An International Driving Permit is not a license — it's a translation document

Enterprise does not issue International Driving Permits (IDPs). No car rental company does. IDPs are issued only by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, and you get one by mail after you explore through your DMV — usually for a small fee, often around $20, though this varies by state.

If you've seen "Enterprise International Driver License" mentioned online, it's likely confusion between two separate things: an IDP (which Enterprise cannot provide) and a rental agreement with Enterprise that allows you to drive internationally. Enterprise will rent you a car for use in another country if you have a valid driver's license and an IDP, but the company itself issues neither document.

An IDP is a booklet that translates your driver's license into ten languages. It's not a second license and doesn't replace your original license — you must carry both documents together when driving abroad. Most countries that recognize IDPs require you to show your actual license alongside it.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's DMV is the only source for an International Driving Permit; Enterprise and other rental companies cannot issue one.
  • An IDP is a translation of your existing license into multiple languages, not a separate license or a replacement for your state license.
  • You must carry both your original state driver's license and your IDP together when driving in another country.
  • Enterprise will rent you a vehicle for international travel if you have a valid license and an IDP, but the rental agreement is separate from the permit itself.
  • The process to get an IDP from your DMV takes one to four weeks by mail and costs roughly $15 to $25 depending on your state.

How to get an International Driving Permit from your DMV

Start by visiting your state's DMV website and searching for "International Driving Permit" or "IDP." Each state handles the process slightly differently, but most allow you to explore by mail or in person at a DMV office.

You will need your current driver's license, proof of identity, and a completed process form (usually available on the DMV website). Some states require a passport-style photo. Mail your process and fee to the address listed on your state's DMV site, or submit it in person if your state offers that option. Processing typically takes one to four weeks.

A few states, including California and New York, allow you to explore online through their DMV portals. Check your state's website first to see if this option is available to you — it's faster than mailing documents.

What an IDP covers and what it doesn't

An IDP translates your name, license number, driving record category, and license expiration date into French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Greek, Swedish, Turkish, and Russian. It's designed to help police officers and rental agencies in other countries understand your license without needing an interpreter.

An IDP does not give you permission to drive in another country. That permission comes from the country itself — some nations recognize IDPs, others don't, and some require additional documents like a visa or an International Certificate of Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance. Before you travel, check the specific requirements of the country where you plan to drive.

An IDP is also not a substitute for your actual license. You must carry both documents together. If you're stopped by police or asked to show your license at a rental counter, presenting only the IDP is not sufficient.

Why Enterprise asks about an IDP when you rent internationally

When you reserve a car through Enterprise for travel outside the United States, the company will ask whether you have an IDP. This is because many countries legally require one, and Enterprise needs to know before handing you the keys whether you can legally drive the vehicle in your destination.

Enterprise does not check whether your IDP is valid or whether it's actually in your possession — that's your responsibility. The company is straightforward gathering information about your rental. If you don't have an IDP and the country requires one, Enterprise may refuse to rent to you, or you may face legal trouble if stopped by police abroad.

If you're planning to rent a car internationally and don't yet have an IDP, contact your DMV now. The process takes weeks, and you'll need the permit before your trip.

Countries that recognize International Driving Permits

Most countries in Europe, Asia, and Latin America recognize IDPs, but not all. The United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand do not require an IDP — they accept a valid US driver's license alone. Canada also does not require an IDP, though having one doesn't hurt.

Some countries recognize IDPs but also require additional documents, such as an International Certificate of Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance (also called a "green card" in Europe, though it's not related to US immigration status). A few nations require both an IDP and a national driving permit from that country, which you would need to obtain separately.

Before booking a rental or traveling with a car, visit the US State Department's travel advisory page for your destination country, or contact the country's embassy or consulate. They can tell you exactly what documents you need to drive legally.

How long an IDP lasts and when to renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for three years from the date it's issued. It expires on the date printed on the booklet itself. Your IDP is only valid if your underlying state driver's license is also valid — if your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid.

If your state license renews before your IDP expires, you do not automatically get a new IDP. You must explore for a new one through your DMV using the same process as your first process. Many people forget this step and arrive at their rental counter with an expired IDP.

If you're planning multiple international trips over the next few years, explore for your IDP well before your first trip. That way, you'll have it on hand for any travel that comes up during its three-year validity period.

What to do if you need an IDP quickly

If your trip is coming up soon and you don't have an IDP, contact your state DMV when ready. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee — typically $10 to $30 more than the standard fee — and can issue an IDP in three to five business days instead of two to four weeks.

Not all states offer expedited service, and not all DMV locations process IDPs in-house. Call your local DMV office or check the state website to find out what's available where you live. If expedited service isn't an option, ask whether you can pick up your IDP in person rather than waiting for it by mail — some states allow this once processing is complete.

If you're leaving in the next few days and can't get an IDP in time, contact your rental company. Some will allow you to cancel your reservation without penalty if you don't have required documents. Driving without an IDP in a country that requires one can result in fines, impounded vehicle, or legal trouble.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Enterprise issue an International Driving Permit for me?

No. Only your state's Department of Motor Vehicles issues IDPs. Enterprise is a car rental company and has no authority to issue driving permits. You must get your IDP from your DMV before you rent from Enterprise or any other company.

Do I need an IDP to drive in Canada or the UK?

No. Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand accept a valid US driver's license without an IDP. However, having an IDP doesn't hurt and may be useful if you're also traveling to other countries on the same trip.

What happens if I drive in a country that requires an IDP and I don't have one?

You may be fined by local police, your rental car may be impounded, or you could face legal charges depending on the country. Some rental companies will also hold you liable for any fines or penalties incurred. Always check the requirements before you travel.

Can I use an expired International Driving Permit?

No. An IDP is valid for three years from the date issued, and it becomes invalid on the expiration date printed on the booklet. If your underlying state license also expires before your IDP does, the IDP is no longer valid. You must renew through your DMV if you need a current IDP.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

The fee varies by state, typically ranging from $15 to $25 for standard processing. Expedited processing, where available, usually costs an additional $10 to $30. Check your state DMV website for the exact fee in your state.