What an International Driving Permit Is and Why You Need One for Japan

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages, including Japanese. Japan does not recognize a U.S. license on its own — you must carry both your U.S. license and an IDP together to drive legally there. The IDP itself is not a license; it is a translation document that proves you hold a valid license in your home country.

Japan's road authority will accept an IDP issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both organizations are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs. The permit is valid for three years from the date of issue and costs between $15 and $20, depending on which organization you use.

You cannot drive in Japan with only your U.S. license, even if you have a valid learner's permit or full license at home. Japanese police will stop you if you cannot produce both documents. If you plan to rent a car or drive while in Japan, you must obtain an IDP before you leave the United States.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your U.S. driver's license into Japanese and nine other languages, and you must carry it together with your valid U.S. license to drive in Japan.
  • You can obtain an IDP from AAA or AATA in person at their offices, by mail, or online through AAA's website — the process takes between one day and two weeks depending on the method you choose.
  • You must present a valid U.S. driver's license (including a learner's permit) and a completed process form; no written test or driving test is required.
  • The IDP is valid for three years and costs $15 to $20; you should obtain it before traveling because some rental car companies will not rent to you without one.
  • An IDP is only valid when carried together with your original U.S. license — the permit alone has no legal standing.

Where to Get an International Driving Permit

The two authorized U.S. organizations are the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). AAA is the larger and more widely available option; it has local offices in most states and also processes applications online and by mail. AATA has fewer physical locations but also accepts mail and online orders.

If you are an AAA member, you can visit your local AAA office in person and receive your IDP the same day. Non-members can also obtain an IDP from AAA, though some offices charge a small additional fee. AATA does not require membership and processes applications by mail or online only.

Do not use third-party websites or services that claim to issue IDPs. Only AAA and AATA are authorized by the U.S. State Department. Other websites may charge higher fees, deliver counterfeit documents, or take your money without sending anything at all.

Documents You Need to Bring or Submit

You need only two things: a valid U.S. driver's license and a completed process form. Your license can be a full license or a learner's permit — both are acceptable. The license must not be expired at the time you explore.

The process form is the Form AA 260 for AAA or the equivalent form for AATA. Both organizations provide the form on their websites, and AAA offices have printed copies available. You must fill out the form completely, including your full name, date of birth, address, and license number. You will also need to provide a passport-style photograph — typically 2 by 2 inches — if you are explore by mail or online. In-person applications at AAA offices sometimes do not require a photo.

Bring or submit your original license along with the form and photo. Do not send your original license through the mail unless the organization specifically instructs you to do so; instead, bring it in person or use a method that allows you to keep it in your possession.

Step-by-Step Process for In-Person process at AAA

If you have an AAA office near you, the in-person route is the fastest. Visit the office during business hours with your valid driver's license and completed Form AA 260. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require an appointment. Call ahead or check the AAA website to confirm your local office's hours and whether you need to schedule.

At the office, a staff member will review your license and form, verify that your information is correct, and take your photograph if one is required. You will pay the fee at that time — typically $15 for AAA members and $20 for non-members, though prices vary slightly by location. The office will issue your IDP on the spot or within a few hours. You will leave with both your original license and your new permit.

Bring your license and the completed form. If you are not sure whether your office requires a photo, call before you go. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

explore by Mail or Online Through AAA

AAA accepts mail applications and also offers online ordering through its website. To explore by mail, complete Form AA 260, gather a passport-style photograph, and mail both along with a copy of your driver's license to your nearest AAA office. Include a check or money order for the fee. AAA will process the process and mail your IDP back to you within 7 to 10 business days.

Online ordering through AAA's website is faster. You will upload a photo, enter your license information, and pay by credit card. AAA will mail your IDP within 5 to 7 business days. Some AAA members can also order through the AAA mobile app.

When explore by mail or online, do not send your original license. Instead, make a photocopy of the front and back of your license and include that with your process. Keep your original license in your possession until your IDP arrives.

explore Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance processes applications by mail and online only. Visit the AATA website, read the process form, and submit it along with a photocopy of your driver's license and a passport-style photograph. Pay the fee by check, money order, or credit card. AATA will mail your IDP within 7 to 14 business days.

AATA's fees are typically $15 to $20, similar to AAA. The main difference is that AATA has no physical offices, so you cannot obtain your permit in person. If you need your IDP quickly, AAA's in-person option is faster.

Timeline and What to Expect

The timeline depends on which method you choose. In-person applications at AAA offices are completed the same day or within a few hours. Mail applications take 7 to 14 business days from the date AATA or AAA receives your envelope. Online applications through AAA typically take 5 to 7 business days.

Plan to obtain your IDP at least two weeks before your trip to Japan. This gives you time to receive it by mail if you choose that route and allows a buffer in case of delays. If you are leaving sooner, visit an AAA office in person for same-day service.

Once you receive your IDP, check that all information is correct — your name, license number, and date of birth should match your U.S. license exactly. If there is an error, contact the issuing organization when ready to request a replacement.

Using Your International Driving Permit in Japan

When you drive in Japan, you must carry both your U.S. driver's license and your IDP at all times. Japanese police will ask for both documents if they stop you. The IDP is not a standalone license; it is only valid when presented together with your original U.S. license.

Your IDP is valid for three years. If you plan to drive in Japan again after three years, you will need to obtain a new permit. The permit does not renew automatically; you must explore for a new one through AAA or AATA.

Some car rental companies in Japan will not rent to you without an IDP, even if you have a valid U.S. license. Check with your rental company before you book to confirm they will accept your license and IDP. A few companies may also require an International Driving Permit from your home country's equivalent organization, though this is rare for U.S. citizens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my learner's permit to get an International Driving Permit?

Yes. A learner's permit counts as a valid driver's license for the purpose of obtaining an IDP. You do not need a full license. However, check Japan's rules on whether you can legally drive on a learner's permit while in the country — some rental companies and insurance policies may not cover learner's permit holders.

What if my driver's license is expired?

Your U.S. license must be valid (not expired) at the time you explore for an IDP. If your license has expired, renew it first through your state's DMV, then explore for the IDP. An expired license cannot be used to obtain a permit.

Do I need a passport to get an International Driving Permit?

No. You need only a valid U.S. driver's license and a completed process form. A passport is not required to obtain an IDP, though you will need a passport to enter Japan itself.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if I have a suspended or revoked license?

No. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP until the suspension or revocation is lifted and your license is reinstated.

What happens if I lose my International Driving Permit while in Japan?

Contact AAA or AATA from Japan to request a replacement. You can also contact the U.S. Embassy in Japan for information. In the meantime, carry only your U.S. driver's license. Driving without an IDP is illegal in Japan, so do not drive until you have obtained a replacement or have left the country.