You obtain an International Driving Permit through your state's DMV, not through a federal office or online service

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together when driving outside the United States. The IDP is issued only by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, and you must explore in person at a DMV office. No online service, private company, or mail-order vendor can issue one.

The IDP is recognized in over 150 countries that are signatories to the 1926 Convention on Motor Traffic. It is particularly useful in countries where English is not widely spoken, or where rental car companies and police are unfamiliar with U.S. licenses. Some countries, including Canada and Mexico, do not require an IDP if your U.S. license is valid, but many rental agencies in Europe, Asia, and Latin America will not rent to you without one.

The process is straightforward: you visit your state DMV with your valid driver's license, proof of identity, and the required fee. Most states issue the permit on the spot or within a few days. The IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue.

Key Takeaways

  • You must obtain your IDP in person at a DMV office in the state where your driver's license is issued; no online or mail service can issue one.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, proof of identity, and payment — typically between $15 and $30 depending on your state.
  • The IDP is valid for three years and must be carried together with your physical U.S. driver's license when driving abroad.
  • Some countries do not require an IDP, but many rental car companies will refuse to rent without one, even in places where it is not legally required.

What documents and fees you need to bring to the DMV

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license — it must not be expired or suspended. The DMV will not issue an IDP if your license is invalid. You will also need a second form of identity, such as a passport, state ID card, or birth certificate. Some states accept only a passport.

The fee varies by state. Most states charge between $15 and $30. A few states charge more; some charge less. Call your state DMV before you go to confirm the exact amount and whether they accept cash, card, or both. Some DMV offices do not accept cards, so cash is the safest option.

You do not need a new photo or medical certificate. The IDP uses the photo and information already on your driver's license. You do not need to bring proof of residence, proof of insurance, or any other document beyond your license and identity.

How to find the DMV office that issues International Driving Permits

Not every DMV office issues IDPs. Many states concentrate this service at a single office or a small number of regional locations. Visit your state DMV's website and search for "International Driving Permit" or call the main DMV phone line and ask which office nearest you issues them.

Some states allow you to request an IDP by mail if you cannot visit in person, though this is uncommon. If your state offers mail service, you will mail your driver's license, a completed process form, and a check or money order. The DMV will return your license and the IDP together, usually within two to three weeks. Check your state's website to see whether mail service is available before you call.

A few states issue IDPs through AAA (American Automobile Association) membership offices. If you are a AAA member, call your local AAA office and ask whether they can issue an IDP on behalf of the state DMV. This is faster than visiting the DMV directly in some states, though the fee may be slightly higher.

What to expect during the process process

When you arrive at the DMV office, tell the staff member you are there for an International Driving Permit. You will fill out a short form — usually one page — that asks for your name, license number, date of birth, and the countries you plan to visit. The form is straightforward and takes fewer than five minutes to complete.

The staff member will verify that your driver's license is valid and not suspended. They will check your identity document. They will then print the IDP, which is a small booklet about the size of a passport. In most states, you receive it when ready. A few states mail it to you within a week.

The entire process, from arrival to departure, usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Bring your documents in a folder so they do not get lost in your bag. Arrive early if possible, as some DMV offices have long waits, especially on Fridays and near the end of the month.

State-by-state differences in IDP issuance

Most states follow the same basic process, but a few have specific rules. California, for example, issues IDPs only at select DMV offices in major cities; you cannot get one at every location. New York allows mail-in requests. Texas charges $20 and issues the permit on the spot. Florida charges $15 and also issues when ready.

Some states require you to complete the process form before you arrive; others provide it at the office. A few states ask you to bring a recent passport photo, though most do not. Because these details vary, call your state DMV's main line or visit the website before you go. This takes five minutes and prevents a wasted trip.

If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), you can still obtain an IDP using the same process. The IDP translates your CDL just as it translates a standard license.

How long the IDP is valid and what to do when it expires

An International Driving Permit is valid for three years from the date it is issued. Write the expiration date on the cover of the booklet so you do not forget it. If you plan to drive abroad after the expiration date, you must obtain a new IDP before you leave.

You cannot renew an IDP by mail or online. You must return to the DMV office in person with your expired IDP, your valid driver's license, proof of identity, and the fee. The process is identical to obtaining a new one. If your driver's license expires before your IDP does, you can still use the IDP as long as your license is valid — but if your license is suspended or revoked, your IDP becomes invalid when ready.

If you lose your IDP while traveling, contact your country's U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement, but they can provide a letter confirming that you hold a valid U.S. driver's license. Some rental car companies and police will accept this letter in place of the IDP, though it is not may provide. The safest approach is to make a photocopy of your IDP before you leave and keep it separate from the original.

Countries that require or strongly recommend an IDP

An IDP is legally required in most European countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom. It is also required in many Asian countries, including Japan, South Korea, and Thailand. In Latin America, it is required in Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina. Australia and New Zealand do not require an IDP by law, but many rental car companies will not rent to you without one.

Canada does not require an IDP. Your U.S. driver's license is sufficient for driving and car rental. Mexico does not legally require an IDP either, but some rental agencies ask for one. If you plan to drive in Mexico, check with your rental company before you book.

Even if a country does not legally require an IDP, having one can prevent confusion with police or rental staff who are unfamiliar with U.S. licenses. It is inexpensive insurance against delays or misunderstandings. If you are unsure whether you need one for your destination, contact the embassy of that country or ask your rental car company.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is expired?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and not suspended. If your license is expired, you must renew it at the DMV first, then return to obtain the IDP. You cannot use an expired license for the IDP process.

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am only visiting Canada or Mexico?

No. Canada does not require an IDP, and Mexico does not legally require one either. Your valid U.S. driver's license is sufficient for both countries. However, some Mexican rental car companies may ask for one, so check with your rental agency before you book.

What happens if I drive abroad without an International Driving Permit when one is required?

You may be fined by local police, and your rental car company may refuse to honor your rental agreement. In some countries, driving without the required documents can result in vehicle impoundment. If you are stopped, carry your U.S. license and passport at all times — they may satisfy local authorities even without the IDP, though this is not may provide.

Can I get an International Driving Permit through AAA instead of the DMV?

Some states allow AAA to issue IDPs on behalf of the state DMV. If you are a AAA member, call your local AAA office and ask. If they offer this service, it is usually faster than visiting the DMV, though the fee may be slightly higher. Not all states participate in this program.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit if I explore by mail?

If your state offers mail service, the process typically takes two to three weeks from the time the DMV receives your process to the time they mail the IDP back to you. Not all states offer mail service, so check your state DMV's website first. In-person applications are usually processed the same day.