You cannot get a real International Driving Permit online, but you can start the process there

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together. The IDP itself must be issued in person by an authorized organization in the United States, which means no website can issue you a real one, no matter what it claims.

The only organizations authorized to issue IDPs in the U.S. are the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Touring Association (ATA). Both require you to appear in person with your valid driver's license, proof of citizenship, and a passport-style photo. You cannot complete the entire transaction online, but you can research requirements, locate an office, and sometimes reserve an appointment through their websites before you go.

Websites that advertise "online International Driving Permits" are either selling documents that foreign countries will not recognize, charging you for information you can get free, or both. The IDP has no legal value outside the U.S. unless it was issued by AAA or ATA, and no country will accept one from any other source.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA and ATA are the only U.S. organizations authorized to issue International Driving Permits, and both require an in-person visit with your valid driver's license and a passport photo.
  • You cannot obtain a legitimate IDP entirely online, though you can check requirements and book an appointment through AAA or ATA websites before visiting.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years depending on which organization issues it and which country you are visiting.
  • Third-party websites selling online IDPs are not recognized by foreign governments and will not help you drive legally abroad.
  • You must carry your state driver's license and your IDP together; the IDP alone has no legal standing in any country.

What an International Driving Permit actually is and why you need one

The IDP is a United Nations-endorsed document that restates the information on your driver's license in multiple languages. It does not grant you permission to drive in another country — that permission comes from your valid U.S. driver's license and the laws of the country you are visiting. The IDP straightforward makes it easier for a police officer or rental car agent in another country to understand what your license says.

Some countries require an IDP by law if you are renting a car or driving. Others do not require it but strongly recommend it because local authorities may not read English. Before you travel, check the specific rules for the country and region you plan to visit — your rental car company can tell you whether an IDP is required for your booking, and your country's embassy website will state the legal requirement.

The IDP is not a work permit, a visa, or a replacement for any travel document. It is purely a translation aid for your existing driver's license. If your license is suspended, expired, or invalid in the U.S., an IDP will not make it valid abroad.

How to get an IDP through AAA

AAA is the larger of the two authorized issuers and has offices in all 50 states. To get an IDP from AAA, visit an AAA office in person with: your valid, unexpired driver's license; proof of U.S. citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers); and one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches).

You can find your nearest AAA office and check its hours on the AAA website. Some offices allow you to book an appointment online, which can reduce wait time. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes once you are at the counter. AAA issues the IDP on the spot, and you walk out with it the same day.

AAA charges $15 for an IDP valid for one year, or $20 for one valid for three years. You do not need to be an AAA member to obtain an IDP, though members may receive a small discount. If you are not sure whether your office offers appointments, call ahead — some locations operate on a walk-in basis only.

How to get an IDP through the American Touring Association

The American Touring Association (ATA) is a smaller network but operates in most states. Like AAA, ATA requires you to visit an office in person with your valid driver's license, proof of citizenship, and a passport photo. You can search for ATA offices on their website by state.

ATA charges $15 for a one-year IDP or $20 for a three-year IDP, matching AAA's pricing. Processing time is the same — you receive the document when ready after your visit. ATA offices are less common than AAA offices, so if you choose this route, confirm that an office is near you before making the trip.

Both AAA and ATA issue the same internationally recognized IDP document. The choice between them comes down to which office is closer to you and which has hours that fit your schedule.

Why online IDP websites are not legitimate

Many websites advertise International Driving Permits that you can obtain entirely online by uploading a photo and paying a fee. These documents are not issued by AAA or ATA and will not be recognized by foreign governments, rental car companies, or police officers abroad. Some of these sites are scams designed to collect payment and personal information; others are selling documents that have no legal standing outside the U.S.

Foreign authorities have no way to verify an IDP that did not come from an authorized U.S. organization. If you are stopped by police or denied a car rental because you presented an online IDP, the document will not protect you. You may face fines, be unable to rent a vehicle, or have legal trouble in the country you are visiting.

The legitimate IDP is inexpensive and quick to obtain in person. There is no reason to pay more for an online version that will not work.

Timeline and what to bring to your appointment

Plan to visit an AAA or ATA office at least one week before your trip, though same-day service is often possible if you walk in. If you need the IDP urgently, call the office first to confirm they have stock and can serve you that day.

Bring these documents and items:

  • Your valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship (passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or state ID)
  • One passport-style photo, 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months
  • Payment in cash or card (AAA and ATA accept both)

If you do not have a passport photo, many AAA offices and most pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens) can take one for you on the spot for $10 to $15. This adds time to your visit, so plan accordingly. Some offices may not have a photo service, so call ahead if you need one taken.

How long an IDP is valid and when to renew

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which validity period you paid for. The expiration date is printed on the front of the document. An IDP is only valid if your driver's license is also valid — if your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid.

You do not renew an IDP; you obtain a new one. If your IDP has expired or will expire during your trip, return to an AAA or ATA office and follow the same process as before. You will need a new photo, your current license, and proof of citizenship.

If you travel internationally more than once a year, the three-year IDP ($20) is usually more economical than buying a one-year permit each time. If you travel rarely, the one-year permit ($15) is sufficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Canada does not require an IDP; your valid U.S. driver's license is sufficient. Mexico does not legally require an IDP either, but Mexican authorities may not read English well, and rental car companies often request one. Check with your rental company before your trip to confirm whether they require it for your booking.

Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and unexpired at the time you obtain the IDP. If your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated. If your license is expired, renew it first, then obtain the IDP.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

An IDP is a paper document and cannot be replaced while you are abroad. If you lose it, you still have your valid U.S. driver's license, which is the actual legal document. You can drive with your license alone in most countries, though you may have difficulty renting a car without the IDP. When you return to the U.S., you can obtain a new IDP from AAA or ATA by repeating the in-person process.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International Driver's License?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document issued by AAA or ATA. An "International Driver's License" is not a real thing — it is a term used by scam websites to sell fake documents. The only legitimate document is the IDP from AAA or ATA.

Can I use an IDP to drive in the United States?

No. An IDP has no legal value in the U.S. You must carry your valid state driver's license to drive in America. The IDP is only for use outside the United States.