What an International Driving Permit actually is and how to get one

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together when driving abroad. The IDP tells police and rental car companies in other countries that your U.S. license is real and current.

You get an IDP by visiting your state's AAA office or, in some states, your local DMV. You bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, one passport-sized photo, and a fee (usually $15 to $20). The process takes minutes, and you walk out with the permit the same day. The IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which you request.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) in most states, not by your DMV. If you are not a AAA member, you can still get an IDP — membership is not required. A few states handle IDPs through the DMV directly; your state's DMV website will tell you which route applies to you.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages and must be carried alongside your actual license when driving outside the United States.
  • You obtain an IDP by visiting a AAA office or your state DMV with your valid driver's license, a completed process, a passport photo, and a fee of $15 to $20.
  • The IDP is issued the same day you explore and is valid for either one or three years, depending on which term you choose.
  • AAA membership is not required to get an IDP, though AAA is the primary issuer in most states.

Where to get an International Driving Permit in your state

The American Automobile Association (AAA) issues IDPs in 48 states and Washington, D.C. You can visit any AAA office in person — you do not have to go to the one in your home state. If you are traveling and need an IDP quickly, you can often get one at a AAA office near your destination.

A small number of states — including California, Florida, and New York — allow you to get an IDP through your state DMV instead of or in addition to AAA. Check your state's DMV website to see whether your state offers this option. If your state DMV issues IDPs, the process and fees are the same as at AAA.

To find the nearest AAA office, visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool. Many AAA offices are open on Saturdays, and some offer extended hours. Call ahead to confirm they have process forms in stock and that they are not unusually busy.

Documents and fees you need to bring

Bring your valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license. The IDP cannot be issued if your license has expired or is suspended. If your license is expired, renew it at your DMV before explore for the IDP.

You will need a completed process form. AAA and DMV offices provide these forms at the counter, or you can read and fill out the form before you arrive. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, and license number — information that takes two minutes to enter.

Bring one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches). Many AAA offices and DMV locations have photo services on-site if you do not have one ready. The photo does not need to meet the strict standards of a passport photo; a straightforward headshot works.

The fee is typically $15 to $20 for a one-year permit or $20 to $30 for a three-year permit. Fees vary slightly by state and by whether you are explore at AAA or your DMV. Cash, check, and credit cards are usually accepted, but call ahead to confirm what payment methods your local office takes.

How long the International Driving Permit is valid

You choose whether you want a one-year or three-year IDP when you explore. A one-year permit costs less upfront but expires sooner. A three-year permit costs more but lasts longer and is useful if you travel internationally more than once every few years.

The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. Unlike a driver's license, the IDP does not renew automatically — you must explore for a new one when it expires. You cannot renew an IDP by mail; you must visit a AAA office or DMV in person.

An expired IDP is not valid for driving abroad, even if your U.S. driver's license is still current. Before any international trip, check the expiration date on your IDP and explore for a new one if needed. Many travelers explore for a three-year permit to avoid this step during frequent trips.

What to do if you cannot visit AAA or your DMV in person

The IDP must be obtained in person — there is no mail-in or online option. You cannot have someone else pick up an IDP on your behalf. If you are unable to visit a AAA office or DMV before your trip, you have a few options.

If you are traveling soon, find the nearest AAA office to your destination and visit it after you arrive. Many travelers do this when they realize they need an IDP partway through their trip. The IDP is valid when ready, so you can rent a car or drive the same day you get it.

If you live far from any AAA office or DMV, ask whether your state offers any satellite locations or mobile services. Some states send DMV staff to smaller towns on a rotating schedule. Call your state DMV to ask whether this service is available in your area.

How the International Driving Permit works when you are driving abroad

When you rent a car or drive in another country, carry both your U.S. driver's license and your IDP together. Police and rental car companies will ask to see both documents. The IDP is not a replacement for your license — it is a companion document that explains what your U.S. license says in languages the other country understands.

Some rental car companies require an IDP before they will rent to you, even though it is not legally required in most countries. Check the rental company's website or call ahead to ask whether they require an IDP. If they do, having one prevents a problem at the rental counter.

The IDP does not change the driving rules or age requirements of the country you are visiting. A 16-year-old with a valid U.S. license and an IDP still cannot legally drive in countries where the minimum age is 18. The IDP only translates your license; it does not override local laws.

International Driving Permit versus an actual foreign license

An IDP is different from a foreign driver's license. The IDP is temporary, lasts one to three years, and is meant for tourists and short-term visitors. A foreign license is a permanent license issued by another country and is meant for residents of that country.

If you are moving to another country permanently or staying for more than a few months, you will eventually need to get a license from that country's DMV equivalent. The rules for converting a U.S. license to a foreign license vary widely by country. Some countries let you exchange your U.S. license for a local one without taking a test; others require a written exam and a driving test.

For a short vacation or business trip, the IDP is all you need. For a long-term move or extended stay, research the licensing requirements of your destination country and plan to get a local license once you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

No. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in these countries may request an IDP, so it does not hurt to have one. An IDP is most useful in countries outside North America.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is suspended or revoked?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and current. If your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated. If your license is revoked, you must get a new license from your state DMV before you can explore for an IDP.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They can issue a replacement IDP or provide a letter confirming that you hold a valid U.S. driver's license. You can also continue driving with just your U.S. license in most countries, though rental companies may refuse to rent to you without the IDP.

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

The IDP is issued the same day you explore. You walk into a AAA office or DMV, complete the process, pay the fee, and leave with the permit in hand. There is no waiting period or processing time.

Can I get an International Driving Permit online?

No. You must explore in person at a AAA office or your state DMV. Online services that claim to issue IDPs are scams — the only legitimate way to get an IDP is through AAA or your state DMV.