An International Driving Permit translates your driver's license into ten languages so you can rent a car or drive legally in another country

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document issued by your home country that shows your driving privileges in a format other countries recognize. It is not a separate license — it is a translation and verification of the license you already hold. The IDP contains your name, photo, driving record summary, and the categories of vehicles you are permitted to drive, all printed in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Arabic, Chinese, and Japanese.

You carry it alongside your regular driver's license when you travel. Some countries require it by law; others accept it as proof of your driving status when your home license is in a language they do not read. A few countries will not recognize your home license at all without one. The IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which version you request, and it costs between $15 and $30 to obtain in the United States.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your existing driver's license into ten languages, not a separate license.
  • You must hold a valid driver's license from your home state or country before you can get an IDP.
  • In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs.
  • Some countries require an IDP by law; others accept it as optional proof of your driving privileges when renting a car.
  • An IDP is valid for one or three years and costs $15 to $30, depending on the issuing organization and validity period you choose.

Who issues an International Driving Permit in the United States

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). Both are recognized by the United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals, which means their permits are accepted in the 150+ countries that are party to the convention.

AAA is the larger and more widely available option — most AAA local clubs can issue an IDP in person within minutes. AATA operates primarily through mail and online orders. Both organizations charge similar fees, though AAA membership may reduce the cost at some locations. Neither organization can issue an IDP if you do not already hold a valid driver's license.

What you need to bring or provide to get an IDP

To obtain an IDP from AAA or AATA, you will need your current, valid driver's license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photograph (usually 2 by 2 inches). Some AAA locations accept digital photos taken on the spot; others require you to bring one. You must be at least 18 years old.

If you are explore by mail through AATA, you will mail your driver's license, process, photo, and payment together. The organization will return your license and the IDP to you within two to three weeks. AAA in-person applications are faster — you typically walk out with the permit the same day.

How long an International Driving Permit is valid

You can request an IDP valid for either one year or three years. The one-year permit costs less and is useful if you are taking a single trip. The three-year permit costs more but covers multiple trips over a longer period. Both versions expire on a fixed date, not on the anniversary of issue, so check the expiration date on your permit before you travel.

An IDP does not extend the validity of your underlying driver's license. If your home state license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid — you cannot drive legally on an expired license, even with a valid IDP. Conversely, if your IDP expires but your license is still valid, you can obtain a new IDP without renewing your license.

Countries that require or strongly recommend an IDP

Some countries legally require an IDP if you are driving on a foreign license. These include Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and most countries in South America and Southeast Asia. Others, such as most of Europe, do not require an IDP but will accept one as proof of your driving status if your home license is difficult for local police to verify.

Car rental companies often have their own policies. Many rental agencies in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East will not rent to you without an IDP, even if the country itself does not require one. Before you book a rental car, check the rental company's website or call to confirm whether an IDP is required for your destination and vehicle class.

The difference between an IDP and other travel documents

An IDP is sometimes confused with other documents you might need to travel. It is not a visa, a travel permit, or proof of insurance. It does not replace your passport or travel authorization. It is solely a translation of your driving privileges and is only useful if you plan to drive.

If you are traveling to a country that requires a visa or an electronic travel authorization (such as ETIAS in Europe), you must obtain those separately. If you are renting a car, you will also need to purchase rental car insurance or verify that your home auto insurance covers rentals in that country. An IDP does none of these things — it only proves you are licensed to drive.

What happens if you drive without an IDP in a country that requires one

If you are stopped by police in a country that requires an IDP and you do not have one, you may be fined, have your vehicle impounded, or be denied the right to drive for the remainder of your stay. The penalties vary by country and are set by local law, not by the IDP system itself. Some countries treat it as a minor traffic violation; others treat it as driving without a license.

Even in countries where an IDP is not legally required, not having one can complicate a traffic stop or a car rental dispute. If a police officer or rental agent cannot quickly verify your driving status, they may refuse to let you proceed. Obtaining an IDP before you travel eliminates this risk and costs far less than dealing with a fine or rental dispute abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in another country with just my regular driver's license?

It depends on the country. Many European countries accept a valid home license without an IDP. However, Australia, Japan, and most countries outside Europe and North America require an IDP by law. Car rental companies often require one even when the country does not. Check your destination's requirements and your rental company's policy before you travel.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?

AAA in-person applications are usually completed the same day. AATA mail applications take two to three weeks. If you are explore through AAA by mail, allow the same timeframe. Plan ahead if you are traveling soon — do not wait until a few days before your trip.

Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car for a day?

Check with your rental company first. Many require an IDP regardless of rental length. Others waive it for short rentals if you are renting in a country that does not legally require one. Call the rental agency before you book to confirm their specific policy for your destination.

What if my driver's license is suspended or has points on it?

You cannot obtain an IDP if your license is suspended or revoked. If your license is valid but has traffic violations or points recorded, you can still get an IDP — the IDP does not reveal your driving history to foreign authorities. However, if your license is suspended, you have no legal right to drive anywhere, including abroad.

Can I renew my IDP without renewing my driver's license?

Yes. An IDP is independent of your license renewal cycle. You can renew an expired IDP as long as your underlying driver's license is still valid. straightforward contact AAA or AATA with your current license, a new process, and a new photo.