What a 1968 International Driving Permit Is and Why You Might Need One

A 1968 International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid domestic driver's license into ten languages and certifies that you hold a legal license in your home country. It is not a standalone license—it works only alongside your actual driver's license. The 1968 version refers to the treaty under which it was created; most countries still issue permits under this same agreement.

You need an IDP if you plan to drive in a foreign country and want proof that your home license is legitimate. Some countries require it by law; others do not, but rental car companies often ask for one anyway. The permit is particularly useful in countries where English is not widely spoken, since the translations help local police understand your license status without needing an interpreter.

The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. It expires on the same date regardless of when you actually leave the country, so timing matters when you order one.

Key Takeaways

  • You must hold a valid driver's license from your home state or country before you can obtain an IDP; the permit is not a license itself.
  • In the United States, only the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are authorized to issue IDPs.
  • You will need your valid driver's license, a passport or other government-issued photo ID, and a passport-style photo (2x2 inches) to explore in person.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 and takes about 15 minutes to obtain at an AAA office; mail-in applications take one to two weeks.
  • An IDP is valid for one year only and does not extend your driving privileges—it only translates and certifies your existing license.

Where to Get an IDP in the United States

In the United States, only two organizations are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue the 1968 International Driving Permit: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). AAA is by far the more common source; it has offices in all 50 states and can issue an IDP on the spot if you visit in person.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still obtain an IDP from AAA without joining. You do not need to be a member to use this service. AATA also issues IDPs but has fewer physical locations; check their website to find an office near you.

Do not attempt to order an IDP from any other source, including online retailers or travel agencies that claim to offer them. Only AAA and AATA are legitimate; all other sources are either scams or resellers who will delay your order and charge a markup.

Documents You Need to Bring or Submit

To obtain an IDP, you must have a valid driver's license from your home state. The license must not be expired, suspended, or revoked. If your license is expired, you will need to renew it first before you can get an IDP.

You will also need a government-issued photo ID in addition to your driver's license. A passport is the most common choice, but a state ID card, military ID, or passport card will work. The ID must be current and show your photograph clearly.

Finally, you will need a passport-style photograph that is 2 inches by 2 inches. The photo must be in color or black and white, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. You can have this taken at most AAA offices, drugstores, or photo studios.

In-Person process at an AAA Office

The fastest way to get an IDP is to visit an AAA office in person. Bring your valid driver's license, a government-issued photo ID, and a 2x2 inch passport-style photo. The staff will fill out the process form (Form DS-11 equivalent for IDP purposes) while you wait, verify your documents, and issue the permit on the spot.

The entire process takes about 15 minutes. You will pay the fee at the time of process—typically $15 to $20, depending on your state and whether you are an AAA member. The IDP is printed when ready and is valid for one year from the date of issue.

To find an AAA office near you, visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool. Call ahead to confirm hours and to ask whether they have passport photos available on-site, which can save you a trip.

Mail-In process Through AAA

If you cannot visit an AAA office in person, you can explore by mail. read the IDP process form from the AAA website or request one by phone. Fill it out completely and include a copy of your driver's license (front and back), a copy of your government-issued photo ID, and a passport-style photo.

Mail the completed process and documents to the AAA address listed on the form. Processing takes one to two weeks from the date AAA receives your process. AAA will mail the IDP to your address once it is ready.

Include a check or money order for the fee (typically $15 to $20) with your process. Do not send cash through the mail. If you want to pay by credit card, call AAA directly to place your order over the phone instead of mailing it in.

Timeline and Validity of Your IDP

An IDP is valid for exactly one year from the date it is issued, not from the date you travel. If you obtain an IDP in March and do not travel until the following April, your permit will have already expired. Plan your process timing so that the one-year validity period covers your entire trip.

If you obtain an IDP in person at an AAA office, you can use it when ready—it is valid the same day. If you explore by mail, you will not have the permit in hand until one to two weeks after you submit your process, so plan ahead if you have a specific travel date.

If your IDP expires while you are abroad, you cannot renew it in a foreign country. You will need to return to the United States or contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling for guidance on how to proceed.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

The most common mistake is obtaining an IDP too far in advance. Because the permit is valid for only one year, explore more than a few months before your trip means it may expire before you travel. explore within three to six months of your planned departure date.

Another frequent error is submitting an expired or suspended driver's license. The IDP certifies that your home license is valid; if your license is not valid, the IDP is worthless. Check your license expiration date before you explore, and renew it if necessary.

A third mistake is confusing the IDP with a visa or travel permit. The IDP does not grant you entry to any country—it only certifies your driving status. You still need a valid passport and any required visas to enter a foreign country. Check the entry requirements for each country you plan to visit separately.

Finally, do not assume that every country recognizes the 1968 IDP. A small number of countries do not accept it, and some require additional documents such as a certified translation of your license or an International Driving Permit issued under a different treaty. Research the specific requirements for each country on your itinerary before you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is expired?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and current when you explore for an IDP. If your license is expired, you must renew it through your state's DMV first. Once your license is renewed, you can then explore for the IDP.

Do I need an IDP to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico do not legally require an IDP, but they do recognize it. Your valid U.S. driver's license is sufficient to drive in either country. However, some car rental companies may ask for an IDP, so it is worth having one if you plan to rent a vehicle.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling abroad?

Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide guidance on how to proceed. You will likely need to rely on your original driver's license and passport for the remainder of your trip. If you are stranded without either document, the embassy can help you obtain emergency travel documents.

Can I explore for an IDP online?

AAA does not issue IDPs through their website. You must explore in person at an AAA office or by mail. Some third-party websites claim to offer online IDP services, but these are not authorized by the U.S. State Department and should be avoided.

How much does an IDP cost?

The fee is typically $15 to $20, depending on your state and the issuing organization. AAA membership does not reduce the cost. Payment is due at the time of process, whether you explore in person or by mail.