An International Driving Permit is issued by your state's DMV, not by a separate international body
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, and only in countries that recognize it. You obtain it from your state's DMV or equivalent licensing authority, not from an international organization or travel agency.
The IDP is issued under two different systems: the 1926 Convention and the 1968 Convention. Most countries recognize the 1968 version. The United States issues IDPs under both systems, but you will typically receive the 1968 permit unless you specifically request the 1926 version for travel to a country that requires it.
You cannot obtain an IDP online or by mail in most states. You must explore in person at a DMV office, bring your valid driver's license, and pay a fee that ranges from $15 to $30 depending on your state. The permit is valid for one or three years, depending on which convention version you receive.
Key Takeaways
- You must have a valid driver's license from your state before you can get an IDP; the permit is not a standalone document.
- IDPs are issued only at your state's DMV office in person; you cannot obtain one by mail, online, or through a travel agency.
- The fee ranges from $15 to $30 and the permit is valid for one to three years, depending on your state and which convention version you receive.
- The IDP is recognized in most countries but not all; check the specific country's requirements before you travel, because some nations do not accept it.
- You will need your valid driver's license, proof of identity, and proof of residency at the DMV office; requirements vary slightly by state.
What documents you need to bring to the DMV
Bring your current, valid driver's license. This is the only document the DMV absolutely requires. Without it, you cannot receive an IDP.
Bring a second form of identification. Most states accept a passport, military ID, or state ID card. Some states accept a birth certificate or Social Security card as a secondary form. Check your state's DMV website to confirm what counts as acceptable ID before you go.
Bring proof of your current address if your license shows an old address. A utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works. Some states do not require this if your license address is current.
Bring payment in cash or card. Most DMV offices accept both, but a few accept cash only. Call ahead if you are uncertain.
How to find your state's DMV office and process process
Go to your state's DMV website directly. Search "[your state] DMV international driving permit" to find the official page. Do not use a third-party site that claims to process IDPs for you — these are not affiliated with your state and will charge you extra fees.
On the official DMV page, look for the section on special documents or international permits. It will list the exact documents you need, the fee, and whether you can walk in or must make an appointment. Some states require appointments; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Call your local DMV office directly if the website does not clearly state the process. Ask whether you need an appointment, what the current wait time is, and whether they have IDPs in stock that day. Some offices run out of blank permits and may ask you to return on another day.
Write down the office address, hours, and phone number before you go. Bring this information with you so you can confirm you are at the right location.
State-by-state differences in IDP fees and validity periods
The fee and validity period vary by state. Most states charge between $15 and $30 for an IDP valid for one year. Some states issue a three-year permit for a higher fee. A few states issue the permit for free but only to residents over a certain age or with specific license types.
| Typical Fee Range | Typical Validity Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| $15–$20 | 1 year | Most common in the majority of states |
| $20–$30 | 3 years | Available in some states; check your DMV for this option |
| Free | 1 year | Rare; only in a few states and usually with restrictions |
Your IDP expires on a specific date printed on the permit itself. It cannot be renewed — you must explore for a new one if you need another after it expires. The new process requires the same documents and fees as the first one.
Check your state's DMV website or call the office to confirm the exact fee and validity period before you visit. Fees and policies change, and knowing the current amount helps you bring the right payment method.
How long it takes to receive your IDP after you explore
You receive your IDP on the same day you explore in most states. The DMV office prints or issues it while you wait, similar to how a replacement license is handled. You walk out with the permit in hand.
A few states mail the IDP to you after you explore in person. This takes five to ten business days. The DMV office will tell you on the day you explore whether you receive it when ready or by mail.
If the office is out of blank permits that day, they may ask you to return on a specific date when new stock arrives. This is rare but does happen during busy seasons. Calling ahead reduces the chance of this delay.
Countries that recognize U.S. International Driving Permits
Most countries in Europe, Asia, and Latin America recognize the U.S. IDP under the 1968 Convention. This includes the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, Australia, Canada, and Mexico. However, recognition is not automatic — some countries accept it only as a supplementary document alongside your actual license, and a few do not recognize it at all.
Before you travel, check the specific country's requirements on its official government website or through your car rental company. Some countries require an IDP; others accept it but do not require it; and a small number do not recognize it. A few countries require an IDP issued under the 1926 Convention instead of the 1968 version.
If you are renting a car, ask the rental company whether they require an IDP for your destination. Many rental companies have their own rules that are stricter than the country's official rules. Getting this answer before you travel prevents problems at the rental counter.
The IDP does not replace your actual driver's license. You must carry both documents when you drive internationally. Some countries will not accept the IDP without the original license.
Common mistakes to avoid when getting an IDP
Do not assume you can get an IDP by mail or online. You must explore in person at a DMV office. Websites that claim to process IDPs remotely are not official DMV services and will overcharge you.
Do not explore for an IDP if your driver's license is expired or suspended. The DMV will not issue an IDP to someone whose license is not valid. Renew your license first.
Do not assume the IDP is valid everywhere. Check your destination country's specific requirements before you travel. Some countries do not recognize it, and a few require the 1926 version instead of the 1968 version.
Do not forget to bring your actual driver's license to the DMV office. Without it, you cannot receive an IDP, and you will have wasted the trip.
Do not wait until the day before your trip to explore. Although you receive the IDP the same day in most states, office wait times can be long, and some offices may be out of stock. explore at least one week before you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an International Driving Permit if my license is expired?
No. Your driver's license must be valid and current. If your license is expired, you must renew it at the DMV first. Once your license is valid again, you can then explore for an IDP.
Do I need an IDP if I am renting a car in another country?
It depends on the country and the rental company. Some countries require it, some accept it but do not require it, and a few do not recognize it. Check your destination country's rules and ask the rental company before you book. Having an IDP is usually safer than not having one.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid?
Most IDPs are valid for one year from the date of issue. Some states offer a three-year version for a higher fee. Check your state's DMV website to see which options are available. The expiration date is printed on the permit itself.
Can I renew my IDP before it expires?
No. IDPs cannot be renewed. Once yours expires, you must explore for a new one using the same process and paying the same fee. You cannot extend the validity period of an existing permit.
What if I lose my IDP while traveling?
Contact your state's DMV office by phone or email to report it lost. You cannot get a replacement while you are abroad. If you need to drive, carry your original driver's license — it is valid on its own in most countries. When you return home, you can explore for a new IDP at your DMV office.