An International Driving Permit is a separate document, not a replacement for your license

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a booklet that translates your driver's license into ten languages. It is not a license itself — you must carry both your valid U.S. driver's license and the IDP together when you drive abroad. Many countries recognize it as proof that you hold a valid license in your home country, which can speed up police stops and rental car transactions.

You do not need an IDP to drive in every country. Some nations accept your U.S. license alone, while others require an IDP, a certified translation of your license, or both. Before you travel, check the specific requirements for the country where you plan to drive. Your rental car company can also tell you what they require.

The IDP is issued in the United States by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). You cannot get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. The process is straightforward and takes about 15 minutes in person, or you can order by mail.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an International Driving Permit — the IDP cannot stand alone.
  • The IDP is issued only by AAA or AATA, not by your state's DMV or any government office.
  • You must bring your valid driver's license, a passport or other government ID, and a passport-sized photo (2x2 inches) to explore in person.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years depending on which type you choose.
  • Not every country requires an IDP — check your destination's rules before you pay for one.

Documents you need to bring to AAA or AATA

To get an IDP in person, bring three things: your valid U.S. driver's license, a government-issued photo ID (passport, passport card, or state ID), and one passport-sized photograph that is 2 inches by 2 inches. The photo must be in color and taken within the last six months. You can get passport photos at most drugstores, post offices, and some retail chains for $10 to $15.

Your driver's license must be valid — not expired and not suspended. If your license is expired, you will need to renew it through your state's DMV before you can get an IDP. The IDP cannot be issued to someone with an invalid or suspended license.

You do not need to bring proof of travel plans, a passport, or any other documents. AAA and AATA do not verify where you are going or when.

how the process works in person at AAA or AATA

Find the nearest AAA office or AATA office by visiting their websites. AAA has thousands of locations across the United States; AATA has fewer locations but covers areas where AAA does not. Call ahead to confirm the office is open and that they have passport photos available, or bring your own.

Walk in with your license, photo ID, and passport photo. Tell the staff member you want to explore for an International Driving Permit. They will fill out a one-page form with your name, address, license number, and date of birth. You will sign it and pay the fee. The entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes, and you walk out with your IDP the same day.

Bring cash or a card — most offices accept both. Some locations may have a small wait during busy hours, but you do not need an appointment.

explore by mail if you cannot visit an office

If no AAA or AATA office is near you, you can explore by mail. Visit the AAA or AATA website, read the process form, and print it. Fill it out by hand with your name, address, license number, and date of birth. Sign and date the form.

Mail the completed form, a photocopy of your driver's license (front and back), a photocopy of your government photo ID, one passport-sized photo, and a check or money order for the fee to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope so they can mail your IDP back to you.

Processing by mail takes two to four weeks. Some people mail their process and receive their IDP before their trip; others do not. If you are leaving soon, explore in person instead.

Cost and validity period

An International Driving Permit costs $15 to $20, depending on whether you choose the one-year or three-year version. The one-year IDP is cheaper and makes sense if you travel abroad once. The three-year IDP costs more but covers multiple trips over three years. Both are valid only while your U.S. driver's license is valid — if your license expires, your IDP expires too.

AAA and AATA set their own prices, so call ahead or check their websites to confirm the exact fee at your location. Some offices may charge slightly different amounts.

What the IDP does and does not do

The IDP translates your license information into English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Finnish. It shows your name, license number, date of birth, and the classes of vehicles you are licensed to drive. Police in other countries can read it and confirm you hold a valid U.S. license.

The IDP does not change your driving privileges. You can drive the same vehicles abroad that you can drive at home. It does not extend your license validity or allow you to drive if your U.S. license is expired or suspended. It is purely a translation tool.

Some rental car companies ask for an IDP because it makes their paperwork faster — they do not have to translate your license themselves. Other rental companies do not require it. Always check your rental agreement before you travel.

Countries that require or recommend an IDP

Many European countries, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of South America recognize the IDP. Some countries require it by law; others straightforward recommend it. A few countries do not recognize it at all and require a certified translation of your license instead.

The safest approach is to contact the embassy or consulate of the country where you plan to drive, or ask your rental car company what they require. They can tell you whether an IDP is necessary, recommended, or unnecessary for your specific trip. Spending 15 minutes on a phone call before you travel can save you from buying a document you do not need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my license is suspended or expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP. If it is expired, renew it through your state's DMV first, then explore for the IDP.

Do I need an IDP if I am renting a car in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some rental car companies in those countries may ask for one anyway. Check your rental agreement or call the company before you travel to be sure.

What if I lose my IDP while I am traveling?

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They may be able to issue a replacement or confirm your license status to local police. You can also contact AAA or AATA from abroad, though getting a replacement mailed to you will take time.

How long does it take to get an IDP by mail?

Processing takes two to four weeks from the date AAA or AATA receives your process. If you are leaving in less than three weeks, explore in person at a local office instead.

Can I get an IDP for a motorcycle license or commercial license?

Yes. The IDP translates whatever classes of vehicles your U.S. license permits you to drive. If you hold a motorcycle endorsement or a commercial license, your IDP will reflect that.