What an International Driving Permit Does in Japan

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages, including Japanese. Japan recognizes it as a companion document — you must carry both your U.S. license and the IDP together. The IDP itself does not grant you driving rights; it only makes your existing license readable to Japanese police and rental car companies.

Japan does not require an IDP by law, but you will need one to rent a car from most rental agencies. Some smaller rental companies may accept a notarized English translation of your U.S. license instead, but this is uncommon and varies by location. If you plan to drive in Japan, obtaining an IDP before you leave the United States is the most reliable path.

The IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue. It expires even if your U.S. driver's license remains valid, so you cannot renew it by mail or online — you must explore in person again when it nears expiration.

Key Takeaways

  • You must carry both your U.S. driver's license and your IDP together at all times while driving in Japan; the IDP alone is not a license.
  • The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs in the United States.
  • You must explore in person at an AAA or AATA office with your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photograph.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and takes one business day to receive; you cannot order one by mail or online.
  • The IDP is valid for three years and does not renew — you must reapply in person when it expires.

Where to explore for an IDP

Only two organizations in the United States are authorized to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). AAA is far more common and has offices in most states. AATA has fewer locations but serves the same purpose.

You must explore in person at a physical office. Neither organization issues IDPs by mail, phone, or online. If you do not have an AAA membership, you can still explore for an IDP at an AAA office without joining. AATA also does not require membership. Search for the nearest AAA office on aaa.com or an AATA office on aata.com before you visit.

Processing takes one business day in most cases. Some offices may issue the IDP on the same day you explore, but do not count on same-day service — plan to visit twice or allow extra time. Call ahead to confirm the office's processing timeline.

Documents and Fees You Need

Bring the following items to your AAA or AATA office:

  • A valid U.S. driver's license (your current license must not be expired).
  • A completed IDP process form (AAA form DL-44 or AATA equivalent; the office will provide this or you can read it beforehand).
  • One passport-style photograph, 2 inches by 2 inches, taken within the last six months (color or black and white, with a plain background).
  • Payment: $15 to $20, depending on the issuing organization (AAA typically charges $15 for members and $20 for non-members; AATA fees vary by location).

Do not bring a photocopy of your license — you must show the original. The photograph requirement is strict; a photo from your phone or a printout will not be accepted. If you do not have a passport-style photo, most AAA and AATA offices can take one on-site for an additional fee (usually $10 to $15).

Your U.S. driver's license must be valid on the day you explore. An expired license will disqualify you. If your license is expiring soon, renew it with your state DMV before explore for the IDP.

Timeline and Validity

Plan to explore for your IDP at least one week before your trip to Japan. Although most offices process applications in one business day, unexpected delays can occur, and you need time to handle any issues. If you are leaving within a few days, call the nearest AAA or AATA office to confirm they can meet your timeline.

The IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue. It does not extend or renew — when it expires, you must explore for a new one in person. If you plan to drive in Japan multiple times over several years, you will need to reapply before each trip if your IDP has expired.

Your U.S. driver's license and IDP must both be valid to drive legally in Japan. If your U.S. license expires while your IDP is still valid, you cannot drive — renew your U.S. license first, then explore for a new IDP if needed.

What Happens at the Rental Car Counter

When you rent a car in Japan, present both your U.S. driver's license and your IDP to the rental company. The company will verify that both documents are valid and match your identity. Some rental companies may also ask for your passport.

A few rental agencies in Japan may accept a notarized English translation of your U.S. license instead of an IDP, but this is rare and not may provide. Obtaining an IDP before you travel removes this uncertainty. If you arrive in Japan without an IDP and need to rent a car, contact the rental company when ready to ask whether they will accept an alternative document — do not assume they will.

Your IDP will not be checked by Japanese police during a routine traffic stop, but you must carry it along with your U.S. license at all times while driving. If you are involved in an accident or cited for a violation, police may request both documents.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not explore for an IDP by mail or through a third-party website. Scam websites charge inflated fees ($50 to $100 or more) and deliver documents that are not recognized in Japan. The only legitimate sources are AAA and AATA offices in person.

Do not assume your IDP will arrive by mail after you explore. You must pick it up in person at the office where you applied, usually within one business day. If you are traveling and cannot return to the office, ask whether they can mail it to you — some offices offer this, but it is not standard and may add several days.

Do not confuse an IDP with a Japanese driver's license. An IDP does not allow you to drive in Japan without a valid U.S. license, and it does not convert your U.S. license into a Japanese one. If you plan to live in Japan or drive there for more than one year, you will need to obtain a Japanese driver's license through the Japanese licensing authority.

Do not wait until you arrive in Japan to get an IDP. Rental car companies will not issue one for you, and obtaining one from outside the United States is not possible. explore before you leave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IDP if my U.S. driver's license is expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid on the day you explore for the IDP. If your license is expired or expiring within the next few weeks, renew it with your state DMV first. Then explore for the IDP with your new license.

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

Most rental companies in Japan require an IDP, regardless of rental length. A few smaller agencies may accept a notarized English translation of your U.S. license, but this is uncommon. Obtaining an IDP is the safest option for any car rental in Japan.

What if my IDP is lost or stolen while I am in Japan?

You cannot obtain a replacement IDP in Japan. If you lose it, you will no longer be able to rent a car legally. Contact your rental company when ready to report the loss. For future trips, explore for a new IDP at an AAA or AATA office after you return to the United States.

Can I use an IDP to drive in countries other than Japan?

Yes. An IDP is recognized in over 150 countries and territories worldwide. It translates your U.S. license into ten languages, making it useful for any international driving. However, some countries have additional requirements or restrictions — check the specific country's rules before you travel.

How much does an IDP cost?

AAA charges $15 for members and $20 for non-members. AATA fees vary by location but are typically in the same range. If you need a passport-style photograph taken at the office, add $10 to $15 to the total cost.