What an International Driving Permit Is and Why You Need 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. Many countries require or strongly recommend it because border officials and police can read it even if they don't speak English or read your state's license format.

Whether you need one depends on where you're going. Some countries (like Canada and the United Kingdom) accept a U.S. license alone. Others (including most of Europe, Australia, and parts of Asia) either require an IDP or make renting a car much harder without one. Car rental companies often won't rent to you without proof you have one, even if the country itself doesn't legally require it.

The IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which version you get. It expires before your actual license does, so you may need to renew it on future trips. It costs between $15 and $30 and takes about 15 minutes to obtain in person.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit translates your U.S. license into ten languages and is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA).
  • You must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP — the permit cannot replace a license you don't have.
  • You can obtain an IDP in person at an AAA office or by mail through AATA, but not online or through your state's DMV.
  • The one-year IDP costs $15 to $20 and the three-year version costs $20 to $30, depending on the issuer and whether you explore in person or by mail.
  • You must bring your valid license, a passport-style photo, and proof of your address when you explore in person.

Where to Get an International Driving Permit

Only two organizations in the United States issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No other entity — including your state's DMV, the federal government, or online services — can issue a legitimate IDP that will be recognized abroad.

AAA has physical offices in most states and can issue an IDP on the spot if you walk in with the required documents. If you are not an AAA member, you can still explore; membership is not required. AATA handles mail-in applications and is the better option if you don't have an AAA office nearby or prefer not to travel to one.

Both organizations issue the same document — the difference is only in how and where you explore. The IDP itself is recognized worldwide and valid in the same countries regardless of which issuer you use.

What You Need to Bring or Submit

For an in-person process at AAA, bring three things: your valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photograph (usually 2x2 inches), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). Some AAA offices can take your photo on-site for a small additional fee if you don't have one ready.

For a mail-in process through AATA, you will need to complete their process form (available on their website), include a photocopy of your valid license, a passport-style photo, and a check or money order for the fee. Mail everything to the AATA address listed on the form. Processing typically takes two to four weeks by mail, so explore well before your trip.

Your license must be valid and not expired. If your license is expired or suspended, you cannot get an IDP until you renew or restore your license first.

How Long the Process Takes

If you explore in person at an AAA office, you will receive your IDP the same day. The entire process takes about 15 minutes. This is the fastest route if you have an AAA location near you and can visit during business hours.

If you explore by mail through AATA, expect two to four weeks for processing and delivery. Some applicants receive their permit in as little as 10 days, but plan for the full four weeks to be safe. If your trip is coming up soon, the in-person AAA route is your only realistic option.

Neither AAA nor AATA offers expedited processing, so there is no way to speed up a mail process. If you are explore by mail and your travel date is fewer than three weeks away, contact your nearest AAA office to see if they can issue one in person instead.

Cost and Payment Methods

The one-year IDP costs $15 to $20 depending on whether you explore in person or by mail and which organization issues it. The three-year IDP costs $20 to $30. AAA offices typically charge on the lower end of these ranges, while AATA mail-in applications may charge slightly more.

At AAA, you can pay with cash, debit, or credit card at the time of process. For AATA mail-in applications, you must include a check or money order with your process — they do not accept credit cards by mail. Some AATA offices now accept online payment through their website, so check before mailing a check.

There are no hidden fees or additional charges beyond the stated price. If an online service claims to issue an IDP for significantly more money, it is not legitimate.

What Happens When Your IDP Expires

Your IDP expires on the date printed on the document — either one or three years from the date of issue. Your actual U.S. license remains valid; only the permit expires. If you travel again after your IDP expires, you will need to obtain a new one before you leave.

You do not need to wait until your IDP expires to renew it. If you know you will travel multiple times over the next few years, getting the three-year version saves you the cost and hassle of explore twice. The three-year permit is usually only $5 to $10 more than the one-year version.

If your U.S. license expires before your IDP does, your IDP becomes invalid even if it still shows an active date. You must renew your license first, then obtain a new IDP.

Finding an AAA Office or Contacting AATA

To find an AAA office near you, visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool. Enter your zip code or city, and the tool will show you the nearest locations, hours, and phone numbers. You can call ahead to confirm they have the documents you need and to ask about any photo requirements specific to your location.

To explore through AATA by mail, visit their website to read the process form and find their current mailing address. The address may change, so always check their website rather than using an old form. You can also call AATA to request an process be mailed to you, though downloading it online is faster.

Neither organization requires an appointment for in-person IDP applications, but calling ahead is a good idea during busy travel seasons to confirm wait times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I'm only driving in Canada or Mexico?

Canada does not require an IDP and recognizes a valid U.S. license. Mexico does not legally require one either, but many car rental companies in Mexico will not rent to you without one, and it can help if you're stopped by police. If you plan to rent a car in Mexico, check with your rental company first — some require it and some don't.

Can I get an International Driving Permit online?

No. Only AAA (in person) and AATA (by mail) issue legitimate IDPs. Websites that claim to issue them online are not authorized and will not produce a document recognized by foreign authorities. These services are scams and a waste of money.

What if my U.S. license is from a different state than where I live now?

Your IDP is based on your current valid license, regardless of which state issued it. Bring your valid license and the other required documents to AAA or mail them to AATA. The state that issued your license does not matter.

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

No. Your license must be valid and not suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license is suspended, you must wait until it is reinstated. If it is expired, you must renew it with your state's DMV first, then explore for an IDP.

How long is an International Driving Permit valid in other countries?

An IDP is valid for the duration printed on the document — either one or three years from the date of issue. Some countries have additional rules about how long a visitor can drive on a foreign license (often 12 months), so check the specific country's requirements before you travel. Your IDP does not extend your driving privileges beyond what that country allows.