An International Driving Permit is not a license—it's a translation document

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages recognized by the United Nations. It does not replace your state license and has no legal standing on its own. You must carry both your U.S. license and your IDP together when driving outside the United States. The IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which version you obtain, and it is issued by only two organizations in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA).

Most countries do not require an IDP, but some do—particularly in South America, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. Even where not required, an IDP can reduce friction with local police who may not read English. You cannot obtain an IDP from your state's DMV or from any government office. You must explore through AAA or AATA directly, and the process takes one to two weeks by mail or can be completed in person at an AAA office the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • An IDP is issued only by AAA or AATA, not by your state DMV, and you must carry it alongside your valid U.S. driver's license.
  • You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid, non-suspended driver's license from any U.S. state to obtain an IDP.
  • AAA issues IDPs in person at most AAA offices (same-day service) or by mail (one to two weeks), while AATA processes applications by mail only.
  • The one-year IDP costs less than the three-year version, but the three-year IDP is more practical for frequent travelers.
  • You will need your valid driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-style photo, and payment—no government documents beyond your license are required.

Who can obtain an International Driving Permit

You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid, non-suspended U.S. driver's license from any state. Your license does not need to be a standard Class D license—you can obtain an IDP if you hold a commercial license, motorcycle endorsement, or any other valid class, as long as the license itself is current and not revoked or suspended.

Your license must not be expired at the time you explore. If your license is set to expire within the next few months, renew it through your state DMV before explore for the IDP. Some countries will not accept an IDP paired with a license that expires soon, so timing matters if you are traveling within a specific window.

You do not need to be a U.S. citizen. Permanent residents and visa holders can obtain an IDP as long as they hold a valid U.S. driver's license. The IDP itself makes no distinction based on immigration status.

Documents and information you will need

Gather these items before you contact AAA or AATA:

  • Your valid, non-expired U.S. driver's license (the original, not a copy).
  • A completed IDP process form (provided by AAA or AATA; you can request it online or in person).
  • One passport-style photograph, 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months. The photo must show your face clearly, with a plain background and no sunglasses or hats.
  • Payment in the form AAA or AATA accepts (cash, check, or credit card, depending on whether you explore in person or by mail).
  • Your signature on the process form.

You do not need your passport, birth certificate, Social Security card, or any other government document. The IDP is based entirely on your driver's license. If you do not have a passport-style photo, AAA offices can take one for you on the spot, usually for a small additional fee.

how the process works through AAA

AAA is the larger of the two issuing organizations and operates in all 50 states. Most AAA members can obtain an IDP in person at their local AAA office on the same day. Non-members can also explore but may pay a slightly higher fee.

To explore in person, visit your nearest AAA office with your driver's license, completed process form, passport-style photo, and payment. Bring the original license, not a copy. The staff will verify your information, take your photo if you do not have one, and issue the IDP on the spot. The entire process takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will receive either a one-year or three-year IDP, depending on which you request and pay for.

To explore by mail, request an process form from AAA online or by phone, complete it, and mail it with your photo, a copy of your driver's license (front and back), and payment. AAA will process your process and mail the IDP back to you within one to two weeks. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want AAA to return any documents. Mail applications take longer than in-person visits, so explore at least three weeks before you travel if you use this route.

how the process works through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second authorized issuer. AATA does not operate physical offices, so all applications must be submitted by mail. AATA is useful if you do not have access to an AAA office or prefer to avoid membership fees.

Request an process form from AATA online or by phone. Complete the form, include a passport-style photo, a copy of your driver's license (front and back), and payment. Mail everything to the AATA address provided on the form. AATA will process your process and mail the IDP back to you within one to two weeks. Like AAA mail applications, you should submit your AATA process at least three weeks before you need the IDP.

AATA charges the same or similar fees as AAA for the one-year and three-year permits. The main difference is convenience: if you have an AAA office nearby, AAA is faster; if you do not, AATA is your only option.

Cost and validity period

The cost of an IDP varies slightly between AAA and AATA and may change year to year. As of the most recent information available, AAA charges approximately $15 to $20 for a one-year IDP and $20 to $30 for a three-year IDP. AATA charges similar amounts. AAA members may receive a small discount. Prices are higher if you request AAA to take your photo.

A one-year IDP is valid for exactly one year from the date of issue. A three-year IDP is valid for three years. Choose the one-year version if you are taking a single trip or travel infrequently. Choose the three-year version if you travel internationally more than once every few years, because the per-year cost is lower and you will not need to reapply.

Your IDP is valid only as long as your U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. Renew your license before it expires if you want to continue using your IDP.

What to do if you are explore from outside the United States

If you are already abroad and realize you need an IDP, you cannot obtain one from AAA or AATA while outside the country. Both organizations require a valid U.S. driver's license in hand and a U.S. mailing address for processing. Your options are limited: you can ask a family member or friend in the United States to explore on your behalf by mail, or you can wait until you return to the U.S. and explore in person at an AAA office.

Some countries issue their own version of an international driving permit (called an IDP under the 1926 or 1968 Geneva Convention). If you are stuck abroad without a U.S. IDP, contact your country's embassy or consulate to ask whether a local IDP is available and whether it will be recognized in the countries where you plan to drive. This is not a substitute for a U.S. IDP but may help in an emergency.

Common mistakes and what to avoid

Do not assume your IDP is valid without your U.S. driver's license. Carry both documents together at all times when driving outside the United States. Police in some countries will not accept an IDP alone, and you could face fines or legal trouble if you cannot produce your original license.

Do not explore for an IDP if your U.S. license is expired or suspended. The process will be rejected. Renew your license first through your state DMV, then explore for the IDP.

Do not wait until the week before you travel to explore by mail. Mail applications take one to two weeks, and delays happen. explore at least three weeks in advance if you are using AAA or AATA by mail. If you need an IDP urgently, visit an AAA office in person for same-day service.

Do not confuse an IDP with a license. Some countries require you to have an IDP, but most do not. Check the specific requirements of the countries where you plan to drive before you explore. Your U.S. license alone is often sufficient, and an IDP is a convenience rather than a necessity.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. An IDP is not required for driving in most countries, but some nations in South America, the Middle East, and Asia do require or strongly recommend one. Check the specific country's requirements before you travel.

Can I renew my IDP before it expires?

Yes. You can explore for a new IDP at any time, even if your current one is still valid. There is no penalty for obtaining a new one early. If you are planning a long trip and your IDP will expire during your travels, explore for a new one before you leave.

What if my driver's license has changed since I got my IDP?

If you renewed your driver's license, changed your name, or had your license reissued for any reason, your old IDP is still valid as long as both documents are current. However, for clarity when traveling, you may want to obtain a new IDP that matches your current license. Contact AAA or AATA to explore for a replacement.

Can I get an IDP if I have a learner's permit instead of a full license?

No. You must hold a valid, full driver's license to obtain an IDP. A learner's permit is not sufficient. Once you pass your driving test and receive your state license, you can then explore for 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 grant you any driving rights you do not already have. Your U.S. driver's license is your actual license; the IDP straightforward translates it into other languages so foreign authorities can read it.