What an International Driving Permit Is and Who Needs One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into ten languages and confirms you are a licensed driver in your home country. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. driver's license. You need one if you plan to rent a car or drive in most countries outside the United States.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both organizations are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. Most rental car companies abroad will not rent to you without one, and some countries require it by law. Even if not legally required, having one removes friction at rental counters and with police stops.

You do not need an IDP to drive in Canada, Mexico, or the U.S. territories. You also do not need one if you are not planning to drive — only to ride as a passenger.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA and costs between $15 and $20, plus a passport photo and your valid U.S. driver's license.
  • You can obtain one in person at an AAA office, by mail through AAA, or in person at an AATA office — the process takes minutes in person or one to two weeks by mail.
  • Your IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be carried with your U.S. driver's license at all times when driving abroad.
  • You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid, non-suspended driver's license from any U.S. state to obtain an IDP.

Requirements to Obtain an International Driving Permit

To get an IDP, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid U.S. driver's license from any state. Your license cannot be suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license is currently suspended or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP until your driving privileges are restored.

You will need to bring or submit a passport-style photo — typically 2 by 2 inches — and your valid driver's license. Some AAA offices accept digital photos taken on the spot; others require you to bring one. When explore by mail, you must include a new photo with your process. You do not need a passport to obtain an IDP, only a valid U.S. driver's license.

How to Obtain One Through AAA

AAA is the most common source for an IDP. If you are an AAA member, you can visit any AAA office in person. Bring your valid driver's license and a passport photo. The staff will complete the form, take your photo if needed, and issue the permit on the spot — the process takes about 10 minutes. The cost is $15 for AAA members.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still obtain an IDP through AAA by mail. Visit the AAA website, read the process form, and mail it with your driver's license copy, passport photo, and payment ($20 for non-members). AAA will process and return it within one to two weeks. You can also visit a local AAA office as a non-member and pay the higher fee for in-person issuance.

AAA offices are located in most U.S. cities. You can find the nearest one using the AAA office locator on their website. Call ahead to confirm they issue IDPs and their current hours, as not all offices handle this service.

How to Obtain One Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second authorized issuer. AATA does not have physical offices; you must explore by mail. read the process from the AATA website, include a copy of your valid driver's license, a passport photo, and a check or money order for $20. Mail the packet to the AATA address listed on the form.

AATA typically processes applications within one to two weeks. Once issued, they will mail the permit to your address. Keep your receipt or tracking number so you can follow up if the permit does not arrive within three weeks.

Cost and Validity Period

An International Driving Permit costs $15 if you obtain it in person at an AAA office as a member, or $20 if you are a non-member or explore by mail through AAA or AATA. There are no additional fees or hidden charges. Some AAA offices may charge a small fee for the passport photo if you do not bring one, but this is separate from the IDP fee itself.

Your IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued. It expires on the same calendar date one year later. You cannot renew an IDP — you must obtain a new one if you need it after expiration. If you are planning a trip more than a year away, wait to obtain your IDP closer to your travel date so it does not expire before you leave.

What to Do When You Travel

Always carry your IDP together with your valid U.S. driver's license. The IDP is not valid on its own — it is only a translation and confirmation document. If you are stopped by police or asked to rent a car, present both documents together. Some rental companies will ask to see the IDP first; others may not ask for it at all, but having it prevents disputes.

Keep both documents in a safe place while traveling. If your IDP is lost or stolen, you cannot obtain a replacement abroad — you would need to contact AAA or AATA from home. If your U.S. driver's license is lost, your IDP becomes useless, so protect both equally.

Different countries have different rules about what documents they accept. Some require the IDP by law; others accept it but do not require it. Before you travel, check the specific requirements of the country or countries you plan to visit. Your rental car company or the country's tourism board can tell you what is required.

If Your License Is Suspended or You Cannot Get One Locally

If your driver's license is currently suspended or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP until your driving privileges are restored. An IDP cannot be issued to someone who is not legally permitted to drive in the United States.

If you live in a state where obtaining a license is difficult or you are new to the country, you still need a valid U.S. driver's license to get an IDP. There is no workaround — the IDP is a translation of your existing license, not a replacement for one. If you do not yet have a U.S. license, you must obtain one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my license is about to expire?

Your license must be valid on the day you obtain the IDP. If it expires within a few weeks, renew your license first, then obtain the IDP. The IDP is valid for one year from its issue date, regardless of when your U.S. license expires, but your U.S. license must always be current when you drive.

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

No. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in Mexico may request one, so it does not hurt to have it. Check with your rental company before you travel.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling abroad?

You cannot obtain a replacement IDP outside the United States. If you lose it, you still have your U.S. driver's license, which is valid in most places. Contact your rental company or local authorities to explain the situation. In most cases, your U.S. license alone will be sufficient, though some countries may give you trouble.

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

Both AAA and AATA typically process mail applications within one to two weeks. Add time for mail delivery both ways — usually three to five business days each direction. If you need an IDP quickly, visit an AAA office in person for same-day issuance.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if I have an SR22 or other high-risk status?

Yes. An SR22 or other high-risk status does not prevent you from obtaining an IDP, as long as your license is not suspended or revoked. The IDP is issued based on your current license status, not your driving history. Bring your valid license and photo, and you can obtain one.