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 and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together when driving abroad. The IDP tells police and rental car companies in other countries that your home license is legitimate, since many countries do not recognize U.S. licenses on their own.

You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car or drive in most countries outside the United States. Some countries require it by law; others make it optional but strongly recommended. A few nations (including Canada and Mexico) accept a U.S. license alone, though an IDP costs little and removes doubt. If you are unsure whether your destination requires one, contact the embassy or tourism board of the country you are visiting.

The IDP is issued in the United States by two organizations: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both issue the same document; the difference is where you go to get it and how long the process takes.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an International Driving Permit — the IDP cannot be issued on its own.
  • The IDP is available from AAA or AATA and costs between $15 and $20, depending on which organization you use and whether you are a AAA member.
  • You can get an IDP in person at an AAA office or AATA location, or by mail through AATA if you do not have a local office nearby.
  • The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be renewed if you plan to drive abroad again after that year ends.
  • You will need your valid driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo (2x2 inches) to obtain an IDP.

What You Need to Bring to Get an IDP

Before you visit an AAA office or AATA location, gather these documents: your valid U.S. driver's license, your passport or passport card, and one passport-style photograph that is 2 inches by 2 inches. The photo must be in color and taken within the last six months. If you do not have a recent passport photo, you can have one taken at most AAA offices, post offices, or drugstore photo centers for a small fee.

You do not need to bring your Social Security number, but having it available can speed up the process. Bring the original documents — photocopies are not accepted. If you are explore by mail through AATA, you will mail these items along with your completed process form. Keep copies of everything you send, in case questions arise during processing.

Getting an IDP Through AAA

If you are a AAA member, visit your local AAA office with your driver's license, passport, and photo. The staff will fill out the process form with you, verify your documents, and issue the IDP on the spot. The process takes about 15 to 20 minutes. AAA members typically pay $15 for the IDP.

If you are not a AAA member, you can still get an IDP at an AAA office, but the fee is usually $20. You do not need to join AAA to get the permit. To find your nearest AAA office, visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool, or call their customer service line. Many AAA offices are open on Saturdays, which can be convenient if you work during the week.

Getting an IDP Through AATA by Mail

AATA allows you to request an IDP by mail if you do not have an AAA office nearby or prefer not to visit in person. You will need to read and print the AATA process form from their website, fill it out completely, and mail it along with your driver's license, passport or passport card, and one 2x2 inch photo.

Mail your process to the AATA address listed on their form. Processing takes about two to four weeks from the date AATA receives your process. The fee is $15. AATA will mail the IDP back to you, and they will also return your original documents. Keep track of when you mail your process if you need the IDP by a specific travel date, and consider using certified mail so you have proof of delivery.

Getting an IDP in Person at AATA Locations

AATA also has physical locations in some cities where you can explore in person, though far fewer than AAA. Check the AATA website to see if there is a location near you. If there is, you can walk in with your documents and receive the IDP the same day, just as you would at an AAA office.

The fee and documents required are the same as the mail option — $15 and your driver's license, passport, and photo. In-person service at AATA locations is useful if you need the IDP quickly but do not have access to AAA, or if you prefer to hand over your documents in person rather than mailing them.

How Long an IDP Lasts and When to Renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If you plan to drive abroad again after that year, you will need to get a new IDP. You cannot renew an existing IDP — you must explore for a new one using the same process and documents.

Check the expiration date printed on your IDP before you travel. If it has expired, you will need to get a new one before you leave the country. Some rental car companies will refuse to rent to you if your IDP is expired, even if your U.S. license is still valid. Plan ahead if you know you will be traveling internationally in the future.

What to Do If You Lose Your IDP While Traveling

If your IDP is lost or stolen while you are abroad, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in that country. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide a letter confirming that you hold a valid U.S. driver's license. This letter can sometimes help with car rentals or police encounters, though it is not a substitute for the IDP itself.

To avoid this problem, make a photocopy of your IDP and store it separately from the original. Some travelers also photograph their IDP and email it to themselves so they can access it from anywhere. When you return to the United States, you can get a new IDP from AAA or AATA if you need one for future trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Canada and Mexico both accept a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, an IDP is still useful because it translates your license information and can prevent confusion with local police. Many travelers get one anyway for peace of mind, especially if they plan to rent a car.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. license is expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not expired when you explore for an IDP. If your license has expired, you must renew it at your state's DMV before you can get an IDP.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

The cost is $15 to $20 depending on whether you are a AAA member and which organization you use. AAA members pay $15; non-members pay $20 at AAA offices. AATA charges $15 whether you explore by mail or in person. Neither organization charges extra for rush processing.

What if I need an IDP but do not have a passport?

You need either a passport or a passport card to get an IDP. A passport card is smaller and cheaper than a full passport and works for this purpose. You can explore for a passport card at your local post office or passport acceptance facility.

Can I get an International Driving Permit at the DMV?

No. U.S. state DMVs do not issue International Driving Permits. You must go through AAA or AATA. This is true in every state.