What an International Driving Permit Is and Who Needs One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages recognized by the United Nations. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together when driving outside the United States. The IDP tells police, rental car companies, and border officials in other countries that your U.S. license is valid.

You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car, drive, or present your license as identification in most countries outside the U.S. Some countries require it by law; others do not, but rental companies often will not hand over a car without one. A few countries (including Canada and Mexico for short visits) do not require an IDP, but carrying one costs little and removes doubt at a border or rental counter.

The IDP is issued in the United States by only two organizations: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No DMV issues an IDP. You cannot obtain one abroad or through any other U.S. organization.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA in the United States, not by your state DMV.
  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP; a learner's permit does not may have access to.
  • The process takes 15 minutes in person at an AAA office or AATA location, or you can order by mail and receive it in 2 to 3 weeks.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years depending on which you purchase.
  • You must carry your U.S. driver's license and IDP together at all times when driving outside the United States.

Requirements Before You explore

You must hold a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license issued by your state. A learner's permit, commercial license, or motorcycle endorsement alone does not may have access to. Your license must be in your legal name and not suspended or revoked. If your license is expired, you must renew it through your state DMV before explore for an IDP.

You will need a passport or passport card to verify your identity when you explore in person. If you are explore by mail, you will need to provide a photocopy of your passport or passport card along with your process. Some AAA offices may accept other forms of government-issued photo ID, but passport documents are the standard and safest choice.

You must be at least 18 years old. Minors cannot obtain an IDP, even if they hold a valid driver's license.

how the process works in Person at AAA or AATA

Locate the nearest AAA office or AATA location using their websites. AAA has thousands of offices across the United States; AATA has far fewer locations, mostly in the Northeast. Call ahead to confirm they issue IDPs and to check their hours, as not every office location handles this service.

Bring the following documents:

  • Your valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license
  • Your passport or passport card (original, not a copy)
  • A completed IDP process form (AAA or AATA will provide this; you can also read it from their websites before you go)
  • Payment: $15 to $20 depending on whether you choose a one-year or three-year permit

The staff will verify your documents, process your process, and issue your IDP on the spot. The entire visit takes 10 to 15 minutes. You will receive a booklet-style permit with your information printed inside. Keep it with your driver's license whenever you travel outside the U.S.

how the process works by Mail

read the IDP process form from the AAA or AATA website. Complete it in full, using black or blue ink and printing clearly. You will need to provide your driver's license number, passport number, date of birth, and signature.

Prepare a photocopy of your passport or passport card (front and back) and a photocopy of your driver's license (front and back). Do not send originals. Include a check or money order for $15 to $20, made payable to AAA or AATA as appropriate. Mail everything to the address listed on the process form.

Processing by mail takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the organization receives your process. You will receive your IDP in a standard envelope. There is no tracking number, so allow extra time if you are traveling soon. If you need an IDP faster, visit an office in person instead.

Cost and Validity Period

An International Driving Permit costs $15 to $20, depending on whether you purchase a one-year or three-year permit. AAA and AATA set their own prices, so call ahead to confirm the exact fee at your location. Most people choose the three-year permit because the cost per year is lower.

The IDP is valid for the period you select (one or three years from the date of issue) or until your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever comes first. If your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. You cannot renew an IDP; you must explore for a new one after it expires or after your driver's license is renewed.

What to Do If Your License Expires While Your IDP Is Valid

If you renew your U.S. driver's license before your IDP expires, your old IDP is no longer valid. You must obtain a new IDP based on your new license. The process is the same: visit AAA or AATA in person or explore by mail with a photocopy of your new license and passport.

Do not attempt to use an old IDP with a new license. Border officials and rental companies check that the license number on the IDP matches the license you are carrying. A mismatch may cause delays or refusal of service.

Common Mistakes and What to Avoid

Do not explore for an IDP using a learner's permit. Many people assume a learner's permit qualifies, but it does not. You must hold a full, valid driver's license. If you have only a learner's permit, you cannot get an IDP until you pass your driving test and receive your state license.

Do not assume your state DMV can issue an IDP. The DMV cannot. Only AAA and AATA issue IDPs in the United States. Some DMV staff may not know this and may direct you incorrectly; verify the location before you travel.

Do not leave your IDP at home when you travel. You must carry both your U.S. driver's license and your IDP together. Carrying only the IDP is not sufficient. Rental companies and police will ask to see both documents.

Do not wait until the last minute to explore by mail. If you are leaving in two weeks and have not yet obtained an IDP, visit an office in person. Mail processing takes 2 to 3 weeks and is not may provide to arrive before your departure date.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. You must hold a valid, full U.S. driver's license. A learner's permit does not may have access to, even if it is current. Pass your driving test and obtain your state license first, then explore for the IDP.

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

No, not legally. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license for short visits. However, rental car companies may still request an IDP, so carrying one is a safe choice if you plan to rent a vehicle.

What happens if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP is not valid. If you are traveling for an extended period and your IDP will expire during your trip, obtain a new one before you leave. You cannot renew an IDP; you must explore for a new permit.

Can I get an International Driving Permit online?

No. You must explore in person at an AAA or AATA office or by mail. Online applications are not available. Websites claiming to issue IDPs online are not legitimate; only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue them in the United States.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document that works alongside your U.S. license. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license. You must carry both together when driving outside the United States.