What an International Driving Permit Is and Who Needs One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into ten languages and confirms you are a licensed driver in your home country. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. driver's license. You need one if you plan to rent a car or drive in another country.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. You cannot get one from your state's DMV, and you cannot get one online in the sense of downloading it when ready — you must order it through AAA or AATA, and it arrives by mail.

Some countries require an IDP by law; others accept it as helpful but optional. Before you travel, check the specific rules for the country where you plan to drive. Your car rental company can also tell you whether they require one.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA and must be ordered by mail or in person — there is no when ready online read.
  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you order an IDP; the permit is useless without it.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 and takes one to two weeks to arrive by mail, or you can pick one up in person at an AAA office the same day.
  • You will need a passport-style photo, your driver's license, and proof of your U.S. citizenship or permanent residency to complete an order.

Ordering Through AAA Online or by Mail

The easiest route for most people is AAA. If you are an AAA member, you can start an order on the AAA website, upload your documents, and pay online. AAA will then mail the permit to you, which typically arrives within one to two weeks. If you are not an AAA member, you can still order — membership is not required — but the process is the same.

To order online through AAA, you will need to upload a color passport-style photo (2x2 inches), a clear image of both sides of your valid driver's license, and proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency (a passport, birth certificate, or green card). You will also provide your mailing address and pay the fee, which is usually $15 to $20 depending on whether you are a member.

If you prefer not to order online, you can visit an AAA office in person with the same documents and photo. Many AAA locations can issue the permit on the spot, and you walk out with it the same day. Call ahead to confirm your local office has IDP stock and accepts walk-ins.

Ordering Through AATA If AAA Is Not Available

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second authorized issuer. AATA does not have physical offices like AAA does, so you must order by mail. You can start the process on the AATA website by downloading an process form, printing it, and mailing it with your documents and payment.

The documents you need are the same: a passport-style photo, both sides of your driver's license, and proof of citizenship or permanent residency. Mail everything to the AATA address listed on their form along with a check or money order. Processing takes one to two weeks from the time AATA receives your envelope.

AATA is useful if you live far from an AAA office or prefer to avoid membership. The cost and timeline are the same as AAA.

What Documents You Must Have Ready

Before you order, gather these items:

  • A valid U.S. driver's license (expired licenses do not work).
  • A color passport-style photo, 2x2 inches, taken within the last six months. You can get one at any pharmacy with a photo center, or at many AAA offices.
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency: a U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or green card.
  • Payment: $15 to $20 by credit card (online) or check/money order (by mail).

Do not order an IDP if your driver's license is expired or suspended. The permit is only valid when your license is valid. If your license expires soon, renew it first, then order the IDP.

How Long It Takes and When to Order

If you order online through AAA and choose mail delivery, expect the IDP to arrive in five to ten business days. If you visit an AAA office in person, you can leave with it the same day. AATA mail orders take one to two weeks from receipt.

Order at least two weeks before you travel if you are using mail delivery. If you need it faster, find an AAA office near you and go in person. If your trip is sooner than that and no AAA office is nearby, AATA is your only option, and you will need to mail your order when ready.

The IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue, so you do not need to renew it every time you travel. If you travel internationally more than once in three years, one IDP covers all your trips.

What Happens When You Travel With Your IDP

When you rent a car or drive in another country, carry both your U.S. driver's license and your IDP together. The IDP alone is not a license — it is only a translation and confirmation of your U.S. license. Some rental companies and border officials will ask for both documents.

The IDP does not change the driving laws of the country you are visiting. You must still follow local traffic rules, speed limits, and licensing requirements. Some countries have additional rules — for example, some require an International Driving Permit by law, while others do not recognize it at all. Check before you go.

Keep your IDP in a safe place while traveling, just as you would your passport. If it is lost or stolen, you can order a replacement through AAA or AATA using the same process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is expired?

No. Your IDP is only valid when your U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license is expired or about to expire, renew it with your state's DMV first, then order the IDP.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP by law, but some car rental companies request one. Check with your rental company before you book. Your valid U.S. driver's license is usually enough for these countries.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

You can still drive on your U.S. license alone in most countries. When you return home, order a replacement IDP through AAA or AATA using the same process. The replacement costs the same as the original.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

The cost is $15 to $20, depending on whether you are an AAA member and which issuer you use. AAA members sometimes pay slightly less. There are no hidden fees.

Can I order an International Driving Permit from my state's DMV?

No. Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue IDPs in the United States. Your state's DMV cannot issue one, even though they issue your driver's license.