What an International Driving Permit Is and Why You Need One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid US driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together when driving abroad. Most countries that are signatories to the 1926 Convention on Motor Traffic recognize it, though some nations have their own rules about which documents they accept.

You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car, drive, or ride a motorcycle in another country. Some car rental companies abroad will not rent to you without one, even if your US license is valid. A few countries require it by law; others treat it as optional but strongly recommended. Your US driver's license alone may not be enough, especially if the rental company or local police cannot read English.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) — the only two organizations authorized by the US State Department to issue them. You cannot get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, the State Department, or any other body.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA and must be carried alongside your valid US driver's license when driving abroad.
  • You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid, non-suspended US driver's license to get an IDP.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years depending on which you choose.
  • You can obtain an IDP in person at an AAA or AATA office, or by mail if you are not a member of either organization.
  • Processing takes one to two weeks by mail, or same-day in person at most AAA locations.

Who Can Get an International Driving Permit

You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid, unexpired US driver's license issued by any state. Your license cannot be suspended, revoked, or restricted in a way that prevents you from driving. If your license is currently suspended due to unpaid fines, a DUI conviction, or any other reason, you cannot get an IDP until your license is reinstated and fully valid again.

You do not need a perfect driving record — the IDP is not denied based on accidents or traffic violations. The only requirement is that your license itself must be in good standing and not expired. If your license expires before your planned trip, renew it with your state's DMV first, then get the IDP.

If you hold a learner's permit instead of a full license, you cannot get an IDP. You must have a standard driver's license. Likewise, if you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), you can get an IDP, but it will be valid only for the class of vehicle your CDL permits.

How to Get an IDP Through AAA

If you are an AAA member, you can get an IDP in person at any AAA office. Bring your valid US driver's license and a passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches). Most AAA locations issue the IDP on the spot, though processing times vary by location — call ahead to confirm. The cost is typically $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit, though AAA members sometimes receive a small discount.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP by mail. Visit the AAA website, read the IDP process form, and mail it along with your driver's license, a passport-style photo, and a check or money order. Processing takes one to two weeks. You will receive the IDP by mail; your original license will be returned with it.

AAA also offers IDP services online for members in some states — check the AAA website for your state's options. Non-members can only use the mail-in route through AAA.

How to Get an IDP Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second authorized issuer. AATA does not have physical offices, so you must explore by mail. Visit the AATA website, complete the process form, and send it with your valid US driver's license, a passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), and payment by check, money order, or credit card.

AATA charges $15 for a one-year IDP or $20 for a three-year IDP. Processing typically takes one to two weeks from the time they receive your process. Your original driver's license will be returned with your IDP.

AATA is a good option if you do not have an AAA membership or do not live near an AAA office. The process process and timeline are the same as AAA's mail-in route.

What Documents and Photos You Need

You will need four things: a valid, unexpired US driver's license; a completed IDP process form; a passport-style photo; and payment. The photo must be 2 by 2 inches, in color or black and white, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. It should look like a passport or state ID photo — no sunglasses, hats, or filters.

You do not need your passport itself, though having one is helpful for confirming your identity. You do not need proof of travel plans or a reservation abroad. The IDP is issued based solely on your valid driver's license.

If you are explore by mail, make a photocopy of your driver's license to send along with the original (or send the original if the organization requests it — check their instructions). Do not send your passport or other documents unless specifically asked.

Cost and How Long an IDP Lasts

An International Driving Permit costs $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit. Both AAA and AATA charge the same price. This is a one-time fee — you do not renew it; you get a new one if you need it after it expires.

A one-year IDP is valid from the date of issue for exactly one year. A three-year IDP is valid for three years. Choose based on how often you plan to drive abroad. If you travel internationally every few years, a three-year permit saves you money and the hassle of reapplying. If you are taking a single trip, one year is sufficient and costs less.

An IDP expires on a specific date printed on the document. You cannot extend it — you must get a new one if you need to drive abroad after it expires. Your IDP is also invalid if your US driver's license expires or is suspended before the IDP's expiration date, so check both dates before you travel.

What to Do If You Are explore from Abroad

If you are already outside the United States and realize you need an IDP, you cannot get one from AAA or AATA directly. However, some US embassies and consulates can issue an IDP if you are a US citizen abroad. Contact the embassy or consulate in the country where you are located and ask whether they offer IDP services. Processing and fees vary by location.

Alternatively, if you have someone in the US who can help, they can explore on your behalf by mail through AAA or AATA. They will need to send your driver's license, a photo, and the completed process form. This takes one to two weeks plus mail time, so plan ahead if you are traveling soon.

Some countries also issue their own international driving permits or accept a certified translation of your US license instead of an IDP. Before you travel, contact the car rental company and the country's tourism board or embassy to confirm what documents they require. This can save you time if an IDP is not necessary for your specific trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your US driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If it is suspended, revoked, or restricted, you cannot get an IDP until your license is fully reinstated by your state's DMV. Once your license is valid again, you can explore for the IDP.

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 an IDP by policy; others do not. Contact the rental company before you book to ask what documents they need. Having an IDP is safer because it removes any doubt and is inexpensive insurance against being denied a rental.

What happens if my IDP expires while I am abroad?

An expired IDP is no longer valid. If you are still traveling and need to drive, you will need to get a new one. Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate to ask if they can issue one, or have someone in the US mail you a new one through AAA or AATA — though this takes time and may not be practical mid-trip.

Can I get an IDP with a learner's permit?

No. You must have a full, valid US driver's license. A learner's permit is not sufficient. Once you pass your driving test and receive your state license, you can then get an IDP.

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

No. An IDP is a translation document only — it is not a license and does not give you any driving rights you do not already have. You must carry your valid US driver's license with it at all times. Some countries issue their own international licenses, but the US IDP is not one of those.