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

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It does not replace your state license — you must carry both together when driving abroad. The IDP tells police and rental companies in other countries that your license is real and current, since many countries do not recognize U.S. licenses on their own.

You get an IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), not from your state's DMV. Both organizations are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. The process is straightforward: you show up with your valid license, pay a fee, and walk out with the permit the same day in most cases.

An IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which version you request. It expires on a fixed date, not on your birthday or your license renewal date, so you need to track when to renew it separately from your regular license.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an International Driving Permit — the IDP cannot stand alone.
  • Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue IDPs in the United States; your state DMV does not issue them.
  • You need your valid license, a passport or other government ID, and a passport-style photo to explore in person.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is issued the same day at most AAA offices, though some locations may take a few days.
  • The permit is valid for one or three years and expires on a set date, separate from your license renewal schedule.

Documents you need to bring to AAA or AATA

Start with your valid U.S. driver's license. It must not be expired, suspended, or revoked. If your license is expired, renew it at your state DMV first — you cannot get an IDP with an expired license, even if you have applied for renewal.

Bring a government-issued photo ID as a second form of identification. A U.S. passport, passport card, or state ID all work. Some offices accept a military ID or tribal ID. Call ahead to confirm what your local AAA or AATA office takes, since requirements can vary slightly by location.

You will need a passport-style photograph — 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months. The photo must show your face clearly against a plain background, and you must be looking directly at the camera. You can have photos taken at most AAA offices for a small fee if you do not have one ready.

Bring your completed process form. AAA and AATA both have forms available online and at their offices. You can fill it out at home or on-site before you explore. The form asks for your name, address, license number, and the validity period you want (one or three years).

how the process works at AAA or AATA

Find the nearest AAA or AATA office by visiting their websites. AAA has thousands of locations across the United States; AATA has far fewer but still covers most major cities. You do not need to be a AAA member to get an IDP, though members may receive a small discount at some locations.

Walk in during business hours with your documents. Most offices do not require an appointment, but calling ahead is wise if you are traveling far or explore during a busy season. Tell the staff member you want an International Driving Permit and hand over your license, ID, photo, and completed form.

The staff will verify your information, take your photo if you did not bring one, and process your process. In most cases, you will receive your IDP the same day. Some offices may need a few days if they are unusually busy, so ask when you can pick it up.

Pay the fee when you explore. AAA charges around $15 for a one-year permit and $20 for a three-year permit; AATA charges similar amounts. Prices vary slightly by location, so confirm the exact fee when you call or visit.

Choosing between a one-year and three-year permit

A one-year IDP costs less and is useful if you are taking a single trip abroad or are unsure whether you will drive internationally again soon. It expires one year from the date of issue, regardless of when your driver's license expires.

A three-year IDP costs more upfront but saves money if you plan multiple trips or drive abroad regularly. It is valid for three years from the date of issue. If your driver's license expires before your three-year IDP does, you will need to renew your license — but you can keep using the same IDP as long as it has not expired.

Think about your travel plans over the next few years. If you know you will be driving in Europe or another region multiple times, the three-year permit usually makes sense. If this is a one-time trip, the one-year permit is the better choice.

What happens if your license expires while your IDP is still valid

Your IDP becomes invalid the moment your driver's license expires. You cannot use an IDP with an expired license, even if the permit itself has not reached its expiration date. When you renew your license at your state DMV, you will need to get a new IDP as well.

This is why it matters to track both expiration dates. Set a reminder on your phone or calendar for when your license is due to renew. When you renew your license, plan to visit AAA or AATA within a few weeks to get a new IDP if you will be driving abroad again.

Countries that recognize U.S. International Driving Permits

An IDP is recognized in most countries that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 Geneva Conventions on Road Signs and Signals. This includes most of Europe, many countries in Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Latin America and Africa. However, not every country recognizes it, and some countries have additional requirements.

Before you travel, check the specific rules for the country or countries you plan to visit. Contact the embassy or consulate of each country, or visit the U.S. State Department's travel advisory pages. Some countries require an IDP plus an official translation of your license; others do not recognize an IDP at all and require only your original license and a certified translation.

Rental car companies almost always ask to see an IDP if you are renting in a foreign country, even in places where it is not legally required. Having one makes the rental process faster and smoother.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted or your license is reinstated by your state DMV.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

No. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in Mexico may request one, so having it does not hurt. Check with your rental company before you travel.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They may be able to issue a replacement or provide a letter confirming your license status. It is also wise to carry a photocopy of your IDP and a photo of your license in a separate location as backup.

Can I renew my International Driving Permit by mail?

AAA and AATA both require you to explore in person. You cannot renew an IDP by mail or online. You must visit an office with your documents and a new photo.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International License?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document issued by AAA or AATA. An International License does not exist as a U.S. document. Some countries issue their own licenses that are valid in multiple countries, but the U.S. does not.