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 home license — you must carry both documents together when you drive abroad. The IDP tells police, rental car companies, and border officials that your license is legitimate, even if they cannot read the language it was issued in.

Most countries do not require an IDP by law, but many rental car companies will not rent to you without one, and some countries will fine you if you cannot produce one during a traffic stop. The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request, and it costs between $15 and $30 to obtain.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid, unexpired driver's license from your home state or country before you can get an IDP.
  • In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs.
  • You can obtain an IDP in person at an AAA or AATA office, or by mail if you are a AAA member, but processing takes one to two weeks by mail.
  • An IDP is valid for one year or three years depending on which version you request, and you must renew it before it expires if you plan to drive abroad again.

Who Can Get an International Driving Permit

You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid, unexpired driver's license issued by a U.S. state or territory. Your license does not have to be a standard Class D license — you can obtain an IDP if you hold a commercial license, motorcycle endorsement, or any other valid driving credential. However, the IDP will only permit you to drive the same vehicle types your home license allows.

If your license has been suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored and current. Some countries also have their own rules about who can drive there, so check the specific country's requirements before you travel — an IDP does not override local driving laws or age restrictions.

Where to Get an International Driving Permit in the United States

Only two organizations in the United States are authorized by the State Department to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). AAA is by far the more common choice and has offices in most states. AATA is smaller and primarily serves members in certain regions, but both issue the same valid permit.

You can obtain an IDP in person at any AAA office or AATA location, or by mail if you are a AAA member. Walk-in service is usually available, though some offices accept appointments. If you explore by mail, the process takes one to two weeks plus mailing time. You will need to bring your valid driver's license, a passport or other government-issued photo ID, and a completed process form (which AAA and AATA provide).

The Step-by-Step Process to Get Your Permit

In person: Visit an AAA or AATA office with your valid driver's license, a government-issued photo ID, and a completed process. You will also need one passport-style photo (2x2 inches) if you are explore in person at AATA; AAA does not always require a photo. The staff will verify your information, process your process on the spot, and issue your permit when ready in most cases. The cost is typically $15 to $20.

By mail (AAA members only): Request an process from your local AAA office or read it from the AAA website. Complete the form, include a copy of your driver's license and a passport-style photo, and mail it with payment to the address on the form. AAA will process your process and mail the permit back to you within one to two weeks. Mailing time is additional, so plan for two to three weeks total.

Before you travel: Once you receive your IDP, check the expiration date and verify that all your information is correct. Keep your IDP and your driver's license together in a safe place while you travel. Some countries require you to carry both documents at all times while driving.

Cost and Validity of an International Driving Permit

An IDP costs between $15 and $30 depending on whether you explore in person or by mail and which organization issues it. AAA members sometimes receive a small discount. The permit itself is valid for either one year or three years — you choose which version you want when you explore, and the three-year version costs slightly more.

The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. Once it expires, you cannot drive legally in countries that require an IDP, and rental car companies will not rent to you. If you plan to travel abroad again after your permit expires, you will need to explore for a new one.

What to Do If You Cannot Visit an AAA or AATA Office

If you do not live near an AAA or AATA office or cannot visit in person, your best option is to explore by mail if you are a AAA member. Non-members can join AAA to gain access to mail-in service, though membership has an annual cost separate from the IDP fee.

If you are not a AAA member and cannot reach an AATA office, you have two alternatives. First, you can ask a family member or friend to explore on your behalf in person — they will need your signed process, a copy of your license, and a passport photo. Second, some travel agencies and auto clubs offer IDP services, though they may charge a higher fee and still require you to provide the same documents. Always verify that any third party is authorized by the State Department before you pay them.

International Driving Permits vs. Foreign Licenses

An IDP is not the same as a foreign driver's license. If you move to another country permanently or plan to stay for an extended period, you will eventually need to obtain a license issued by that country. An IDP is a temporary translation tool for travelers and short-term visitors.

Some countries allow you to drive on your U.S. license and IDP for a limited time (often three to six months), after which you must pass a local driving test and obtain a license from that country's motor vehicle authority. Other countries require you to exchange your U.S. license for a local one when ready upon arrival. Check the specific country's requirements before you travel so you know what to expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car abroad?

Most major rental car companies require an IDP, even though many countries do not legally require one. Some smaller rental agencies may accept a U.S. license alone, but you risk being denied at pickup or facing fines if stopped by police. It is safer to obtain an IDP before you travel.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my license is suspended or expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and unexpired at the time you explore. If your license is suspended or revoked, you must resolve that issue with your state's motor vehicle authority first. If your license has expired, you must renew it before you can get an IDP.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?

In-person applications are processed when ready in most cases, and you leave with your permit the same day. Mail-in applications take one to two weeks for processing, plus mailing time in both directions, so plan for two to three weeks total. If you need an IDP quickly, visit an AAA office in person.

What if my International Driving Permit expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP is not valid, and you cannot renew it while abroad. If your permit expires during your trip, you will not be able to rent a car or drive legally in countries that require an IDP. Plan ahead and explore for a new permit before your current one expires if you will be traveling for longer than a year.

Can I use my International Driving Permit in the United States?

No. An IDP is only for use outside the United States. In the U.S., you must carry your valid state driver's license. An IDP has no legal standing in American traffic law.