Where to Get an International Driving Permit

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is issued in the United States by two organisations only: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Touring Association (ATA). You cannot get one from your state DMV, the federal government, or any other source. Both AAA and ATA are authorised by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs under the 1926 Geneva Convention on Motor Traffic.

AAA is the larger and more widely available option — it has over 1,000 locations across the country. ATA has fewer offices but serves the same purpose. Both issue the same document, valid for three years, and both charge a fee (typically $20 at AAA, though prices vary slightly by location). The permit itself is a booklet that translates your driving privileges into ten languages and is recognised in over 150 countries.

You do not need an IDP to drive in most countries, and many nations do not require one. However, some rental car companies, police in certain countries, and some insurance policies will ask for one. The IDP is a supplement to your valid U.S. driver's license — it does not replace it, and you must carry both documents together when driving abroad.

Key Takeaways

  • Only AAA and ATA issue International Driving Permits in the United States; your state DMV cannot issue one.
  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP, and you must carry both documents together when driving outside the U.S.
  • An IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue and costs approximately $20, though the fee may vary by location.
  • AAA has over 1,000 locations nationwide and is usually the fastest and easiest option to visit in person.
  • Many countries do not require an IDP, so check the specific rules for the country or countries where you plan to drive before purchasing one.

Getting an IDP from AAA

Visit your nearest AAA office in person with your valid U.S. driver's license and a completed process form. AAA does not issue IDPs by mail or online. You will need to bring one form of identification (your driver's license counts), and you should bring a passport or other travel document if you have one, though it is not required. The office will take a photo during your visit, so dress as you would for a driver's license photo.

The process takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You will fill out form DS-11 (the official IDP process), pay the fee (typically $20), and receive your permit on the spot. AAA locations are open during standard business hours, usually Monday through Friday and some Saturday mornings. You can find your nearest location and hours on the AAA website or by calling 1-800-AAA-HELP.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP — membership is not required. However, AAA members sometimes receive a small discount on the fee. Bring your membership card if you have one.

Getting an IDP from the American Touring Association

The American Touring Association issues IDPs at a smaller number of locations, primarily in the Northeast and Midwest. Like AAA, ATA requires you to visit in person with a valid U.S. driver's license. The process and fee are nearly identical to AAA: you complete the process, pay approximately $20, and receive your permit when ready.

ATA locations are harder to find than AAA offices. You can search for an ATA office on their website or call ahead to confirm hours and location before you visit. If there is no ATA office near you, AAA is your practical alternative.

Documents You Need to Bring

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license — this is the only document required. Your license must not be expired. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP until you renew or restore your license through your state DMV.

Bring a second form of identification if you have one — a passport, military ID, or state ID card. This is not always required, but it speeds up the process and helps the issuer verify your identity. If you do not have a second ID, your driver's license alone is usually sufficient.

Bring cash or a card to pay the fee. Most AAA and ATA offices accept both, but call ahead if you want to confirm payment methods at your specific location.

Timeline and Validity

An International Driving Permit is issued on the same day you explore, as long as you visit in person with the required documents. There is no waiting period. The permit is valid for three years from the date of issue, or until your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever comes first.

If your U.S. license expires before your IDP expires, your IDP becomes invalid. You do not need to renew the IDP separately — it is tied to your license. If you renew your driver's license, you will need to get a new IDP if you still need one.

Plan to get your IDP at least a few days before you travel, even though it is issued when ready. This gives you time to verify you have it before you leave and to return to the office if there is any issue with the process.

When You Actually Need an IDP

Many countries do not require an International Driving Permit. The United States has a reciprocal agreement with many nations, meaning your U.S. driver's license alone is recognised as valid. However, some countries do require one, and some rental car companies will not rent to you without one, even if the country does not legally require it.

Before you travel, check the driving rules for the specific country or countries you plan to visit. Contact the embassy or consulate of each country, or check the U.S. State Department's travel advisory for that country. Some countries that commonly require an IDP include Russia, China, India, and several Middle Eastern nations, though this list changes and varies by region within countries.

If you are renting a car, contact the rental company directly and ask whether they require an IDP. Some companies require one as a matter of policy regardless of local law. Getting an IDP is inexpensive and takes 20 minutes, so if there is any doubt, it is worth getting one before you travel.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not assume your state DMV can issue an IDP. They cannot. Only AAA and ATA are authorised to issue them in the United States. If a DMV employee tells you otherwise, they are mistaken — contact AAA or ATA directly.

Do not try to get an IDP by mail or online. Both AAA and ATA require you to visit in person. If you see a website offering to mail you an IDP or issue one online, it is not a legitimate source.

Do not assume you do not need an IDP. Check the rules for your destination country before you travel. Some countries have specific requirements, and some rental companies will refuse to rent without one. It is cheaper and faster to get one before you leave than to discover you need one at the rental counter.

Do not let your IDP expire while you are abroad. If your U.S. driver's license expires, your IDP is no longer valid, even if the IDP booklet itself has not reached its three-year expiration date. Renew your driver's license before you travel if it is close to expiring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not suspended or revoked. If your license is expired, renew it through your state DMV first, then get your IDP from AAA or ATA.

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

No. Canada and Mexico recognise a valid U.S. driver's license. However, some car rental companies may request one as a matter of policy, so check with your rental company before you travel.

How long does an International Driving Permit last?

An IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue, or until your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever comes first. If your license expires before the three-year mark, your IDP is no longer valid.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while I am abroad?

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are located. They may be able to issue a replacement or provide guidance on local driving rules. You can also contact AAA or ATA from abroad, though they cannot issue a replacement outside the United States.

Can I get an International Driving Permit without a U.S. driver's license?

No. You must have a valid U.S. driver's license to get an IDP. If you do not have a U.S. license, you cannot get an IDP from AAA or ATA.