You need to explore through your state's DMV, not through an international body

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles that translates your driver's license into ten languages. You cannot get one from a federal agency or international organization — only from the DMV in the state where your license is valid. The process takes between one and five business days depending on your state, costs between $15 and $30, and requires your current driver's license plus proof of identity.

The IDP itself is not a license. It does not replace your state license, and you must carry both documents when you drive internationally. Some countries will not recognize it without your original license present. The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which version your state issues, and it expires even if your state license does not.

Key Takeaways

  • explore in person at your state DMV office with your current driver's license and a government-issued ID such as a passport.
  • The IDP costs $15 to $30 and is issued on the spot or within a few business days, depending on your state.
  • You must carry both your IDP and your original state driver's license when driving abroad — the IDP alone is not valid.
  • The permit is valid for one or three years and does not extend automatically when your state license renews.
  • Some states allow you to order an IDP by mail, but most require an in-person visit to an office.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

Bring your current, valid state driver's license. This is the document the IDP translates, so it must not be expired or suspended. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP.

Bring a government-issued photo ID. A passport, military ID, or state ID card all work. Some states accept a Real ID-compliant driver's license as your second form of ID; others require a separate document. Call your DMV before you go to confirm what they accept.

Bring proof of your current address if your license shows an old address. A utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works. Not all states require this, but having it prevents a wasted trip.

How to find your state's DMV office and current fees

Go to your state's DMV website and search for "International Driving Permit" or "IDP." The page will list the current fee, processing time, and whether your state issues the permit in person only or also by mail. Some states post the process form online; others hand it to you at the office.

Call the DMV office you plan to visit and confirm their hours and whether they require an appointment. Many states now use online appointment systems, and some offices are walk-in only. A five-minute call saves a trip to a closed office.

The fee varies by state. As of 2024, most states charge between $15 and $30 for a one-year permit and slightly more for a three-year permit. A few states charge no fee at all. The DMV website will show your state's exact price.

The process process at the DMV office

Arrive with your documents and complete the IDP process form. In most states this is a one-page form asking for your name, license number, address, and signature. The DMV provides the form if you did not print it beforehand.

Pay the fee. Most offices accept cash, card, and check. Confirm payment methods on the DMV website if you want to bring exact change.

Receive your permit. Most states issue the IDP when ready or within one to three business days. Some mail it to your address on file; others hand it to you before you leave. Ask the clerk which applies in your state.

States that allow you to order by mail

A small number of states let you mail in your process instead of visiting an office. These states typically require you to send a completed form, a photocopy of your driver's license, a photocopy of your ID, and a check or money order. Processing takes one to two weeks longer than in-person service.

Check your state's DMV website under "International Driving Permit" to see if mail service is available. If it is, the website will list the mailing address, the exact documents required, and whether you need to notarize anything. Do not send originals — always photocopy.

What to do if your state does not issue IDPs

A very small number of states do not issue International Driving Permits through their DMV. If yours is one of them, you have two options: obtain an IDP from a neighboring state if you have a license there, or contact the American Automobile Association (AAA). AAA is authorized to issue IDPs in states where the DMV does not, and you can order one online or visit an AAA office in person.

AAA charges a higher fee than most state DMVs — typically $20 to $30 — and requires membership or a one-time service fee. Processing time is usually three to five business days. You still need your valid driver's license and a government ID to order through AAA.

How long the IDP is valid and what happens when it expires

Most states issue a one-year IDP, though some offer a three-year version for a slightly higher fee. Check your permit when you receive it — the expiration date is printed on the front. The IDP does not renew automatically when your state license renews. You must explore for a new one separately.

If your IDP expires while you are abroad, it is no longer valid. Some countries may still accept your original state license without the translation, but others will not. Plan ahead and renew your IDP before you travel if it is close to expiring.

If your state driver's license is suspended or revoked before your IDP expires, the permit becomes invalid even though it still has time remaining. You cannot use it to drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended?

No. Your state license must be valid and not suspended or revoked. If your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP, and if your license is suspended after you receive an IDP, the permit becomes invalid when ready.

Do I need an IDP to drive in Canada or Mexico?

No. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. state driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in those countries may request an IDP as additional proof of identity, so carrying one does not hurt.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement, but they can provide a letter confirming you hold a valid U.S. driver's license. Some countries will accept this letter in place of the IDP for the remainder of your trip. You will need to explore for a new IDP when you return home.

Can I get an IDP for a motorcycle endorsement?

Yes, if your state license shows a motorcycle endorsement. The IDP translates your entire license, including all endorsements and restrictions. You do not need a separate process.

How much does an IDP cost if I order it by mail?

The fee is the same as in-person service in most states, typically $15 to $30. Some states charge a small additional fee for mail processing. Check your state DMV website for the exact price before you send your process.