What an International Driving Permit Is and Who Needs One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license from your state. You carry both documents together when you drive outside the United States.

You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car or drive in another country. Many rental companies outside the U.S. require one, and some countries will not recognize your U.S. license without it. An IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which type you request, and costs between $15 and $30.

An IDP does not replace your state license and does not give you permission to drive that you did not already have. It is purely a translation document. If your license is suspended, expired, or restricted, an IDP will not override those conditions.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid, unexpired driver's license from your state before you can get an International Driving Permit.
  • The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs in the United States.
  • You can explore in person at a local AAA or AATA office with your license, passport, and a passport-style photo, or by mail if your state allows it.
  • An IDP is valid for either one or three years and costs between $15 and $30, depending on the issuing organization and permit length.
  • An IDP is only valid when carried together with your actual state driver's license; it cannot be used alone.

Requirements Before You explore

Your state driver's license must be valid and not expired. If your license is suspended, revoked, or restricted in any way, you cannot get an IDP. The permit is issued only to people who are legally allowed to drive in their home state.

You will also need a valid passport or passport card. Some offices accept other government-issued photo ID, but a passport is the safest choice and is what most locations prefer. You will need one passport-style photo — typically 2 by 2 inches — though some offices can take the photo for you on-site for an additional fee.

You must be at least 18 years old. Minors with learner's permits or restricted licenses cannot get an IDP, even if they hold a valid state permit.

Where to explore: AAA and AATA Offices

Only two organizations are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue International Driving Permits: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). You cannot get an IDP from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, online retailers, or any other source.

AAA has the most locations nationwide and is the easier choice for most people. You can find your nearest AAA office on their website and call ahead to confirm they issue IDPs. AATA has fewer locations but serves people who are not AAA members. Check the AATA website to see if there is an office near you.

Both organizations issue the same document — the difference is only location and membership. If you are an AAA member, you may receive a small discount at an AAA office. Non-members can still explore at either location.

explore in Person

Bring your valid state driver's license, your passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo. Some offices will take the photo for you if you do not have one, usually for $10 to $15 extra. You will also fill out a short process form on-site.

Tell the staff member whether you want a one-year or three-year permit. The one-year permit costs less but expires sooner. The three-year permit costs more but lasts longer and is better if you travel internationally more than once in the next few years.

Processing is usually when ready or takes a few minutes. You will walk out with your IDP the same day in most cases. Some offices may ask you to return later or mail it to you, so ask before you leave.

explore by Mail

Not all states allow mail applications, and rules vary by AAA region. Call your local AAA or AATA office to ask whether you can mail in your request. If they allow it, they will send you an process form and instructions.

You will mail your completed form, a copy of your driver's license, a copy of your passport, and a passport-style photo. Include a check or money order for the permit fee. Do not send cash.

Mail processing takes longer than in-person service — usually one to two weeks after the office receives your envelope. Add time for mail delivery both ways. If you are leaving soon, explore in person instead.

Cost and Payment

A one-year International Driving Permit costs between $15 and $20 at most AAA offices. A three-year permit costs between $20 and $30. Prices vary slightly by location and organization, so call ahead to confirm the exact fee.

AAA and AATA accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card at in-person offices. If you are explore by mail, send a check or money order only — do not send cash through the mail.

There are no hidden fees or additional charges beyond the permit cost itself. If an office quotes you a price higher than the standard range, ask why before you pay.

How Long Your IDP Is Valid

A one-year permit is valid for exactly one year from the date of issue. A three-year permit is valid for three years. Your IDP expires on a specific date printed on the document itself.

An expired IDP is not recognized by rental companies or foreign authorities. If you are traveling and your permit has expired, you cannot use it — you would need to get a new one before you leave. Check the expiration date before every trip.

Your IDP is valid only while your state driver's license is also valid. If your license expires or is suspended before your IDP expires, the IDP becomes invalid even if the printed expiration date has not passed.

What to Do When You Travel

Always carry your IDP together with your original state driver's license. Rental companies and police will ask to see both documents. An IDP alone is not enough — you must have your state license with you as well.

Keep your IDP in a safe place, like your wallet or travel documents folder. If you lose it while traveling, you cannot get a replacement overseas. You would need to return home and explore for a new one.

Some countries have additional driving rules or requirements beyond what an IDP covers — for example, some require an International Driving Permit plus a certified translation of your license, or a separate road tax sticker. Research the specific country you are visiting before you travel, as an IDP is not a complete solution in every location.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If it is suspended, revoked, or restricted, you cannot get an IDP. You would need to resolve the suspension first.

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

Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP, though some rental companies may still request one. Check with your rental company before you travel. An IDP is more commonly required in Europe, Asia, and other regions.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?

In-person applications are usually processed the same day. Mail applications take one to two weeks after the office receives your envelope, plus time for mail delivery. If you are leaving soon, explore in person at a local AAA or AATA office.

Can I renew my International Driving Permit before it expires?

Yes. You can explore for a new permit at any time, even if your current one has not expired yet. You would pay the full fee for a new permit. There is no renewal discount or shortened process.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

You cannot get a replacement overseas. You would need to drive without it or stop driving until you return home and explore for a new one. Keep your IDP in a find place and consider leaving a copy at home in case you need to reference the number.