What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your US driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license, and it does not let you drive in countries where you cannot drive with your regular license. It is a translation booklet that sits alongside your US license when you travel abroad.

The IDP exists because many countries do not recognize a US driver's license on its own—not because the license is invalid, but because border agents and police officers may not be able to read English or verify an American document. The IDP solves that problem by presenting your license information in their language, with an official seal that shows you obtained it through a recognized US issuing body.

You need both documents together. A US citizen driving in Europe, for example, must carry the IDP and the original US license at the same time. The IDP alone is not enough.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your US driver's license, not a separate license, and you must carry both documents when driving abroad.
  • The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized by the US State Department to issue IDPs.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired US driver's license to obtain an IDP, and the permit is valid for one or three years depending on which you choose.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 and takes a few minutes to obtain in person at an AAA office or through AATA by mail.
  • Some countries do not recognize IDPs at all, so you should check your destination's specific requirements before you travel.

Where to Get an International Driving Permit

Only two organizations in the United States are authorized by the State Department to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). You cannot obtain one from your state's DMV, a passport office, or any other government agency.

AAA has physical offices in most states and can issue an IDP on the spot if you walk in with your valid US driver's license, a passport or other government-issued photo ID, and a passport-sized photograph (2x2 inches). The process takes about five minutes. If you are not an AAA member, you can still obtain an IDP; membership is not required.

AATA operates by mail and online. You send them your completed process form, a photocopy of your US driver's license, a photocopy of your passport or government ID, and a passport-sized photograph. AATA processes the process and mails the IDP to you, which typically takes one to two weeks.

What You Need to Bring or Submit

Whether you go to AAA in person or use AATA by mail, you will need the same documents:

  • A valid, unexpired US driver's license (your current state license).
  • A government-issued photo ID—usually your passport, but a state ID or military ID also works.
  • A passport-sized photograph, 2 inches by 2 inches, taken within the last six months.
  • Payment for the IDP fee (cash, check, or card, depending on the issuer).

If you are explore by mail through AATA, you will also need to complete their process form, which you can read from their website or request by phone. You do not need to notarize the form or have it witnessed.

How Long an IDP Lasts and When to Renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which you choose when you obtain it. Both options are available from both AAA and AATA, and the cost difference is small—usually $15 for one year and $20 for three years.

The expiration date is printed on the front of the IDP. If your US driver's license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid even if it still shows time remaining. You must renew your US license first, then obtain a new IDP.

If your IDP expires while you are abroad, you cannot renew it overseas. You will need to return to the United States or contact AAA or AATA from abroad to arrange a replacement, which is slow and difficult. Most travelers obtain a three-year permit to avoid this problem.

Countries That Recognize and Reject IDPs

Most countries in Europe, Latin America, Asia, and Africa recognize the International Driving Permit. However, some do not. The United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, for example, do not recognize IDPs and will not accept one as proof of driving authority. In those countries, your US driver's license alone is sufficient.

Some countries recognize the IDP but also require additional documents—an International Certificate of Motor Vehicle Registration, proof of insurance, or a certified translation of your license. A few countries issue their own driving permits that you must obtain before arrival, separate from the IDP.

Before you travel, check the specific requirements for your destination country on its official government website or contact its embassy or consulate in the United States. The IDP is useful in many places, but it is not a universal document, and assuming it will work everywhere can leave you unable to rent a car or drive legally.

How an IDP Differs from a Real ID or Passport

An International Driving Permit is not the same as a Real ID-compliant driver's license, and it is not a travel document like a passport. A Real ID is a US domestic security standard that affects whether you can board a domestic flight or enter a federal building—it has nothing to do with driving abroad. A passport is what you use to cross international borders and prove citizenship; the IDP is only for driving.

You need a passport to enter most countries, and you need an IDP only if you plan to drive while you are there. Some travelers obtain both. The IDP does not replace your passport, and your passport does not replace your IDP when you are behind the wheel.

Cost and Timeline for Getting an IDP

An International Driving Permit costs between $15 and $20 depending on whether you choose a one-year or three-year permit. AAA charges the same fee whether you are a member or not. AATA's fees are similar. There are no hidden charges, and the price does not vary by state.

If you obtain the IDP in person at an AAA office, you will have it in your hands within minutes. If you use AATA by mail, expect one to two weeks for processing and delivery. If you are leaving for a trip soon, AAA in person is the faster option. If you have time, either method works.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

It depends on the country. Many countries accept a US driver's license alone, especially Canada, the UK, and Australia. Others require an IDP or will not recognize your US license without one. Check your destination's requirements before you travel—do not assume your US license is enough.

What if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

You cannot renew it while abroad. You will need to return to the US or contact AAA or AATA by mail or phone to request a replacement, which is slow. Obtaining a three-year permit instead of a one-year permit avoids this problem for most trips.

Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car, not driving?

If you are renting a car, you will be driving it, so yes, you need an IDP in countries that require one. Some rental companies also ask to see an IDP even in countries that do not legally require it, so it is safer to have one if you plan to rent.

Can I get an IDP from my state's DMV?

No. Only the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are authorized to issue IDPs. Your state DMV cannot issue one, even though it issues your driver's license.

What happens if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact AAA or AATA when ready and request an emergency replacement. If you are in a country with a US embassy or consulate, they may be able to help you obtain a replacement faster. Keep a photocopy of your IDP in a separate location as backup.