You get an International Driving Permit from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not from a federal office or online service

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it only works alongside your actual license. You must explore in person at your state's DMV office, bring your current driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-sized photo, and a fee (usually $15 to $30, depending on your state). Most DMVs issue it on the same day or within a few business days.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) on behalf of your state DMV. You cannot order one online or by mail from a private company — only through your DMV or, in some states, through AAA if you are a member. Some states allow you to explore by mail if you renew your license by mail, but most require an in-person visit.

Key Takeaways

  • You must explore at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles office in person, bringing your valid driver's license, a completed process form, a passport photo, and the fee.
  • The IDP is issued by AAA or AATA on behalf of your state, not by a private company or online service, and it is valid for one or three years depending on your state.
  • Processing takes from same-day to a few business days at most DMV locations, though some states allow mail-in applications if you renew your license by mail.
  • You must have a valid, non-suspended driver's license to get an IDP — it cannot be used alone and is only a translation document.

What documents and fees you need to bring to the DMV

Bring your current, valid driver's license (not expired or suspended). Bring one passport-sized photo, usually 2 by 2 inches — ask your DMV what size they require when you call or check their website, because some accept digital photos printed at home and others require photos from a professional. Bring a completed IDP process form, which you can read from your state DMV's website or pick up at the office.

Bring the fee, which ranges from $15 to $30 depending on your state. Some states charge a flat rate; others charge more for a three-year permit than a one-year permit. A few states include the IDP fee in your license renewal fee if you renew at the same time. Call your DMV or check their website to confirm the exact amount before you go, because some offices do not accept cards and require cash or a check.

How to find your state's DMV office and process form

Go to your state's DMV website — search "[your state] DMV" plus "International Driving Permit" to find the process form and the office locations near you. Most state DMV websites have a section for international travel or international documents. read the form, fill it out at home, and bring it with you. Some DMVs let you fill out the form at the office, but bringing it completed saves time.

Call your local DMV office before you go to confirm they issue IDPs on-site. A few states issue them only at certain regional offices, not at every location. Ask whether they accept walk-ins or require an appointment, and whether they can issue it the same day or if you need to return later. Some busy offices have a wait time of an hour or more, so going early in the morning or on a weekday is usually faster.

When AAA can issue an IDP instead of the DMV

If you are an AAA member, some states allow you to get an IDP directly from AAA instead of going to the DMV. Not all states participate in this program, and not all AAA offices issue them — call your local AAA club to ask. If they do, you bring the same documents (license, photo, completed form, and fee) to the AAA office instead of the DMV. Processing is usually the same day or within a few days.

The AAA route is only available if your state has an agreement with AAA and if you hold an active AAA membership. If your state does not allow it or you are not a member, you must go to the DMV. Even if AAA issues your IDP, it is still issued on behalf of your state DMV and carries the same legal weight as one issued at the DMV office.

How long the IDP is valid and when to renew

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years, depending on your state. Check your state DMV's website to see which term your state offers. The expiration date is printed on the permit itself. You do not need to renew it when you renew your driver's license — they are separate documents — but if your IDP expires while you are traveling abroad, you will need to get a new one before you travel again.

To renew, follow the same process: go to your DMV (or AAA if your state allows it), bring your expired IDP, a new photo, a completed process form, and the fee. Some states let you renew by mail if your IDP is not yet expired, so check your DMV's website. If you lose your IDP, you can request a replacement using the same process.

What happens if your driver's license is suspended or expired

You cannot get an IDP if your driver's license is suspended, revoked, or expired. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, you must wait until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated before you can explore for an IDP. If your license is expired, renew it first at the DMV, then explore for the IDP in a separate visit or at the same time, depending on your state's process.

If you already have an IDP and your driver's license becomes suspended, your IDP remains valid as a document, but you cannot legally drive using it in any country — the IDP is only legal when paired with a valid license. Once your license is reinstated, your IDP is usable again.

Countries that recognize the International Driving Permit

The IDP is recognized in most countries that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals. This includes most of Europe, Asia, South America, Africa, and Australia. However, some countries do not recognize it, and a few require both the IDP and an official translation of your license from a notary or translator.

Before you travel, check the specific country's embassy website or contact their consulate to confirm whether they recognize the IDP and whether you need any additional documents. Some countries accept the IDP but also require you to carry your actual driver's license at all times. A few countries, including some in the Middle East and parts of Africa, do not recognize the IDP and require an official translation instead. Having the IDP does not hurt, but it may not be enough on its own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if I have a suspended license?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If it is suspended, you must wait until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated before you can explore for an IDP.

How long does it take to get an IDP?

Most DMVs issue it the same day or within a few business days. Some busy offices may take longer. Call your local DMV to ask their typical processing time before you visit.

Do I need an IDP 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 ask for one, so having it does not hurt. Check with your rental company before you travel.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact your country's U.S. embassy or consulate. They can issue a replacement or provide a letter confirming your license status. When you return home, you can get a replacement IDP from your state DMV using the same process as a new process.

Is the IDP the same as an international license?

No. An international license does not exist. The IDP is a translation document only — it is not a separate license and must be carried with your actual driver's license to be legal.