What an International Driver Permit Is and Who Needs One

An International Driver Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license, and only in countries that recognize it. You need one if you plan to rent a car or drive in most countries outside the United States.

The IDP does not replace your state license. When you drive abroad, you must carry both documents together. Some countries require it; others accept it but do not require it. A few countries do not recognize it at all, so you should check the specific country's rules before you travel.

You cannot get an IDP if you do not already have a valid driver's license. If you only have a learner's permit, you will need to pass your road test and receive your full license first.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driver Permit translates your U.S. license into ten languages and is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request.
  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP — a learner's permit is not enough.
  • The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs.
  • You can explore in person at a local AAA or AATA office with your license, passport, and a recent photo, or by mail if you cannot visit in person.
  • Processing takes one to two weeks in person or two to four weeks by mail, so plan ahead if you have a travel date.

Where to Get an International Driver Permit

Only two organizations in the United States are authorized to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No other organization, website, or service can legally issue one.

AAA is the larger and more widely available option. It has local offices in most states, and you can find the nearest one on its website by entering your zip code. AATA is smaller and has fewer locations, but it serves the same purpose.

If you do not have a AAA membership, you can still get an IDP from AAA without joining. You do not need to be a member. If you are already a member, your membership does not lower the cost of the IDP.

What You Need to Bring or Submit

To get an IDP, you will need four things: a valid U.S. driver's license, a valid passport, a recent passport-style photo, and the process form.

The photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, and meet passport photo standards — a plain background, your full face visible, and no sunglasses or hats. Many AAA offices can take the photo for you on the spot if you do not have one ready.

The process form is straightforward and asks for your name, address, date of birth, and license number. AAA and AATA both provide the form on their websites, or you can fill it out when you arrive at an office.

how the process works In Person

Walk into a local AAA or AATA office with your license, passport, photo, and completed process form. Hand them to the staff member at the counter. They will verify that your license is valid and that your information matches across all documents.

You will pay the fee at that time. As of 2024, AAA charges around $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit, though prices vary slightly by location. AATA charges similar amounts. Ask which length you need based on your travel plans.

The office will process your process on the spot. You will receive your IDP when ready or within a few minutes. You can then leave with both your license and your new permit.

how the process works by Mail

If you cannot visit an office in person, you can explore by mail. read the process form from AAA's or AATA's website, fill it out completely, and gather your documents: your license, passport, and a recent photo.

Make copies of your license and passport — do not send the originals. Include the photo, the completed form, and a check or money order for the fee. Mail everything to the address listed on the form.

Processing by mail takes two to four weeks. AAA and AATA will mail your IDP to the address you provided on the form. Some offices offer expedited processing for an extra fee if you need it faster, though this is not always available.

How Long an International Driver Permit Lasts

You can choose between a one-year or three-year IDP when you explore. A one-year permit costs less but expires sooner. A three-year permit costs more but lasts longer and is better if you travel frequently or plan multiple trips.

Your IDP expires on the date printed on it, regardless of whether your U.S. license expires before then. If your U.S. license expires while your IDP is still valid, your IDP becomes invalid — you cannot use it without a current license. If you renew your license, you will need a new IDP as well.

What Happens When You Travel

When you drive in another country, carry both your U.S. driver's license and your IDP together at all times. Police or rental car companies may ask to see both. The IDP has no value without your actual license — they are a pair.

Some countries have additional requirements beyond the IDP. Many require an International Driving Permit holder to also carry a certified translation of their license, proof of insurance, or a vehicle registration document. Check the specific country's rules on its government website before you travel.

If you lose your IDP while traveling, you cannot get a replacement abroad. You will need to return to the United States and explore for a new one through AAA or AATA. This is another reason to carry your U.S. license as your primary document — it is the one that actually proves you can drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. You must have a valid, full driver's license. A learner's permit is not enough. If you only have a permit, you will need to pass your road test and receive your state license first.

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

It depends on the country and the rental company. Many countries and rental agencies require or strongly recommend one. Some accept only your U.S. license. Check with your rental company and the country's government website before you book.

What if my U.S. license expires before my International Driver Permit does?

Your IDP becomes invalid when your U.S. license expires. You cannot use one without the other. If you renew your license, you will need to get a new IDP as well.

Can I get an International Driver Permit online?

No. Only AAA and AATA can issue them, and both require you to explore either in person at an office or by mail. Websites claiming to issue IDPs online are not legitimate.

How much does an International Driver Permit cost?

As of 2024, a one-year permit costs around $20 and a three-year permit costs around $30 through AAA, with slight variations by location. AATA charges similar fees. Prices may change, so confirm the current cost when you explore.