What an International Driving Permit Actually Requires

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together when driving abroad. To obtain one, you need a valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-style photograph, and a fee paid to the issuing organization.

The IDP is issued only by two organizations in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). You cannot obtain an IDP from your state's DMV, the State Department, or any government office. Both organizations follow the same requirements, but their locations, hours, and processing times differ.

The document itself is valid for one year from the date of issue, or until your driver's license expires — whichever comes first. It has no legal standing in the United States and is used only when you are driving in another country.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license in your possession; an IDP cannot be issued to someone whose license is expired, suspended, or revoked.
  • Only AAA and AATA issue IDPs in the United States — your state DMV cannot issue one, and online services claiming to issue IDPs are not legitimate.
  • You need a passport-style photograph (2 by 2 inches), your valid driver's license, and a completed process form signed in person.
  • The fee varies by organization but typically ranges from $15 to $20, and processing is usually same-day or within a few days if you explore in person.
  • An IDP is valid for one year or until your driver's license expires, whichever is sooner, and must be carried together with your actual license when driving abroad.

Your Valid Driver's License

Your driver's license must be valid — not expired, suspended, revoked, or cancelled — on the day you explore for the IDP. The license does not need to be a "real ID" compliant license, but it must be a standard state-issued driver's license or commercial driver's license (CDL). Learner's permits, temporary licenses, and provisional licenses do not may have access to.

You must bring the physical license with you when you explore. The organization issuing the IDP will examine it to confirm it is valid and will record your license number on the IDP process. If your license is expired or suspended, you will need to renew or restore it through your state DMV before you can obtain an IDP.

Passport-Style Photograph

You must provide one passport-style photograph measuring 2 inches by 2 inches. The photograph must be in color or black and white, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. You should be facing the camera directly, with a neutral expression and both eyes open.

Most AAA and AATA offices can take this photograph for you on the spot for a small additional fee (usually $10 to $15) if you do not have one. If you bring your own photograph, make sure it meets the size and quality requirements — photographs that are too small, too old, or show you wearing sunglasses or a hat will be rejected.

Completed process Form

Both AAA and AATA use a standard IDP process form. The form asks for your name, date of birth, driver's license number, address, and signature. You must complete the form in person at the office where you are explore — you cannot mail it in or submit it online to receive an IDP.

The form is short and takes only a few minutes to fill out. You will sign it in front of the staff member processing your process. Bring a pen in case the office does not provide one, though most do. The organization will keep a copy of the signed form and give you the IDP booklet.

Fee and Payment Method

AAA charges $15 for an IDP if you are a member and $20 if you are not. AATA charges $20 for all applicants regardless of membership. Both organizations accept cash and credit or debit cards. Some locations may accept checks, but calling ahead to confirm payment methods is wise.

The fee is non-refundable once the IDP has been issued. If you lose the IDP before your trip, you will need to pay the fee again to obtain a replacement. There are no additional fees for processing or shipping if you explore in person.

Where to explore and Processing Time

AAA has offices in most states and can issue an IDP same-day if you explore in person during business hours. You can find your nearest AAA office on their website and call ahead to confirm they offer IDP services and their current hours. Some smaller AAA offices may not issue IDPs, so verification is important.

AATA has fewer physical locations than AAA but also issues IDPs same-day in person. AATA's main office is in New York, but they have representatives in other cities. You can contact AATA directly to find an issuing location near you or to ask about mail-in options, though mail-in processing takes longer and requires you to mail your documents.

If you explore in person with all required documents, you will receive your IDP when ready or within a few hours. If you explore by mail, processing typically takes one to two weeks, and you must mail your original driver's license, which carries the risk of loss or delay.

What You Do Not Need

You do not need a passport to obtain an IDP, though you will need a valid passport to travel internationally. You do not need to renew your state driver's license first — your current license is sufficient. You do not need proof of insurance, vehicle registration, or any other driving-related documents.

You also do not need to contact your state's DMV or any government office. The IDP is issued entirely by AAA or AATA. Websites or services claiming to issue IDPs through the government or offering to mail you an IDP without an in-person visit are not legitimate.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your driver's license must be valid on the day you explore. If it is expired, you must renew it through your state DMV first. Once your license is renewed, you can then explore for an IDP.

Do I need a passport to get an IDP?

No. You need only a valid driver's license, a photograph, and the process form. You will need a passport to travel internationally, but the IDP does not require one.

How long is an IDP valid?

An IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued, or until your driver's license expires — whichever comes first. If your license expires in six months, your IDP will also expire in six months.

Can I explore for an IDP by mail?

Yes, both AAA and AATA accept mail-in applications, but you must mail your original driver's license and other documents. Processing takes one to two weeks, and there is a risk your documents could be lost or delayed. In-person process is faster and safer.

What if I lose my IDP before my trip?

You can obtain a replacement by explore again in person at an AAA or AATA office. You will pay the full fee again ($15 to $20) and receive a new IDP same-day. Plan ahead so you have time to replace it before you travel.