What an International Driving Permit Is and Who Needs One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license from your state. You need one if you plan to rent a car or drive in another country.

The IDP is recognized in over 150 countries and is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). It costs between $15 and $20 and takes about 15 minutes to obtain in person. You cannot get one by mail or online, and you cannot get one before you have a valid driver's license in hand.

If you are traveling abroad and plan to drive, check the specific country's requirements before you leave. Some countries require an IDP; others accept only your U.S. license. Some rental car companies will not rent to you without one, even if the country does not legally require it.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your state driver's license and must be obtained in person from AAA or AATA before you travel.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license to get an IDP; a learner's permit does not may have access to.
  • The IDP costs $15 to $20, is valid for one or three years depending on which you choose, and expires when your U.S. license expires.
  • You will need a passport-style photo, your driver's license, and proof of citizenship or permanent residency to complete the process in person.
  • An IDP is not required by law in most countries but is often required by car rental companies and is useful if you are stopped by police.

Where to Get an International Driving Permit

The only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs in the United States are the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). AAA is by far the more common source — there are AAA offices in most cities and many suburbs. AATA is less widely available but serves the same purpose.

You must visit an office in person. Call ahead to confirm hours and to ask whether you need an appointment. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require you to book a time slot. During busy travel seasons (spring and summer), offices can have long waits, so arriving early or scheduling in advance is wise.

If you do not have an AAA membership, you can still get an IDP at an AAA office without joining. If you are an AATA member or want to become one, AATA offices can issue the permit as well. Neither organization requires membership to issue the document.

What You Need to Bring

Bring your valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license. This is the document being translated, so it must be current. A learner's permit, even if it is valid, does not may have access to.

Bring one passport-style photo, 2 by 2 inches. Most AAA and AATA offices can take the photo on-site for a small additional fee if you do not have one. Bring proof of citizenship or permanent residency — a passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card. Bring the completed IDP process form, which you can fill out at home or at the office. AAA and AATA provide the form on their websites and in their offices.

Bring payment: cash, debit card, or credit card. The fee is $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit. Some offices may have different pricing, so confirm when you call.

How Long the Process Takes and When Your Permit Expires

The process itself takes about 15 minutes. You fill out the form, show your documents, have your photo taken if needed, pay the fee, and receive your IDP on the spot. You walk out with the document the same day.

Your IDP is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which you purchase. The three-year permit costs $5 more and is the better value if you travel internationally more than once. However, your IDP expires when your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever comes first. If your license expires in two years and you buy a three-year IDP, the permit will stop being valid after two years.

You do not need to renew your IDP when you renew your driver's license. You will need to get a new one if you want to continue driving abroad after your current permit expires.

What to Do If You Are Traveling Soon

If you are leaving in the next few weeks, visit an AAA or AATA office as soon as possible. The permit is issued when ready, but offices can be crowded during peak travel seasons. Calling ahead to schedule an appointment will save you time.

If you do not yet have a valid driver's license and are planning to drive abroad, you will need to get your license first. That process takes longer — you will need to pass your written test and road test, which can take weeks or months depending on your state and how quickly you can schedule tests. Start that process now if you are planning an international trip.

If you are traveling to a specific country, contact that country's embassy or consulate to confirm whether an IDP is required or recommended. Some countries have additional requirements, such as an International Driving Permit issued through a different organization, though this is rare. Having this information before you travel prevents problems at rental car counters or with police.

How to Use Your International Driving Permit Abroad

Always carry your IDP together with your valid U.S. driver's license. The IDP is not valid on its own — it is a translation document only. If you are stopped by police or asked to show your license at a rental car counter, present both documents together.

The IDP translates your license information into ten languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Polish. This makes it easier for police, rental agents, and border officials to understand your driving record and license status without needing a translator.

Keep your IDP in a safe place while traveling, just as you would your passport. If it is lost or stolen, you can get a replacement at an AAA or AATA office when you return to the United States, but you cannot get one while abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit with a learner's permit?

No. You must have a valid, full driver's license from your state. A learner's permit does not may have access to, even if it is current. Once you pass your road test and receive your license, you can then get an IDP.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico do not legally require an IDP, and your U.S. driver's license is sufficient. However, some car rental companies in those countries request one, so check with your rental company before you book. An IDP can also be helpful if you are stopped by police and the officer does not speak English.

What happens if my driver's license expires while I am traveling?

Your IDP becomes invalid when your driver's license expires, even if the permit itself has time remaining. Before traveling, check your license expiration date and make sure both documents are valid for the entire trip. If your license will expire during your travels, renew it before you leave.

Can I get an International Driving Permit online or by mail?

No. You must explore in person at an AAA or AATA office. The process takes about 15 minutes and you receive the permit the same day. There is no online or mail-in option.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International License?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works alongside your U.S. license. An International License does not exist as a separate category. Some countries issue their own driving permits that are valid internationally, but those are not what you obtain in the United States.