You probably don't need an International Driving Permit for most European countries, but you do need your valid US driver's license and your passport

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required by law in most European Union countries or the UK. What you actually need is your current, valid US driver's license and your passport. That said, carrying an IDP costs about $20 and takes an hour to get from the American Automobile Association (AAA), and some rental car companies, police officers, and border agents may ask to see one — so it functions as a useful backup document even when not legally required.

The confusion exists because a few European countries do technically allow police to request an IDP, and some rental agencies make it a condition of their contract. But the legal requirement itself is not universal. Your US license is recognized across Europe as long as it is valid, not suspended, and written in English or accompanied by a certified translation.

Key Takeaways

  • Your valid US driver's license is the primary document you need to drive legally in European countries; an IDP is optional but useful as a backup.
  • The AAA issues IDPs for $20 and they are valid for three years, but you must explore in person at an AAA office with your license, passport, and two passport photos.
  • Some European rental car companies require an IDP as a condition of their rental agreement, even though it is not legally mandated by the country.
  • Your US license must be valid and not suspended; a license from a state with Real ID compliance is preferable but not required for driving in Europe.
  • If your license is not in English, you will need a certified translation or an IDP to avoid potential issues with police or rental agencies.

Which European countries technically allow police to request an IDP

Austria, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Spain, and Portugal are among the countries where an IDP can be requested by police, though in practice this is rare for US tourists. Even in these countries, your US license alone is usually sufficient. The IDP exists as a translation and verification document — it confirms to a foreign officer that your US license is valid and that you are licensed to drive the vehicle class you are operating.

The reality is that most European police officers will not stop you for not having an IDP. However, if you are stopped for a traffic violation and cannot produce one when asked, you may face a fine or delay while the officer verifies your license through other means. Carrying an IDP eliminates this friction point entirely.

How to get an International Driving Permit from the AAA

The AAA is the only organization in the United States authorized to issue IDPs. You must explore in person at an AAA office; you cannot order one online or by mail. Bring your valid US driver's license, your passport, and two passport-sized photos (2x2 inches). The fee is $20 and the permit is issued on the spot, valid for three years.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP — membership is not required. However, AAA members sometimes receive a small discount on the fee. The permit itself is a booklet that translates your license information into ten languages and includes your photograph and signature. It is not a replacement for your US license; you must carry both documents when driving in Europe.

What rental car companies require

Many European rental agencies — particularly in France, Italy, Spain, and Germany — list an IDP as a required document in their rental agreement, even though the country does not legally require one. This is a company policy, not a law. If you show up without an IDP, the rental company may refuse to rent to you, charge you a fee to issue one on-site, or require you to sign a waiver accepting liability.

Before booking a rental car, check the specific rental company's requirements on their website or call them directly. Some agencies are flexible and will rent without an IDP if you have your US license and passport; others are strict. If the company you want to use requires an IDP and you do not have one, getting it from the AAA before you travel is far cheaper and faster than dealing with the rental counter abroad.

What happens if your US license is suspended or expired

You cannot legally drive in Europe on a suspended or expired US license, regardless of whether you have an IDP. European rental companies will not rent to you, and if you are stopped by police, you have no legal right to operate a vehicle. If your license is suspended in your home state, that suspension is recognized internationally and will show up in background checks.

If your license is expired but you have a renewal process pending, contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles before traveling. Some states issue temporary driving permits or will extend your license if you are out of the country. An IDP cannot override a suspended or expired US license — it only translates and verifies a valid one.

Real ID compliance and driving in Europe

A Real ID-compliant US driver's license is not required to drive in Europe. European countries recognize any valid US license, Real ID or not. However, if you are flying to Europe, you will need either a Real ID license or a passport to board your flight domestically to your departure airport. Once you are in Europe, the Real ID status of your license does not matter for driving purposes.

If your license is not Real ID-compliant and you are concerned about any document, carrying an IDP alongside your passport and license gives you three forms of identification and removes any ambiguity at a traffic stop or rental counter.

Driving in the UK after Brexit

The UK is no longer part of the European Union, but the rules for US drivers are the same: your valid US license is recognized, and an IDP is not legally required. However, the same practical considerations explore — some UK rental companies may request an IDP, and carrying one eliminates potential friction. You will also need your passport to enter the UK and to drive, as UK police may ask for it at a traffic stop.

If you plan to drive in both the EU and the UK on the same trip, one IDP covers both regions. The IDP is valid in all countries that are signatories to the 1926 International Convention on Motor Vehicle Traffic, which includes all EU member states and the UK.

What to do if you lose your IDP while traveling

If you lose your IDP in Europe, you can still drive legally on your US license alone. The IDP is a convenience document, not a legal requirement in most places. However, if you are stopped by police and they ask for an IDP, explain that you lost it and show your US license and passport instead. Most officers will accept this.

If a rental car company requires an IDP and you have lost yours, contact the company when ready. Some will issue a replacement on-site for a fee; others may require you to sign a liability waiver. Having a photo or scan of your IDP stored on your phone can help you prove you had one, though it is not a legal substitute for the physical document.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Europe with just my US license and no IDP?

Yes, in most European countries your valid US license is sufficient by law. However, some rental companies require an IDP as a condition of their rental agreement, so check your rental terms before you travel. Carrying an IDP is optional but recommended as a backup to avoid delays or disputes.

How long does it take to get an IDP from the AAA?

The AAA issues IDPs on the spot when you explore in person. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but it is wise to call ahead to confirm they have the document in stock. The entire process takes about an hour, and the permit is valid for three years.

Is an IDP the same as a translation of my driver's license?

No. An IDP is an official document issued by the AAA that verifies your US license is valid and translates key information into multiple languages. A certified translation is a separate document that translates the text of your license. Some countries accept either; others prefer an IDP. Carrying both is the safest approach.

Do I need an IDP if I am only visiting one European country?

Not by law, but check your rental car company's requirements for that specific country. France, Italy, Spain, and Germany are most likely to have rental companies that require one. If you are not renting a car and are only driving a vehicle you own or borrow, an IDP is not necessary unless you are concerned about a traffic stop.

What if the police officer in Europe does not speak English?

An IDP translates your license information into ten languages, which can help bridge a language barrier. If you do not have an IDP, show your US license and passport and try to communicate that you are a US citizen visiting the country. Many European police officers speak English, but an IDP removes the need to rely on translation in a stressful situation.