An International Driving Permit translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages and is recognized in over 150 countries

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Finnish. It does not replace your U.S. license — you must carry both documents together when driving abroad.

The IDP is recognized by the United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals and is accepted in over 150 countries. However, not every country requires one, and some countries do not recognize it at all. Before you travel, check the specific requirements for each country you plan to visit, because rental car companies and local police may have different expectations.

The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. It cannot be renewed; you must obtain a new one if you need it after expiration. The document itself is small — about the size of a passport — and fits easily in a wallet or travel bag.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued by AAA or AATA and must be carried alongside your valid U.S. driver's license at all times.
  • The IDP is valid for one year and cannot be renewed; you must obtain a new one if you need it after it expires.
  • Over 150 countries recognize the IDP, but some do not, so you must verify the requirements for each country before you travel.
  • You can obtain an IDP in person at an AAA office or by mail through AAA, and the process takes one to two weeks by mail.
  • The cost is typically $20 for the IDP itself, plus any AAA membership fees if you are not already a member.

Who issues the International Driving Permit in the United States

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the primary issuer of International Driving Permits in the United States. The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) also issues them, but AAA is far more widely available and operates over 1,000 offices nationwide. You cannot obtain an IDP from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or any government agency — it is issued only by these two private organizations.

AAA membership is not required to obtain an IDP, though members may receive a small discount. Non-members can walk into any AAA office and request one without joining. If you do not have an AAA office nearby, you can request an IDP by mail using AAA's online form or by calling your nearest office.

What documents you need to bring or submit

To obtain an International Driving Permit, you must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license. That is the only document required. You do not need a passport, proof of citizenship, or any other identification.

If you are explore in person at an AAA office, bring your driver's license and a completed process form (available at the office or online). If you are explore by mail, you will need to submit a photocopy of your driver's license (front and back), a completed process form, a passport-sized photograph (2 by 2 inches), and payment. Some AAA offices accept photographs taken at the office for a small additional fee.

The photograph requirement is strict: it must be a recent color or black-and-white photo, taken against a plain background, with your face clearly visible and filling most of the frame. Passport photos from a drugstore or photo service meet this standard.

How to obtain an IDP in person or by mail

If you have an AAA office in your area, the fastest route is to visit in person. Bring your valid driver's license and a completed process form (you can fill it out at the office). The IDP is issued on the spot, and the entire process takes about 15 minutes. The cost is typically $20, though prices vary slightly by location.

If you cannot visit an office, you can request an IDP by mail. Visit the AAA website, read the process form, and mail it along with a photocopy of your driver's license (both sides), a 2-by-2-inch photograph, and a check or money order for $20 plus shipping costs. Mail the packet to the AAA office nearest you. Processing by mail takes one to two weeks, plus mailing time in both directions.

You can also call your nearest AAA office to ask whether they accept phone or online orders. Some offices have begun offering online ordering with mail delivery, though this service is not yet available everywhere.

Timeline and validity of your International Driving Permit

An International Driving Permit is valid for exactly one year from the date it is issued. The expiration date is printed on the front of the document. You cannot renew it; once it expires, you must obtain a new one if you need it.

If you obtain your IDP in person, it is valid when ready. If you obtain it by mail, it becomes valid on the date you receive it. Plan ahead if you are traveling within a year of your IDP's expiration — you may need to obtain a new one before your trip.

The IDP must always be carried together with your valid U.S. driver's license. The IDP alone is not sufficient; police in foreign countries will ask to see both documents. If your U.S. license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid, because it is only a translation of your current license.

Countries that recognize or do not recognize the International Driving Permit

The IDP is recognized in over 150 countries, including most of Europe, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea. However, some countries do not recognize it, and a few countries have specific rules about when it is required.

The United Kingdom, Ireland, and several other countries accept the IDP but do not require it if you carry your valid U.S. driver's license. Some countries, such as France and Germany, recommend the IDP but do not mandate it. A few countries, including China and Russia, do not recognize the IDP at all and require an official translation of your license obtained through their embassy or consulate.

Rental car companies have their own rules. Some require an IDP in addition to your U.S. license; others do not. Check with your rental company before you travel. The safest approach is to obtain an IDP before you leave the United States, because it costs $20 and takes little time, and you may need it even if it is not legally required.

Cost and where to pay

The cost of an International Driving Permit is typically $20, though some AAA offices charge slightly more or less depending on location. This is the cost of the IDP itself. If you are explore by mail, you will also pay shipping costs, which vary by location and method (standard mail or expedited).

AAA members sometimes receive a small discount, usually $2 to $5 off the standard price. Non-members pay the full price. You can pay by cash, check, credit card, or debit card, depending on the office or method you use.

There are no government fees or taxes associated with the IDP, because it is issued by a private organization, not a government agency. The $20 fee is the total cost unless you choose expedited shipping or other add-ons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Europe?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Most European countries do not legally require an IDP if you have a valid U.S. driver's license, but many rental companies request one anyway. Check with your rental company before you book. If they request one, obtaining an IDP is faster and cheaper than dealing with a dispute at the rental counter.

Can I use an International Driving Permit if my U.S. license is expired?

No. The IDP is only a translation of your current U.S. driver's license. If your U.S. license is expired, the IDP is invalid, even if the IDP itself has not expired. You must renew your U.S. license before you travel.

What happens if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide documentation that you obtained one, which may help if you are stopped by police. You can also obtain a new IDP when you return to the United States by visiting an AAA office or explore by mail.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document issued by AAA. An international license is a separate license issued by some countries to their own citizens. You cannot obtain an international license in the United States; you can only obtain an IDP.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if I have a learner's permit or provisional license?

No. You must have a valid, full driver's license. Learner's permits and provisional licenses are not sufficient. If you have a provisional license, you must wait until it becomes a full license before you can obtain an IDP.