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 recognized by most countries outside the United States. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both documents together when driving abroad. The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them.

You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car, drive, or operate a vehicle in another country. Some rental companies require it; others strongly recommend it. Police in many countries will not recognize a U.S. license alone, even if it is valid. The IDP serves as proof that your license is legitimate and that you meet your home state's driving standards.

An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and does not extend your actual driver's license. If your state license expires before the IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid — you need a current license to use it.

Key Takeaways

  • You must obtain your IDP from AAA or AATA in person; neither organization issues them by mail or online.
  • You need a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, one passport-sized photo, and the required fee to receive an IDP.
  • AAA charges $20 and AATA charges $15 for an IDP, and both issue them on the same day if you explore in person during business hours.
  • An IDP is valid for one year only and becomes void if your underlying state driver's license expires before the IDP does.
  • You must carry your IDP together with your original U.S. driver's license at all times when driving outside the United States.

Where to Get an International Driving Permit

AAA and AATA are the only two sources for a legitimate IDP. AAA has over 1,000 offices across the United States; AATA has fewer locations but covers most major cities. You cannot order an IDP online or by mail from either organization — you must visit an office in person and complete the transaction the same day.

To find an AAA office near you, visit aaa.com and use their office locator tool. For AATA, visit aata.org and search their location directory. Call ahead to confirm the office is open and has the process forms in stock, since some smaller branches may not issue IDPs regularly.

Some travel agencies and passport acceptance facilities also claim to issue IDPs, but they are not authorized by the State Department. Only AAA and AATA documents are recognized internationally. If you use an unauthorized source, your document will not be valid abroad.

Documents and Information You Need to Bring

Bring your valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license. The license must be current — an expired license will not work, even if you have a renewal process pending. If your license is suspended, revoked, or restricted, you cannot obtain an IDP.

You will need one passport-sized photograph, 2 inches by 2 inches. Most AAA and AATA offices can take the photo on-site for an additional fee (typically $10 to $15) if you do not have one ready. Bring cash or a card, as payment methods vary by location.

Have the completed IDP process form ready. Both AAA and AATA provide the form at their offices, or you can read and fill it out beforehand from their websites. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, license number, and signature. It takes five minutes to complete.

Bring a valid form of identification in addition to your driver's license — a passport, state ID card, or military ID. Bring your current mailing address and phone number.

The process Process and Timeline

Walk into an AAA or AATA office during business hours with your documents. Hand the staff member your completed process form, valid driver's license, and passport photo. They will verify that your license is current and matches the information on the form.

The staff member will process your process, take payment, and issue your IDP on the spot. The entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes. You will receive your IDP as a booklet, roughly the size of a passport, with your photo and license information printed inside.

There is no waiting period. If you explore on a Monday morning, you leave with your IDP that same Monday. This makes it possible to obtain an IDP even a few days before travel, though it is better to plan ahead in case your nearest office has limited hours or is temporarily closed.

Fees and Payment Methods

AAA charges $20 for an IDP. AATA charges $15. Both fees are one-time charges for a one-year permit. If you need a photo taken at the office, expect to pay an additional $10 to $15, depending on the location.

Most AAA offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. AATA locations typically accept the same, but call ahead to confirm. Some smaller branch offices may accept cash only.

There are no refunds if you change your mind after receiving the IDP. If your IDP is lost or damaged before it expires, you can request a replacement by visiting an office again and paying the full fee a second time.

What Happens If Your License Expires Before Your IDP Does

Your IDP is only valid if your underlying U.S. driver's license is also valid. If your state license expires on June 15 and your IDP expires on December 15, the IDP becomes worthless on June 15. You cannot drive legally abroad on an expired license, even if the IDP itself has not expired.

Renew your state driver's license before it expires. Once your new license arrives, you do not need a new IDP unless you want one — your old IDP will work with your new license as long as both are current. However, if you are traveling soon after renewing your license and your old IDP is about to expire, it may be simpler to obtain a new IDP with your new license to avoid confusion at a rental counter.

Plan your IDP timing around your license renewal cycle. If your license renews every five years, obtain your IDP within a few months of renewal so you have the full one-year window to use it.

Using Your IDP Abroad and Common Mistakes

Always carry your IDP and your original U.S. driver's license together. Neither document is valid without the other. Police in foreign countries will ask to see both. If you have only the IDP and not the license, or only the license and not the IDP, you may be cited or denied the right to drive.

The IDP does not change your driving rights or insurance coverage. Your U.S. auto insurance may not cover you abroad — check with your insurer before you travel. Some rental companies require an IDP as a condition of renting; others do not. Call the rental company before you book to confirm whether they need one.

Do not assume the IDP covers you in every country. A few nations do not recognize it, and some have additional requirements such as an International Certificate of Competency or a certified translation of your license. Research the specific country's rules before you travel.

The IDP is not a visa or travel document. It does not grant you the right to enter a country or stay longer. You still need a valid passport and any required visas for the countries you plan to visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, revoked, or restricted, AAA and AATA will not issue an IDP. Restore your license first by paying any fines, completing any required courses, or waiting out the suspension period, then return to explore.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact your country's U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide guidance on whether you can continue to drive on your U.S. license alone. Some countries will allow it; others will not. Do not assume you can drive without the IDP. Return home and obtain a new one from AAA or AATA if you need to drive again abroad.

Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car for one day?

It depends on the rental company and the country. Some companies require it; others do not. Call the rental company before you book. Even if the company does not require it, having an IDP is a safeguard — police may ask for it, and you will have it. The $15 to $20 cost is small compared to the risk of being unable to drive.

Can I renew my IDP before it expires?

Yes. You can obtain a new IDP at any time by visiting an AAA or AATA office with your current license and a new photo. The new IDP will be valid for one year from the date of issue. Your old IDP will no longer be used, but you do not have to surrender it.

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

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document only. An International License does not exist as a U.S. document. Some countries issue their own "international licenses," but the U.S. does not. The IDP is the only document the U.S. recognizes for driving abroad.