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. Some rental companies abroad will not hand over keys without one, even if your U.S. license is valid. A few countries require it by law; most do not, but having one removes the friction at the rental counter and with police if you are stopped.

An IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). These are the only 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 from a third-party website — those are scams.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA, the two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department, and costs between $15 and $20.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license in your possession when you explore in person at an AAA or AATA office.
  • You need one passport-style photo (2x2 inches) and must be at least 18 years old to hold an IDP.
  • An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and does not renew — you must get a new one each time you travel abroad.
  • The permit is a translation document only and does not replace your state license; you must carry both when driving outside the U.S.

Where to explore for an International Driving Permit

You explore in person at an AAA office or an AATA office. AAA has thousands of locations across the country, mostly in shopping centers and downtown areas. AATA has fewer locations but covers all 50 states. You can find your nearest office on the AAA website (aaa.com) or the AATA website (aataidp.com).

Some AAA offices accept walk-ins; others require an appointment. Call ahead or check the office's hours online before you go. The process takes about 15 minutes if you have all your documents ready.

You cannot explore by mail, phone, or online through AAA or AATA directly. Third-party websites that claim to process IDPs for higher fees are not legitimate — they may take your money and send you a worthless document, or send nothing at all.

Documents and Information You Need to Bring

Bring your valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license. This is the only document required. The IDP is a translation of your license, so your license must be current and in your name.

Bring one passport-style photograph, 2 inches by 2 inches. This is the same size photo used for passports. You can get photos taken at most AAA offices for a small fee, or bring one you already have. The photo must be recent (taken within the last six months), in color or black and white, and show your face clearly against a plain background.

Bring cash or a card to pay the fee. AAA and AATA both accept major credit cards and cash. The cost is typically $15 to $20, depending on the office and whether you are an AAA member. AAA members sometimes receive a small discount.

Age Requirements and License Status

You must be at least 18 years old to hold an International Driving Permit. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not expired. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP.

Your license must also be a full, unrestricted license — not a learner's permit or a restricted license. If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), you can get an IDP, but it will be valid only for the class of vehicle your CDL permits.

If your license is in a different name than your passport or other travel documents (for example, if you recently married and changed your name), bring both your license and a document showing the name change. The IDP will be issued in the name on your driver's license.

How Long an International Driving Permit Lasts

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. It does not renew automatically. When your IDP expires, you must explore for a new one if you plan to drive abroad again.

Your IDP expires even if your U.S. driver's license does not. You could have a valid license but an expired IDP, in which case you would need a new IDP before driving outside the country. Conversely, if your U.S. license expires while your IDP is still valid, the IDP becomes invalid because it is tied to your license.

Some countries recognize IDPs for longer than one year, but the U.S. does not issue them beyond that period. If you travel frequently or for extended periods, plan to renew your IDP before each trip.

What Happens When You Drive Abroad With Your IDP

When you rent a car or drive in another country, carry both your U.S. driver's license and your International Driving Permit together. Police or rental agents may ask to see both. The IDP is a translation aid — it explains what your U.S. license says in languages the other country understands, but your actual license is what proves you are licensed to drive.

Some countries have specific rules about which documents you must carry. A few require the IDP by law; most do not. Before you travel, check the driving requirements for the specific country you are visiting. Your car rental company can tell you what they require, and your travel insurance or guidebook may list the country's rules.

An IDP does not give you the right to drive in another country if you would not otherwise have that right. It does not override local traffic laws, age restrictions, or vehicle registration rules. It is a translation document, not a license.

International Driving Permits vs. Other Travel Documents

Do not confuse an International Driving Permit with an international license or a temporary license. Some countries issue their own temporary driving licenses to visitors; those are separate from the IDP and are obtained in that country, not in the U.S. An IDP is issued only by AAA or AATA and is recognized in over 150 countries.

An IDP is also not the same as a passport or visa. You need a valid passport to enter most countries, and some countries require a visa. An IDP is for driving only and does not help you cross a border or prove your identity for travel purposes.

If you are moving to another country or planning to live abroad, you may need to get a local driver's license in that country after a certain period. An IDP is meant for temporary visits and short-term travel, not relocation.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation and renew your license if it has expired.

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 ask for one. It is not necessary for driving, but having one can make the rental process smoother. Check with your rental company before you travel.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact the AAA or AATA office where you obtained it and ask about a replacement. You may be able to get a duplicate issued, though this depends on the office's policies. Keep a photo or copy of your IDP separate from the original in case you lose it.

Can I renew my International Driving Permit by mail or online?

No. You must explore in person at an AAA or AATA office each time. There is no mail-in or online renewal process. When your IDP expires, you start the process process over.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as a license to drive in another country?

No. An IDP is a translation of your U.S. license, not a separate license. It does not give you permission to drive in another country if you would not otherwise have it. You must still follow that country's driving laws and age requirements.