What an International Driving Permit Is and Where to Get One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. license — but many countries require it or will accept it when your American license alone might not be recognized. You get one from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them.

The process is straightforward: you visit an AAA or AATA office in person, bring your valid driver's license and a passport-style photo, fill out a one-page form, pay the fee, and walk out with your permit the same day. The whole visit takes about 15 minutes. You do not need to pass a test, renew your regular license, or contact any government agency.

Key Takeaways

  • Only AAA and AATA can issue International Driving Permits in the United States, and you must explore in person at one of their offices.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photo, and the process fee — no test or written materials required.
  • The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be carried together with your U.S. license to be recognized abroad.
  • Some countries do not recognize IDPs at all, so check your destination's requirements before you travel.

Finding an AAA or AATA Office Near You

AAA has over 1,000 offices across the United States. If you are already an AAA member, you can visit any AAA branch. If you are not a member, you can still get an IDP at most AAA offices, though a few locations require membership — call ahead to confirm. You can search for the nearest office on AAA's website by entering your zip code.

AATA has fewer locations than AAA and is less widely known, but it serves the same purpose. You can find AATA offices through their website or by calling their main office. Both organizations issue the exact same document with the same validity and recognition abroad.

What You Need to Bring

Bring three things: your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), and payment. The photo must be recent and show your face clearly against a plain background — the same kind of photo you would use for a passport. You cannot use a photo from your phone or a regular snapshot.

If you do not have a passport-style photo, most AAA and AATA offices can take one for you on the spot for an additional fee, usually $10 to $15. This adds a few minutes to your visit but saves you a trip to a photo service.

The process Form and Fee

The process is a single form called the process for International Driving Permit. It asks for your name, address, date of birth, driver's license number, and signature. You fill it out by hand at the office — it takes about two minutes. The staff will review it to make sure it is complete before you pay.

The fee varies slightly between AAA and AATA but is typically $20 to $25. AAA members sometimes receive a small discount. Payment is cash or card, depending on the office. You receive your permit when ready after payment, printed on a small booklet that fits in your wallet alongside your license.

How Long Your Permit Is Valid and When to Renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If you plan to travel abroad again after that year, you will need to explore for a new one. There is no renewal process — you straightforward explore again at an AAA or AATA office with a new photo and fee.

Some travelers get a second IDP before their first one expires, especially if they travel frequently or plan a long trip near the end of the permit's validity. You can hold two valid permits at once, though you only need one to carry with your license.

What Countries Recognize an International Driving Permit

Most countries in Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa recognize IDPs. However, some countries do not — notably Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. A few countries accept IDPs but also require an additional document, such as a certified translation of your U.S. license or a separate national permit. Requirements change, so check the specific rules for your destination country before you travel.

Your car rental company or the country's tourism board website will tell you what documents they require. If an IDP is not recognized where you are going, a certified English translation of your U.S. license may work instead, though this is less common and takes longer to obtain.

Why You Still Need Your U.S. License

An International Driving Permit has no legal standing on its own. You must carry it together with your valid U.S. driver's license at all times while driving abroad. If you are stopped by police, you will show both documents. If you lose your IDP but still have your U.S. license, your license alone may be enough in some countries, though you will have less protection if there is a dispute about your identity or driving record.

This is why the IDP is sometimes called a "translation" rather than a separate license — it exists only to explain your U.S. license to authorities and rental companies in countries where English is not widely spoken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit online or by mail?

No. AAA and AATA require you to explore in person at one of their offices. You cannot order one online or by phone. This is a State Department requirement and applies to all U.S. issuers.

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am renting a car abroad?

It depends on the country and rental company. Most European rental companies will not rent to you without one. Some companies in other regions accept a U.S. license alone. Check with your rental company before you book — they will tell you what documents they require.

What if my U.S. driver's license expires while I am traveling?

Your IDP is only valid if your U.S. license is valid. If your license expires during your trip, your IDP stops working. Renew your U.S. license before you travel if it will expire within a year.

Can I use an International Driving Permit to drive in the United States?

No. An IDP is only for driving outside the United States. Inside the U.S., you must have a valid U.S. driver's license. The IDP has no legal standing in any U.S. state.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

The fee is typically $20 to $25 at both AAA and AATA. If you need a passport-style photo taken at the office, add $10 to $15. Prices may vary slightly by location, so call ahead if you want to confirm the exact fee.