What an International Driving Permit is and whether you need one

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your Florida driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid Florida license, and only in countries that recognize it. You need both documents together.

You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car or drive in another country. Some car rental companies outside the United States will not rent to you without one, even if your Florida license is valid. A few countries legally require it. Most European nations, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Mexico recognize it. Some countries do not — check with your destination country's embassy or your rental company before you travel.

If you are only visiting another country as a passenger, or if you will not be driving, you do not need an IDP. If you are moving to another country permanently, an IDP will not help you — you will need to obtain a local license instead.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) in Florida, not by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
  • You must have a valid Florida driver's license before you can get an IDP, and the IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which you choose.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 and takes about 15 minutes to obtain in person at an AAA office, or you can order by mail.
  • You need to bring your valid Florida driver's license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photo to get an IDP.
  • An IDP does not replace your Florida license and is not valid without it — you must carry both documents when driving abroad.

Who issues International Driving Permits in Florida

The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue International Driving Permits in the United States. In Florida, AAA is the primary issuer and has offices throughout the state. AATA also issues them but has fewer locations.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles does not issue IDPs. You cannot get one at a DMV office or through the mail from the state. You must go to an AAA or AATA office in person, or order by mail through AAA.

AAA membership is not required to get an IDP, though AAA members sometimes receive a small discount. You can walk into any AAA office in Florida without a membership and purchase one.

Documents and information you need to bring

You will need your valid Florida driver's license. The license must not be expired, suspended, or revoked. If your license is expired, you must renew it with the Florida DMV before you can get an IDP.

You will need a completed IDP process form. AAA provides this form at their offices or online. You can fill it out before you arrive or fill it out on site — most offices have copies available.

You will need one passport-style photograph. This is a 2-by-2-inch color or black-and-white photo taken within the last six months. You can have one taken at most AAA offices for an additional fee, or bring one you already have. The photo must show your face clearly, with a plain background, and you must be looking directly at the camera.

Bring your payment method. AAA offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. The cost is typically $15 for a one-year IDP or $20 for a three-year IDP, though prices vary slightly by location.

How to get an IDP in person at an AAA office

Find the nearest AAA office to you using the AAA website or by calling 1-800-AAA-HELP. AAA has more than 30 offices across Florida. Walk in during business hours — no appointment is needed, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

Tell the staff member you want an International Driving Permit. Hand over your valid Florida driver's license, your completed process form, and your passport-style photo. The staff member will verify that your license is valid and that your photo meets the requirements.

Pay the fee — $15 for one year or $20 for three years. You will receive your IDP when ready, usually within 15 minutes. The IDP is a small booklet about the size of a passport. Check it on the spot to make sure your name, license number, and photo are correct before you leave.

How to get an IDP by mail through AAA

You can order an IDP by mail if you cannot visit an AAA office in person. Go to the AAA website and read the International Driving Permit process form. Fill it out completely and sign it.

Gather your valid Florida driver's license, a passport-style photo, and your payment. Make a photocopy of the front and back of your license — do not send the original. Mail the photocopy, the completed process form, your photo, and a check or money order to the AAA address listed on the form.

Processing by mail takes two to four weeks. Your IDP will be mailed to the address you provide on the process. You will not receive a tracking number, so allow extra time if you are traveling soon. If you need an IDP urgently, visit an office in person instead.

How long an IDP is valid and what to do when it expires

You choose the validity period when you purchase your IDP. A one-year IDP costs $15 and is valid for one year from the date of issue. A three-year IDP costs $20 and is valid for three years from the date of issue. The expiration date is printed on the front of your IDP booklet.

An IDP is valid only while your Florida driver's license is also valid. If your Florida license expires, is suspended, or is revoked, your IDP becomes invalid even if the IDP itself has not expired. You must renew your Florida license before your IDP will work again.

When your IDP expires, you must purchase a new one. You cannot renew an existing IDP — you must go through the entire process again with a new process, photo, and fee. If you are traveling frequently, the three-year IDP is usually the better value.

What to do if you lose or damage your IDP while traveling

If your IDP is lost, stolen, or damaged while you are outside the United States, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They can provide a letter confirming that you hold a valid Florida driver's license, which some rental companies and police officers will accept in place of the physical IDP.

When you return to Florida, you will need to purchase a replacement IDP. There is no expedited replacement process — you must follow the same steps as a new purchase. Bring your valid Florida driver's license, a new process form, a new passport-style photo, and the fee to an AAA office.

If your IDP was damaged by the rental car company or airline, keep the damaged booklet and bring it with you when you purchase the replacement. Some AAA offices may waive the fee if you can show proof of damage, though this is not may provide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in another country with just my Florida license and no IDP?

It depends on the country. Most countries recognize a valid U.S. driver's license on its own, but some require an IDP or will not rent you a car without one. Check with your destination country's embassy, your rental car company, or your travel insurance provider before you leave. Carrying an IDP costs little and removes the risk of being turned away.

Do I need an IDP if I am only driving in Canada or Mexico?

Canada does not require an IDP, and your Florida license alone is sufficient. Mexico recognizes IDPs but does not legally require one — however, Mexican car rental companies often will not rent without one. If you are renting a car in Mexico, ask the rental company in advance whether they require an IDP.

What happens if my Florida license expires while I am traveling with my IDP?

Your IDP becomes invalid when ready when your Florida license expires, even if the IDP booklet itself has not expired. You cannot drive legally with an expired Florida license, regardless of whether you have an IDP. Renew your Florida license before you travel, or plan your trip so you return before your license expires.

Is an IDP the same as an International License?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document issued by AAA or AATA. An "International License" is not a real document — it is a scam. Do not purchase an "International License" from any website or service. Your Florida license and an IDP from AAA or AATA are all you need.

Can I get an IDP if my Florida license is suspended or revoked?

No. Your Florida license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted or your license is reinstated. Contact the Florida DMV to find out how to restore your driving privileges.