What an International Driving Permit Is and Why You Might Need One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It does not replace your license — you must carry both together. The IDP tells police, rental car companies, and border officials in other countries that you hold a valid U.S. license, without requiring them to interpret an English document.

You need an IDP if you plan to drive in most countries outside the United States. Some nations will not rent you a car without one, even if you have a valid U.S. license. Others do not legally require it but strongly recommend it. The IDP is inexpensive and takes minutes to obtain, so it is worth getting before you travel.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is one of two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs. The other is the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). AAA is the more widely available option — most AAA branches can issue one on the spot.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA issues International Driving Permits at most of its local branches, and you can receive one the same day you explore.
  • You must bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and proof of your current address to get an IDP from AAA.
  • An International Driving Permit costs around $20 and is valid for three years from the date of issue.
  • The IDP must be carried together with your U.S. driver's license at all times while driving abroad — one document alone is not sufficient.
  • AAA membership is not required to obtain an IDP, though members may receive a small discount on the fee.

Documents You Need to Bring to AAA

Before you visit an AAA branch, gather three pieces of identification and proof of address. First, bring your current valid U.S. driver's license — it must not be expired. Second, bring your passport or passport card. The IDP process requires proof that you are a U.S. citizen, and a passport is the standard way to show this.

Third, bring proof of your current address. This can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license with your current address printed on it may also work, though you should call your local AAA branch ahead of time to confirm what they accept.

You will also need to bring two passport-style photographs — 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months. Some AAA branches can take these photos on-site for an additional fee if you do not have them ready. Call ahead to ask whether your branch offers this service.

how the process works at Your Local AAA Branch

Find the AAA branch nearest you by visiting the AAA website and using their branch locator. Not every AAA office issues IDPs, so confirm that your branch offers this service before you go. You can call ahead or check online — most full-service branches do, but some smaller locations may not.

Walk in with your documents during business hours. There is no appointment needed in most cases, though you may wait 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the branch is. The staff will fill out a short form with your name, license number, and passport information. You will sign the form and provide your photographs.

Payment is due at the time of process. AAA accepts cash and card. The fee is typically around $20, though it varies slightly by location and may be lower for AAA members. You will receive your IDP when ready or within a few minutes — most branches print them on-site.

What Your IDP Covers and How Long It Lasts

Your International Driving Permit is valid for three years from the date it is issued. It covers you to drive in most countries that recognize the 1926 Geneva Convention on Motor Traffic, which includes most of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. A few countries do not recognize the IDP, so check the specific rules for each country you plan to visit before you travel.

The IDP is not a license itself — it is a translation document. It does not give you permission to drive in any country; that permission comes from your U.S. driver's license and the laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries require you to also carry an International Certificate of Competency or a certified translation of your license, so research the exact requirements for your destination.

If your U.S. driver's license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. You cannot renew an IDP — you must get a new one if you need it after your current one expires. If you get a new U.S. license before your IDP expires, you should get a new IDP as well, because the two documents must match.

Alternatives If You Cannot Visit an AAA Branch

If you do not have an AAA branch nearby or cannot visit in person, you have one other option: the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). AATA also issues IDPs and may offer mail-in service in some cases. Visit the AATA website to find out whether you can mail in your process and documents.

Mail-in service typically takes two to three weeks, so plan ahead if you choose this route. You will need to send originals or certified copies of your documents, and you will not receive your IDP the same day. This option is slower but may be your only choice if no AAA branch is within reasonable distance.

Some travel agencies and online services claim to issue IDPs, but they are not authorized by the U.S. State Department. Only AAA and AATA can issue a valid IDP. Be cautious of any other source, as an invalid permit will not be recognized abroad.

What to Do If Your IDP Is Lost or Damaged While Traveling

If you lose your IDP overseas, you can still drive using your U.S. driver's license alone, though you may face complications with rental car companies or police. Some countries will accept a U.S. license without the IDP, but others will not. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance on your specific situation.

You cannot get a replacement IDP while abroad. You will need to get a new one when you return to the United States by visiting an AAA branch or mailing an process to AATA. For this reason, it is wise to take a photo of your IDP with your phone before you travel, so you have proof of the document number if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car for a day trip?

It depends on the rental company and the country. Many rental agencies in Canada and Mexico will rent to you with just a U.S. license, but most European companies require an IDP. Check with your rental company before you book. Having an IDP costs little and prevents problems, so it is usually worth getting even for a short trip.

Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not suspended. If your license is expired, you must renew it first at your state's DMV before you can get an IDP. If your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is restored.

Is AAA membership required to get an IDP?

No. You do not have to be an AAA member to get an IDP. Non-members pay the full fee, while members may receive a small discount. Either way, the process is the same — bring your documents to an AAA branch and receive your IDP the same day.

What if the country I am visiting does not recognize the IDP?

A few countries do not recognize the 1926 Geneva Convention and may not accept an IDP. In these cases, you may need an International Certificate of Competency or a certified translation of your U.S. license. Research the specific requirements for each country you plan to visit before you travel, and contact that country's embassy if you are unsure.

Can I renew my IDP before it expires?

No. You cannot renew an IDP — you must get a new one. If your current IDP is still valid but you need a new one for any reason, you can explore for a replacement at an AAA branch. You will pay the full fee again, and you will receive a new document with a new expiration date.