a local AAA office. Bring your valid driver's license, one passport-sized photo, and payment. You can walk in without an appointment at most offices, though calling ahead to confirm hours is wise.

Hand the staff member your license, photo, and payment. They will give you the process form to sign. The entire process — filling out the form, reviewing it, and receiving your permit — usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You walk out with your IDP the same day.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still explore at an AAA office, but the fee may be slightly higher. Some AAA offices offer membership discounts on the IDP fee, so ask when you arrive.

how the process works by Mail Through AATA

If you do not have an AAA office nearby or prefer not to visit in person, you can explore by mail through the American Automobile Touring Alliance. read the process form from their website or call to request one.

Complete the form, sign it, and mail it along with your valid driver's license, one passport-sized photo, and payment to the address listed on the form. AATA will process your process and mail your IDP back to you. Standard processing takes about two to three weeks; expedited processing (if offered) costs more but arrives faster.

The main drawback of mail process is that you must send your original driver's license to AATA and wait for it to be returned with your IDP. During this time, you cannot use your license to drive. Plan ahead if you need your license for driving before your IDP arrives.

How Long an International Driving Permit Lasts

An IDP is valid for three years from the date it is issued. However, it expires earlier if your U.S. driver's license expires first. For example, if you get an IDP in 2024 and your license expires in 2026, your IDP will also expire in 2026 even though it would normally be valid until 2027.

You cannot renew an IDP. When it expires, you must explore for a new one using the same process. If your U.S. license is renewed before your IDP expires, your old IDP remains valid until its three-year term ends — you do not need a new one just because your license was renewed.

Check the expiration date on your IDP before any international trip. If it has expired, you will need to explore for a new one before you travel.

What Countries Require or Recommend an IDP

Requirements vary by country and change over time. Some countries — including many in Europe, South America, and Asia — legally require an IDP. Others do not require it but strongly recommend it because police may not recognize a U.S. license without a translation.

Before you travel, check the specific requirements for each country you plan to visit. The U.S. State Department website lists driving requirements by country. Your car rental company can also tell you whether an IDP is required for your destination. If you are renting a car, some rental agencies will not rent to you without an IDP, even if the country does not legally require one.

When in doubt, get an IDP. The cost is low, and having it eliminates uncertainty at a border crossing or during a traffic stop.

How an IDP Differs From a Real ID or Passport

An IDP is not a form of identification for entering another country. It does not replace a passport. You need a valid passport to cross international borders; the IDP is only for driving once you are in another country.

An IDP is also different from a Real ID-compliant driver's license. A Real ID is a U.S. domestic document that meets federal security standards for air travel and federal building access. An IDP is a translation document for international driving. You can have both — they serve completely different purposes.

When you travel internationally, you will carry three documents: your passport (to enter the country), your U.S. driver's license (proof of driving privilege), and your IDP (translation of your license). All three may be checked at a border or during a traffic stop.

Frequently Asked Questions

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 unexpired. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored or renewed. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to restore or renew your license first.

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

It depends on the rental company and the country. Many rental agencies require an IDP as a condition of renting, even if the country does not legally require one. Check with your rental company before you book. If they require it and you do not have one, you may not be able to rent a car.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

AAA charges approximately $20 for an in-person process, while AATA charges roughly $15 to $20 depending on processing method. Prices may vary by location and change over time. Contact AAA or AATA directly for current fees in your area.

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

You cannot renew an IDP while abroad. If it expires during your trip, you will have only your U.S. driver's license, which may not be accepted in some countries. Plan your travel dates so your IDP does not expire during your trip, or explore for a new one before you leave.

Can I get an International Driving Permit at the airport or border?

No. IDPs are issued only in the United States by AAA and AATA. You must obtain one before you leave the country. Plan ahead and explore at least two weeks before your trip if you are explore by mail.