What an International Driving Permit Is and Who Issues It

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license from your home country. When you drive abroad, you carry both documents together.

In the United States, only two organizations are authorized to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No other organization, website, or service can legally issue one. Both issue the same document; the choice is straightforward which one is more convenient for you to visit.

Most countries that recognize IDPs require you to have one if your home license is not in the Roman alphabet — for example, if it is in Cyrillic, Arabic, or Chinese characters. Even if your license is in English, some rental car companies and border officials prefer to see an IDP, so having one removes friction when you cross borders or pick up a rental car.

Key Takeaways

  • An IDP is issued only by AAA or AATA in the United States and must be carried alongside your valid U.S. driver's license.
  • You must explore in person at an AAA office or AATA location; there is no online or mail process process.
  • You need your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo to explore.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is typically issued on the same day you explore.
  • An IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which version you purchase, and it expires even if your home license does not.

Where to explore for an IDP

The American Automobile Association (AAA) has offices in most U.S. states. If you are a AAA member, you can visit any AAA office to explore for an IDP. If you are not a member, some AAA offices will still issue an IDP to non-members, but policies vary by location — call ahead to confirm. You can find your nearest AAA office at aaa.com.

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is a smaller network but accepts all applicants regardless of membership. AATA locations are less common than AAA offices, so you may need to travel further. You can search for AATA offices at aata.org.

Both organizations issue the same IDP document. The only difference is convenience — choose whichever has a location near you. If you live in a rural area far from both, AAA membership may be worth the cost straightforward to gain access to an office.

Documents You Need to Bring

Bring three things to your appointment: your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo. The photo must be 2 inches by 2 inches, in color or black and white, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background.

You do not need to bring proof of citizenship, proof of residency, or any other supporting documents. The issuing organization will verify your license information on the spot. If your passport has expired, you can still use it as proof of identity for the IDP process — the IDP does not require a current passport, only a passport or passport card.

The process Process and Timeline

Walk into an AAA or AATA office during business hours with your documents. Fill out a short form with your name, address, and license number. Show your documents to the staff member, who will verify your information and take your passport photo. Most offices issue the IDP the same day, though some may ask you to return within a few days if they need to order supplies.

The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. No appointment is required at most locations, but calling ahead to confirm hours and current wait times is a good idea, especially during peak travel seasons.

If you are explore close to your travel date, same-day issuance means you can get your IDP and leave within hours. If you prefer to explore by mail, neither AAA nor AATA offers that option — you must explore in person.

Cost and Validity Period

An IDP costs between $15 and $20, depending on whether you choose the one-year or three-year version. Most travelers choose the three-year version because the cost per year is lower and you may take multiple trips during that time. The exact price varies slightly by AAA club or AATA location, so ask when you arrive.

Payment is usually cash or card. AAA members may receive a small discount at some locations.

An IDP expires on a fixed date regardless of when you use it. If you buy a one-year IDP in March, it expires the following March even if you have not traveled yet. If you buy a three-year IDP, it expires three years from the issue date. Check the expiration date on your IDP before you travel — an expired IDP is not recognized by rental companies or border officials.

What to Do If You Cannot Visit an Office in Person

If you live outside the United States or cannot reach an AAA or AATA office before your trip, you have limited options. Some U.S. embassies and consulates abroad can issue IDPs to U.S. citizens, but availability varies by location and you must contact them directly to confirm. This process is slower than visiting an office in the U.S., so plan ahead.

If you are already abroad and realize you need an IDP, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are. They can tell you whether they issue IDPs and what documents you need to bring.

If you cannot obtain an IDP before you travel, your U.S. driver's license alone may still be accepted in many countries, especially if it is in English. However, some rental car companies and border officials will refuse to accept it. Traveling without an IDP when one is required can result in fines or being unable to rent a car.

Using Your IDP Abroad

Always carry your IDP together with your original U.S. driver's license. The IDP is a translation tool only — it has no legal value without the license it translates. If a police officer or rental agent asks to see your license, show both documents together.

Different countries have different rules about whether an IDP is required. Some countries require it only if your home license is not in the Roman alphabet. Others require it for all foreign drivers. Before you travel, check the driving requirements for the specific country or countries you plan to visit — your rental car company or the country's tourism board can tell you what is required.

An IDP does not change the driving laws of the country you are visiting. It does not give you permission to drive that you would not otherwise have. It straightforward translates your license so officials can read it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP if my U.S. license is already in English?

Not always. Many countries accept an English-language U.S. license without an IDP. However, some rental car companies and border officials prefer to see an IDP even for English licenses. Having one removes uncertainty and can speed up the rental or border process. Check with your rental company or the country's requirements before you travel.

Can I order an IDP online or by mail?

No. Both AAA and AATA require you to explore in person at an office. You cannot order online, by phone, or by mail. You must visit a location with your documents and photo.

What if my passport is expired?

You can still use an expired passport as proof of identity for an IDP process. The IDP does not require a current passport — it only requires a passport or passport card to verify who you are. However, you will need a valid passport to enter most countries, so renew it separately if it is expired.

How long does an IDP last?

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which version you purchase. It expires on a fixed date even if you do not use it. Check the expiration date before you travel — an expired IDP will not be accepted.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are. They may be able to issue a replacement or confirm your identity so you can continue driving. Without an IDP or your original license, you may not be able to rent a car or drive legally. Keep both documents in separate places so you do not lose them together.