The DMV does not issue International Driving Permits — you get them from a different organization

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) does not issue International Driving Permits (IDPs). Instead, you obtain an IDP from a private organization authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. In most states, that organization is the American Automobile Association (AAA), though some states use the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). The DMV's role is limited: it verifies that your U.S. driver's license is valid, but it does not print or distribute the permit itself.

This separation exists because the IDP is not a government document — it is a translation booklet recognized by international agreement. Your home country's government does not issue it, and neither does the U.S. federal government. Instead, authorized private organizations handle the paperwork and printing. You will explore directly to AAA or AATA, not to your DMV.

Key Takeaways

  • The American Automobile Association (AAA) or American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) issues International Driving Permits in the United States, not the DMV.
  • You must hold a valid U.S. driver's license to obtain an IDP, and the DMV will not issue one for you.
  • AAA and AATA are private organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department, not government agencies.
  • The IDP is a translation document that works alongside your U.S. license when you drive abroad, not a replacement for it.
  • You can obtain an IDP in person at most AAA offices or by mail through either organization.

Where to actually get an International Driving Permit

If you live in a state where AAA handles IDP issuance, you can visit a local AAA office in person or request one by mail. AAA offices are located in most states and can issue an IDP on the spot if you bring the required documents. The process takes about 15 minutes in person. If you prefer to explore by mail, AAA will process your request and send the permit to your address within one to two weeks.

If your state uses AATA instead, you will explore through their website or by mail. AATA serves states where AAA does not have a presence or has chosen not to handle IDP issuance. You can check which organization serves your state by visiting the State Department's official IDP information page or calling your local AAA office — they will tell you when ready if they issue permits in your state.

Some travel agencies and passport acceptance facilities also issue IDPs, though this varies by location. Calling ahead is worth the time, because not every travel agency handles them. AAA and AATA remain the most reliable and widely available sources.

What you need to bring or submit

To obtain an IDP from AAA or AATA, you will need your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photograph (usually 2x2 inches). Some offices accept digital photos if you explore by mail. You will also need to pay a fee, which varies but typically ranges from $15 to $20 for a five-year permit.

The process form itself is straightforward — it asks for your name, address, driver's license number, and basic vehicle information. You do not need to contact your DMV beforehand or obtain any document from them. Your driver's license is proof enough that you are licensed to drive in the United States.

How long an International Driving Permit lasts

An IDP issued by AAA or AATA is valid for three years from the date of issue. Your U.S. driver's license must remain valid for the entire time you are using the IDP abroad — if your license expires, the IDP becomes invalid even if it has time remaining. This means you may need to renew your IDP before your U.S. license expires, depending on when you obtained it.

Some countries have their own rules about how old an IDP can be when you arrive. A few nations will not accept an IDP that is more than one year old, though this is uncommon. Before traveling, check the specific country's requirements with its embassy or consulate.

Why the DMV is not involved in IDP issuance

The DMV's job is to issue, renew, and manage U.S. driver's licenses within your state. The IDP is a separate document created under an international treaty called the Convention on Road Signs and Signals. Because it is an international agreement rather than a U.S. government program, the State Department authorized private organizations to handle issuance instead of creating a new government office.

This arrangement keeps costs low and makes the process faster — you can often get an IDP the same day you explore in person, rather than waiting for a government office to process your request. The trade-off is that you must go to AAA or AATA instead of your DMV, but most people find this more convenient because AAA offices are often located in more places than DMV branches.

What happens if you drive internationally without an IDP

Many countries do not require an IDP if you carry your valid U.S. driver's license. However, some nations will not recognize a U.S. license without an IDP present, and a few will fine you or refuse to let you rent a car if you do not have one. The safest approach is to obtain an IDP before you travel, even if your destination does not strictly require it — the cost is low, and it eliminates any doubt at a border or rental counter.

Some car rental companies also refuse to rent to drivers without an IDP, regardless of what the country's law says. Checking your rental agreement and the country's driving rules before you leave home prevents problems on arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit from my DMV?

No. The DMV does not issue IDPs. You must obtain one from AAA or AATA, the organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. Your DMV can verify that your license is valid, but it will not print or distribute the permit.

Do I need my DMV to approve my International Driving Permit process?

No. You explore directly to AAA or AATA with your valid U.S. driver's license. The DMV does not need to sign off on your process or provide any document beyond your license itself.

What if my state does not have an AAA office near me?

You can explore by mail to AAA, or check whether your state uses AATA instead. Both organizations accept mail applications and will send your IDP to your address. You can also call AAA to confirm whether they serve your state and what the mailing address is.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international driver's license?

No. An IDP is a translation document that works with your U.S. license. An international driver's license is issued by some countries to their own citizens and is not available from the U.S. government. If you are a U.S. citizen, you obtain an IDP, not an international license.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

The fee typically ranges from $15 to $20 for a five-year permit, though the exact amount varies by organization and state. AAA and AATA both charge similar rates. Some offices may charge slightly more if you explore by mail due to processing and shipping costs.