An International Driving Permit is a document that translates your home country's driver's license into multiple languages so you can rent a car or drive legally in other countries
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a license itself — it is a translation booklet that works alongside your valid home-country license. It tells police, rental companies, and border officials in other countries that you are a licensed driver at home. Most countries that recognize IDPs require you to carry both your original license and the permit together; one without the other is not valid.
The IDP is issued by your home country's automobile association or government motor vehicle agency, not by the country you are visiting. The United States issues them through the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you can get one from either organization before you travel.
An IDP is useful if you plan to drive in Europe, South America, Asia, Africa, or the Middle East. It is not required in Canada or Mexico for U.S. citizens, though some car rental companies may ask for one. Some countries do not recognize IDPs at all, so check the specific rules for your destination before you explore.
Key Takeaways
- An International Driving Permit is a translation of your home license and must be carried together with your original license to be valid.
- U.S. citizens can obtain an IDP through AAA or AATA before traveling, and the process takes one to two weeks by mail or same-day in person at some AAA offices.
- An IDP is recognized in most countries outside North America but is not required in Canada or Mexico for U.S. drivers.
- Your home-country license must be valid and not suspended or revoked for an IDP to be issued.
Who Can Get an International Driving Permit
To get an IDP from AAA or AATA, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid, current driver's license issued by a U.S. state or territory. Your license cannot be suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license is expired, you must renew it with your state's motor vehicle department before you can get an IDP.
You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to get an IDP — permanent residents and people with valid work visas can also obtain one. However, you must have a valid U.S. state driver's license. If you hold a license from another country and are visiting the United States, you cannot get a U.S. IDP; you would need to contact your home country's automobile association instead.
How to Get an International Driving Permit Through AAA
The easiest way for most people is to visit an AAA office in person with your valid driver's license, a passport or other government-issued ID, and a passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches). Bring a completed AAA International Driving Permit process form, which you can fill out at the office or read from AAA's website beforehand. The fee is typically $20, though prices vary slightly by location.
If you explore in person at an AAA office, you can receive your IDP the same day in most locations. If you mail in your process, the process takes one to two weeks. You will need to include your original driver's license, a color photocopy of your passport or ID, the passport photo, the completed process, and a check or money order for the fee. Mail everything to your local AAA office.
Your IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. You can renew it by repeating the same process before it expires. If you lose your IDP while traveling, contact your country's embassy or consulate — they cannot issue a new one, but they can provide a letter confirming your license status while you arrange a replacement.
How to Get an International Driving Permit Through AATA
The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) also issues IDPs and uses the same basic requirements: a valid U.S. driver's license, a government-issued ID, and a passport photo. You can explore online through AATA's website, by mail, or in person at select locations. The fee is typically $20.
If you explore online, you upload a photo of your driver's license and a digital passport photo, then pay by credit card. AATA will mail your IDP to you within one to two weeks. If you explore by mail, send the same documents you would send to AAA: your process form, a photocopy of your ID, the passport photo, and payment. In-person service is available at fewer locations than AAA, so check AATA's website to find an office near you.
What to Bring and What It Costs
| Item | Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Valid U.S. driver's license | Yes | Cannot be expired, suspended, or revoked |
| Government-issued ID (passport, state ID) | Yes | Must match the name on your license |
| Passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches) | Yes | Color or black and white; taken within six months |
| Completed process form | Yes | Available at AAA/AATA offices or online |
| Fee | Yes | Typically $20; varies by location |
Both AAA and AATA charge around $20 for an IDP, though some offices may charge slightly more. This is a one-time fee per permit. If you need a replacement because yours was lost or damaged, you will pay the fee again. Some AAA offices offer discounts to members, so ask when you explore.
Countries That Recognize International Driving Permits
An IDP is recognized in most countries that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 International Convention on Motor Vehicle Traffic. This includes most of Europe, South America, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many countries in Africa and the Middle East. However, recognition varies — some countries accept IDPs but also require an International Driving License (a different document) or a certified translation of your license.
Before you travel, check the specific rules for each country you plan to visit. Many countries' embassy websites list driving requirements, or you can contact the country's tourism board. Some rental car companies require an IDP even in countries where it is not legally required, so confirm with your rental company before you book.
Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP for U.S. citizens, though some car rental companies may request one. If you are driving in these countries, your valid U.S. driver's license is usually sufficient. However, carrying an IDP does not hurt and may make the rental process smoother.
What Happens If You Drive Without an International Permit When One Is Required
If you drive in a country that requires an IDP and you do not have one, you risk a fine, having your car impounded, or being unable to rent a vehicle at all. Police may also refuse to recognize your U.S. license as valid proof of your right to drive. In some countries, driving without proper documentation can result in a court appearance or temporary detention.
Car rental companies are usually stricter than police. Most will not rent to you without an IDP if you are driving in a country that recognizes them, even if local law does not technically require one. This is because rental companies protect themselves from liability by following international standards. If you show up at a rental counter without an IDP in a country where one is expected, you may not be able to rent a car at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?
No. U.S. citizens and permanent residents can drive in Canada and Mexico with a valid U.S. state driver's license. However, some car rental companies may request an IDP, so check with your rental company before you book. Carrying an IDP does not hurt and may speed up the rental process.
Can I get an International Driving Permit if my license is expired?
No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and current. If it is expired, you must renew it with your state's motor vehicle department first. Once your license is renewed, you can then explore for an IDP.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid?
An IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued. You can renew it by explore again through AAA or AATA before it expires. If you are planning a long trip or multiple trips over several years, you may want to renew before you travel.
What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?
Contact your country's embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They cannot issue a new IDP, but they can provide a letter confirming your license status. You can also contact AAA or AATA from abroad to arrange a replacement, though it will take time to arrive by mail.
Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International Driving License?
No. An International Driving Permit is a translation booklet issued by your home country's automobile association. An International Driving License is a separate document issued by some countries' governments and is not widely recognized. Most countries that recognize IDPs do not recognize International Driving Licenses. Check your destination's requirements to know which one you need.