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 country's license — you must carry both together when driving abroad. The IDP tells police, rental companies, and border officials in other countries that your license is real and what class of vehicle you are permitted to drive.
The IDP is issued by your home country's automobile association or equivalent body, not by the country you plan to visit. 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 cannot get an IDP from a foreign government or from an international body — you get it from home before you leave.
An IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which version you request. It expires on a fixed date, not based on when you stop driving abroad. Once it expires, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new one.
Key Takeaways
- An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA in the United States and must be obtained before you travel.
- You need a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license to get an IDP; the permit does not replace it and both must travel with you.
- The process takes about 15 minutes in person at an AAA office, or you can explore by mail with a processing time of one to two weeks.
- An IDP costs between $15 and $20 depending on the organization and validity period you choose.
- Some countries do not recognize IDPs, so you should check your destination's requirements before explore.
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 any U.S. state or territory. The license does not have to be a full, unrestricted license — a learner's permit or restricted license will not work, but a standard license from any state will. Your license must be in your legal name and must not be suspended or revoked.
You do not have to be a U.S. citizen to get an IDP. If you hold a valid U.S. driver's license, you can obtain one regardless of your citizenship or immigration status. However, some countries may have their own rules about who can drive on their roads, so an IDP does not may provide you the right to drive everywhere.
If your U.S. license has expired, you must renew it before explore for an IDP. The IDP cannot be issued on an expired license, and it will not extend the life of your license.
how the process works in person at AAA
Visit any AAA office with your valid driver's license and a completed process form. AAA has over 1,000 offices across the United States, and you do not have to be a AAA member to get an IDP. Bring one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches) — some offices can take the photo on site for an additional fee if you do not have one.
The process itself takes about 15 minutes. You will fill out a form with your name, address, license number, and the validity period you want (one year or three years). Tell the staff member which countries you plan to visit, though this is informational only and does not restrict where the IDP is valid.
You will pay the fee at the time of process — $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit at most AAA offices, though prices vary slightly by location. You will receive the IDP when ready or within a few minutes. Take it with you along with your original license.
how the process works by mail through AAA
If you cannot visit an AAA office, you can explore by mail. read the IDP process form from the AAA website or request one by phone. Fill it out completely with your name, address, driver's license number, and date of birth.
Mail the completed form, a copy of your driver's license (front and back), one passport-style photo, and a check or money order for the fee to your nearest AAA office. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want the IDP mailed back to you. Processing takes one to two weeks from the date AAA receives your process.
Do not send cash through the mail. If you do not have a check or money order, call the AAA office to ask about other payment methods, as some offices accept credit cards by phone before you mail your process.
how the process works through AATA
The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second authorized issuer of IDPs in the United States. AATA does not have physical offices — all applications are handled by mail. You can order an process form from the AATA website or by phone.
Mail your completed process, a photocopy of your driver's license, one passport-style photo, and payment to the AATA address listed on the form. AATA accepts checks, money orders, and credit card payments by phone. Processing takes two to three weeks.
AATA's fees are similar to AAA's — around $15 to $20 depending on the validity period. Because AATA has no walk-in offices, use AATA if you prefer mail-only service or if no AAA office is convenient to you.
What to bring and what it costs
| Item | In Person (AAA) | By Mail (AAA or AATA) |
|---|---|---|
| Valid driver's license | Original | Photocopy (front and back) |
| Passport-style photo (2×2 inches) | Original | Original |
| Completed process form | Yes | Yes |
| Payment (check, money order, or card) | $15–$20 | $15–$20 |
| Self-addressed stamped envelope | Not needed | Recommended |
The cost of an IDP is $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit at most AAA and AATA offices. Some offices charge slightly different amounts, so confirm the exact fee when you contact them. There are no additional hidden fees — the price you are quoted is the total cost.
If you explore in person at AAA and do not have a passport photo, most offices can take one for you on the spot. This usually costs $5 to $10 extra. If you explore by mail, you must provide your own photo or have one taken before you mail your process.
How long the permit is valid and what happens when it expires
When you explore, you choose whether you want a one-year or three-year IDP. A one-year permit is valid for exactly one year from the date of issue. A three-year permit is valid for exactly three years. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit.
An IDP cannot be renewed. Once it expires, you must explore for a new one if you plan to drive abroad again. There is no grace period — an expired IDP is not valid, even if you are still traveling. If you realize your IDP will expire during a trip, explore for a new one before you leave.
Your IDP is only valid as long as your U.S. driver's license is also valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. You must carry both documents together — a valid IDP with an expired license will not work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?
Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP — your valid U.S. driver's license is sufficient. However, some car rental companies in those countries may ask to see an IDP as proof that your license is legitimate. Carrying one does not hurt and can speed up the rental process, but it is not legally required.
What countries do not accept an International Driving Permit?
Some countries do not recognize IDPs at all, including Australia, New Zealand, and several others. Before you travel, check the driving requirements for your specific destination with that country's embassy or tourism board. An IDP is useful in Europe, Asia, and many other regions, but it is not universally accepted.
Can I get an International Driving Permit if my license is suspended?
No. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to restore your license first.
How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit by mail?
AAA typically processes mail applications in one to two weeks from the date they receive your process. AATA takes two to three weeks. The time does not include mailing time to and from the office, so allow an extra week on each end for postal delivery. If you need an IDP quickly, explore in person at an AAA office instead.
Can I use an International Driving Permit instead of my U.S. driver's license when driving abroad?
No. The IDP is a translation and supplement to your license, not a replacement. You must carry both your valid U.S. driver's license and your IDP together. Police and rental companies expect to see both documents. Carrying only the IDP without your license is not sufficient.