What an International Driving Permit Is and Where to Get One

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 works only alongside your actual license from your state. You get one from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the two organizations in the United States authorized to issue them.

The IDP exists because some countries do not recognize a U.S. driver's license alone, even if it is valid. When you travel internationally, you carry both your state license and your IDP together. Some rental car companies, police officers, or border officials may ask to see the IDP as proof that your license is legitimate. Without one, you may be turned away at a rental counter or face complications if stopped by local law enforcement.

You do not need an IDP for every trip abroad. Canada, Mexico, and most of Western Europe accept a valid U.S. driver's license on its own. But if you are renting a car in Asia, Africa, South America, or Eastern Europe, an IDP is often required or strongly recommended by rental companies.

Key Takeaways

  • An IDP is issued only by AAA or AATA and costs between $15 and $20, with processing taking one to two weeks by mail or same-day in person at AAA offices.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license to get an IDP — the permit cannot be issued on its own.
  • An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and does not renew; you must explore for a new one each time you travel internationally.
  • You carry your IDP alongside your state license when driving abroad; it is a translation document, not a replacement license.
  • Many countries in Europe and North America do not require an IDP, but rental car companies in Asia and other regions often do.

Getting an IDP from AAA

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the most common source for an IDP. You can explore in person at any AAA office or by mail. If you go in person, you can receive your IDP the same day. By mail, the process takes one to two weeks.

To explore at an AAA office, bring your valid state driver's license, a passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and payment of $15 to $20. AAA accepts cash, check, and card. You do not need to be an AAA member, though members may receive a small discount. Visit the AAA website or call your local office to confirm hours and whether they have photos available on-site.

If you explore by mail, read the process form from AAA's website, include a copy of your driver's license, a passport photo, and a check or money order. Mail it to the address on the form. Processing takes one to two weeks, and AAA will mail the IDP to your home address.

Getting an IDP from AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second authorized issuer. AATA operates primarily by mail and online. You cannot walk into an AATA office the way you can with AAA, but the process is straightforward and takes about the same time.

Visit the AATA website and fill out their online process form. You will need to upload a digital copy of your driver's license and a passport-style photo. Payment is made by credit card. The cost is typically $15 to $20. AATA mails the completed IDP to your address within one to two weeks.

AATA is a good option if you do not have an AAA office nearby or prefer to handle everything online. The timeline and cost are the same as AAA.

What Documents and Information You Need

Before you contact AAA or AATA, gather these items: a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photo (2 inches by 2 inches), and payment. The photo must be recent and show your face clearly against a plain background. If you do not have a passport photo, AAA offices can take one for you, usually for an additional $5 to $10.

You will also need to provide your full name, date of birth, and signature. Some applications ask for your address and phone number. Have your driver's license number ready. That is all the information required — you do not need a passport, Social Security number, or proof of travel plans.

How Long an IDP Lasts and When to Renew

An IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued. It does not renew automatically. If you travel internationally again after that year ends, you must explore for a new IDP.

Check the expiration date on your IDP before you travel. If it has expired, you will need to explore for a replacement before your trip. Because processing takes one to two weeks, plan ahead if you are traveling soon. If you are leaving within a few days, visit an AAA office in person for same-day service.

Your IDP expires even if your state driver's license does not. You could have a valid license but an expired IDP. Always carry both documents and check both expiration dates before crossing a border.

Cost and Payment Methods

An IDP costs between $15 and $20 through either AAA or AATA. The exact price may vary slightly by location or issuer. AAA accepts cash, check, and credit or debit card at offices. By mail, AAA accepts check or money order. AATA accepts credit and debit card for online applications.

There are no hidden fees or additional charges. The price you see is the total cost. Some AAA members receive a small discount, but the savings are usually $1 to $3. If you need a passport photo taken at an AAA office, that is an additional $5 to $10, but it is optional — you can bring your own photo.

Countries That Require or Recommend an IDP

An IDP is most often required or strongly recommended in Asia, Africa, South America, and Eastern Europe. Specific countries with strict requirements include China, India, Japan, Russia, Brazil, and Egypt. If you are renting a car in any of these places, the rental company will likely ask for an IDP.

In Canada, Mexico, and Western Europe (including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain), a valid U.S. driver's license is usually sufficient on its own. However, some rental companies in these regions may still request an IDP as an extra form of identification, so having one does not hurt.

Before you travel, contact your rental car company and ask whether they require an IDP for your destination. If you are unsure, getting one is inexpensive and takes little time, so it is often worth doing for peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with just an IDP and no state license?

No. An IDP is only a translation of your state license and is not valid on its own. You must carry both your state driver's license and your IDP when driving abroad. If you are stopped by police or asked by a rental company, you will need to show the state license as your actual authorization to drive.

What if my state license expires while I have a valid IDP?

Your IDP becomes invalid because it is tied to your state license. You cannot use an IDP with an expired license. If your license expires before your IDP does, renew your state license first, then explore for a new IDP if you still need one.

Do I need an IDP if I am only visiting a country and not renting a car?

No. An IDP is only needed if you plan to drive. If you are using taxis, public transportation, or a hired driver, you do not need an IDP. It has no other purpose than to accompany your license when you drive internationally.

Can I get an IDP if I have a learner's permit instead of a full license?

No. You must have a valid, full driver's license from your state to get an IDP. A learner's permit is not sufficient. Once you pass your road test and receive your full license, you can then explore for an IDP.

What happens if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact AAA or AATA from abroad to report the loss. You can request a replacement, though it may take time to arrive. In the meantime, your state driver's license alone may be enough in some countries, but not all. If you lose it, contact your rental company or local authorities to understand your options for continuing to drive legally.