What an International Driving Permit actually is

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 tells police, rental companies, and border officials in other countries that your home license is real and current.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) in the United States. You cannot get one from your state's DMV. The permit costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years, depending on which you choose. It is recognized in over 150 countries that are signatories to the 1926 Convention on Motor Traffic.

You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car, drive, or own a vehicle in another country. Some rental companies outside the US will not rent to you without one, even if your US license is valid. Many countries do not recognize English-language documents, so the IDP's translations remove that barrier.

Key Takeaways

  • An IDP is a translation booklet issued by AAA or AATA, not a replacement license, and you must carry your US driver's license with it at all times.
  • You can get an IDP in person at an AAA office or by mail through AATA, and the process takes minutes in person or one to two weeks by mail.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired US driver's license to get an IDP, and the permit is valid for one or three years from the date of issue.
  • An IDP costs $15 to $20 and is recognized in over 150 countries, but some countries have additional or different requirements you should check before traveling.

Getting an IDP in person at AAA

The fastest way to get an IDP is to visit an AAA office in person. You will need your valid US driver's license, one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and the fee in cash or card. The process takes about 15 minutes, and you walk out with the permit the same day.

Not all AAA offices issue IDPs — call ahead or check the AAA website to find a location near you that does. AAA membership is not required to get an IDP, but members sometimes receive a small discount. If you do not have a passport photo ready, many AAA offices can take one on-site for an additional fee of $10 to $15.

Bring your original driver's license, not a copy. The staff member will verify it is current and matches your photo. If your license is expired or will expire within six months, you should renew it at your state DMV before explore for the IDP.

Getting an IDP by mail through AATA

If no AAA office is near you, you can order an IDP by mail from the American Automobile Touring Alliance. You fill out an process form, include a copy of your driver's license, one passport-style photo, and payment, then mail everything to AATA's processing center. The permit arrives in one to two weeks.

AATA's process form is available on their website. You will need to print it, fill it out by hand, and include a photocopy of your driver's license (front and back). Mail the form, photo, and payment to the address listed on the form. Payment is by check or money order — AATA does not accept credit cards by mail.

Keep a copy of what you send in case the mail is lost. AATA will send you a tracking number if you request one, though standard mail does not include tracking. If your permit does not arrive within three weeks, contact AATA to check the status.

What happens if your driver's license expires or is suspended

An IDP is only valid if your US driver's license is valid. If your license expires, is suspended, or is revoked, your IDP becomes invalid when ready, even if the permit itself has not expired. You cannot use an expired or suspended license to drive in another country, and the IDP will not override that.

If you are traveling soon and your license will expire during your trip, renew it at your state DMV before you leave. If your license is currently suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated.

If you already have an IDP and your license is suspended after you receive it, do not use the IDP to drive abroad. The permit is tied to your license status, and driving on a suspended license in another country can result in arrest, fines, or confiscation of your vehicle.

Choosing between a one-year and three-year permit

When you explore for an IDP, you choose whether you want it valid for one year or three years from the date of issue. The one-year permit costs $15 to $20, and the three-year permit costs the same or slightly more depending on the issuer. Most travelers choose the three-year option because the cost difference is small and the permit lasts longer.

The three-year permit makes sense if you travel internationally more than once every few years or if you own property abroad. The one-year permit is sufficient if you are taking a single trip and do not plan to drive internationally again soon. Remember that the permit is only valid while your US driver's license is valid, so if your license expires before the IDP does, you will need a new IDP when you renew your license.

What to bring and what to expect at the office or in the mail

For an in-person visit to AAA, bring your valid, unexpired US driver's license, one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and $15 to $20 in cash or a card. The staff will check your license, verify your identity, take your information, and print the permit on the spot. The entire visit takes 10 to 20 minutes.

For a mail process through AATA, print the process form from their website, include a photocopy of your driver's license (both sides), one passport-style photo, and a check or money order for the fee. Mail everything to the address on the form. Processing takes one to two weeks from the date AATA receives your process.

Your IDP will be a small booklet with your name, license number, and photo, plus translations of your driving information in ten languages. Keep it with your US driver's license at all times when driving abroad. The permit itself does not expire until the date printed on it, but it is invalid if your US license expires or is suspended before that date.

Countries with additional or different requirements

While the IDP is recognized in over 150 countries, some countries have additional rules or do not accept it at all. Before you travel, check the specific country's driving requirements through its embassy website or your rental car company. Some countries require an IDP plus an official translation of your license, a separate national permit, or a local license obtained in that country.

Australia, for example, recognizes the IDP but also requires that you carry an English translation of your license if your license is not in English. Japan accepts the IDP but requires that you also have an International Driving Permit issued by the Japan Automobile Federation if you plan to stay longer than one year. Some countries in the Middle East and Africa do not recognize the IDP and require a local license or a different type of permit.

Rental car companies often have their own rules separate from the country's laws. Some will not rent to you without an IDP, while others will rent with just your US license. Always contact the rental company before you book to confirm what documents they require.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in another country with just my US driver's license and no IDP?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Some countries accept a US license alone, while others require an IDP or an official translation. Most rental car companies outside the US will not rent to you without an IDP, even if the country does not legally require one. Check with your destination country's embassy and your rental company before you travel.

What if I lose my IDP while I am traveling?

Contact the US embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They can issue a replacement IDP or a letter confirming your US license status. Keep a photocopy of your IDP and your US license in a separate location so you have proof if the originals are lost. Some rental companies will also issue a temporary document if you lose your permit while renting from them.

Do I need an IDP if I am only visiting another country and not driving?

No. An IDP is only needed if you plan to drive or rent a vehicle. If you are using public transportation, taxis, or hired drivers, you do not need an IDP. However, it is a good idea to carry it anyway in case you decide to rent a car during your trip.

How long does it take to get an IDP if I explore by mail?

AATA typically processes mail applications in one to two weeks from the date they receive your process. Add time for your mail to reach them and for the permit to return to you. If you are traveling soon, explore in person at an AAA office instead, where you can get the permit the same day.

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

No. Your license must be valid and unexpired to get an IDP. If your license is expired, renew it at your state DMV first, then explore for the IDP. If your license will expire soon, you can still get an IDP, but renew your license before you travel so the IDP remains valid during your trip.