International Driving Permit Cost and Where to Buy One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) costs between $15 and $30 in the United States, depending on which organization issues it. The American Automobile Association (AAA) charges around $20 for a permit valid for one year, or $30 for one valid for three years. The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) charges similar amounts. You cannot buy an IDP from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles — only these two private organizations are authorized to issue them in the U.S.

The permit itself is a small booklet that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It does not replace your license and has no value without it. You must carry both documents together when driving in another country. The IDP is recognized in over 150 countries and is useful in places where officials may not read English or may be unfamiliar with your state's license format.

You can obtain an IDP in person at most AAA or AATA offices, or by mail. In-person service is usually same-day or next-day. Mail service takes one to two weeks. Some AAA locations offer expedited mail service for an additional fee, typically $5 to $10.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit costs $15 to $30 depending on validity length and issuing organization, with AAA and AATA being the only authorized U.S. providers.
  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license to obtain an IDP, and you must carry both documents together when driving abroad.
  • In-person service at AAA or AATA offices is usually available same-day or next-day, while mail service takes one to two weeks.
  • An IDP is valid for one to three years depending on which version you purchase, and it translates your license information into ten languages for use in over 150 countries.

What You Need to Bring to Get an IDP

To obtain an IDP in person, bring your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and payment. Some AAA locations accept photos taken on the spot for an additional fee, usually $10 to $15. You do not need an appointment at most locations, but calling ahead is wise during busy times.

If you are explore by mail, you will need to send a completed process form (available on the AAA or AATA website), a photocopy of your driver's license, a passport-style photo, and a check or money order. Do not send cash. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want the IDP returned by mail. Processing time is typically one to two weeks from the date they receive your materials.

How Long an IDP Lasts

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which version you purchase. The one-year permit costs around $15 to $20, and the three-year permit costs around $25 to $30. Choose based on how often you plan to drive internationally. If you travel abroad regularly, the three-year option offers better value per year.

Your IDP expires on the date printed on the booklet, not when your driver's license expires. You can renew it before it expires by returning to the same organization with a new process, photo, and payment. If your driver's license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid — you must have a current license to use it.

When You Actually Need an IDP

An IDP is not required in every country. Many nations accept a valid U.S. driver's license on its own, especially in Canada, Mexico, and most of Western Europe. However, some countries require an IDP, and others strongly recommend it. The safest approach is to check the specific requirements for each country you plan to visit before you travel.

An IDP is most useful in countries where English is not widely spoken or where officials may be unfamiliar with U.S. license formats. It can also help if you are stopped by police and the officer does not read English. Some car rental companies in certain countries may also request an IDP, even if it is not legally required.

IDP vs. Your Regular Driver's License

Your U.S. driver's license is a legal document issued by your state that proves you are authorized to drive. An IDP is a translation document issued by a private organization — it is not a license itself and does not grant you any driving rights. Think of it as a companion to your license, not a replacement.

You cannot drive legally with only an IDP. You must always carry your valid U.S. driver's license when driving abroad. The IDP straightforward makes it easier for foreign officials to understand the information on your license. If you lose your IDP while traveling, you can still drive legally with your U.S. license alone in most places, though you may want to contact AAA or AATA to report the loss and request a replacement when you return home.

Getting an IDP Before You Travel

Plan to obtain your IDP at least two weeks before your trip if you are ordering by mail. If you are traveling sooner, visit an AAA or AATA office in person for same-day or next-day service. Many travelers get their IDP a few weeks before departure to avoid last-minute stress, even though it only takes a few minutes to complete in person.

Check the AAA or AATA website to find an office near you and confirm their hours. Some locations have limited hours or may be closed on certain days. If you cannot reach a local office, you can order by mail from either organization's national office — the address is on their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Canada and Mexico both accept a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies may request one, so it is worth checking with your rental agency before you travel. An IDP does not hurt and may smooth the process, but it is not legally required in either country.

Can I get an IDP from my state's DMV?

No. Only the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are authorized to issue IDPs in the United States. Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles cannot issue one, even though they issue your driver's license.

What if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

If your IDP expires during your trip, you can still drive legally with your valid U.S. driver's license alone in most countries. However, you may want to renew your IDP before you leave home to avoid any complications. Contact AAA or AATA after you return to request a replacement if needed.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document, not a license. It does not give you any driving rights on its own. A true international license does not exist in the U.S. system — you drive on your state's license, and the IDP straightforward translates it for foreign officials.

Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and current to obtain an IDP. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored and active again.