What an International Driving Permit actually is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license. You must carry both documents together — the IDP alone is not valid. Most countries that recognize IDPs require you to show your actual license alongside it.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) in the United States. These are the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. No other company or website can legally issue an IDP.

An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. It does not extend your license validity — if your driver's license expires in six months, your IDP expires when your license does, whichever comes first.

Key Takeaways

  • You must obtain your IDP from either AAA or AATA in person; neither organization issues them by mail or online.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or other government ID, and a passport-sized photo to get an IDP.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 depending on which organization you use, and processing takes minutes to hours on the same day.
  • An IDP is valid for one year and must be carried with your actual driver's license at all times when driving abroad.
  • Not all countries recognize IDPs, so you should check your destination country's requirements before you travel.

Where to get an International Driving Permit

AAA has over 1,000 offices across the United States. You can find your nearest office on the AAA website and visit in person during business hours. AAA membership is not required to obtain an IDP, though members may receive a small discount. Walk-ins are usually accepted, but calling ahead to confirm hours is wise.

AATA has fewer physical locations than AAA, primarily in larger cities. You can search for AATA offices on their website. Like AAA, AATA does not require membership to issue an IDP.

Both organizations process IDPs on the spot. You will receive your permit the same day in most cases, though some offices may take a few hours if they are busy. There is no mail option and no online ordering — you must appear in person.

Documents you need to bring

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license. It must not be expired. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP.

Bring a government-issued photo ID in addition to your driver's license. A U.S. passport, passport card, or state ID card all work. This second ID confirms your identity.

Bring one passport-sized photo, typically 2 by 2 inches. Most AAA and AATA offices can take the photo for you on site for a small fee if you do not have one ready. Some offices require you to bring your own; call ahead to ask.

Bring cash or a card to pay the fee. AAA and AATA accept both, though some smaller offices may be cash-only.

The cost and how long it takes

AAA charges $15 for an IDP if you are a member and $20 if you are not. AATA charges $20 for all applicants. Prices do not vary by state or location within each organization.

Processing happens while you wait. Most people receive their IDP within 15 to 30 minutes. If the office is very busy, it may take up to an hour, but same-day issuance is standard.

Your IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If you are traveling more than a year from now, you can wait to get your IDP closer to your trip. If you are traveling within the year, get it now.

Which countries recognize International Driving Permits

Most countries in Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa recognize IDPs. However, not every country does, and some countries have specific rules about when an IDP is required versus optional.

The United Kingdom, Ireland, and several other nations do not recognize IDPs at all. Instead, they accept U.S. driver's licenses directly, sometimes with an official translation. Some countries require an IDP only if your license is in a non-Latin alphabet (such as Russian or Arabic).

Before you travel, check the driving requirements for your specific destination country on its government tourism or transportation website. The U.S. State Department also publishes country-by-country driving information. Do not assume an IDP is needed — some countries do not use them, and carrying one will not help.

What to do if you lose your IDP while traveling

If you lose your IDP abroad, you still have your original U.S. driver's license. In most countries, your license alone is sufficient to drive legally, even without the IDP. The IDP is a convenience, not a requirement in most places.

If you are in a country that specifically requires an IDP and you have lost it, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They can provide guidance on local driving laws and may be able to help you obtain a replacement or temporary document. Do not attempt to drive without the proper documents if your destination country requires them.

When you return to the United States, you can get a replacement IDP from AAA or AATA using the same process as your first one. There is no penalty for replacement — you straightforward pay the standard fee again.

International Driving Permit vs. other options for driving abroad

Some countries accept a certified English translation of your U.S. driver's license instead of an IDP. You can obtain a certified translation through the American Automobile Association, a notary public, or a translation service. This option costs $10 to $50 depending on the provider and is useful if you are traveling to a country that does not recognize IDPs.

A few countries require you to obtain a local temporary driving permit or international license through their own government before you arrive. France and Germany, for example, have specific rules about how long a U.S. license is valid without additional documentation. Check your destination's requirements before you book your trip.

The IDP is the simplest option for most travelers because it is issued quickly, costs little, and is recognized in over 150 countries. If you are unsure whether your destination requires one, getting an IDP costs so little that it is often worth having as backup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit if my license is suspended or revoked?

No. AAA and AATA will not issue an IDP if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired. You must have a valid, active driver's license. If your license is suspended, you cannot legally drive anywhere, including abroad, until the suspension is lifted.

Can I get an International Driving Permit online or by mail?

No. Both AAA and AATA issue IDPs only in person at their physical offices. You must visit an office, bring your documents, and receive the permit the same day. No online or mail service exists.

What happens if the country I am visiting does not recognize International Driving Permits?

You can drive using your U.S. driver's license alone in most countries that do not recognize IDPs. Some may require a certified English translation of your license. Check your destination country's specific requirements before you travel to know what documents to bring.

How long is an International Driving Permit valid?

An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. It also expires when your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever comes first. If your license expires in six months, your IDP expires in six months even if it was just issued.

Can I renew my International Driving Permit, or do I have to get a new one?

You cannot renew an IDP. When it expires, you must get a new one from AAA or AATA. The process is identical to getting your first IDP — bring your valid license, ID, and photo, and pay the fee again.