What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

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 officers, car rental companies, and border officials in other countries that your U.S. license is real and current.

The IDP is issued by two organizations in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both issue the same document under the same international treaty. You do not need to choose between them; you can get one from whichever is more convenient. The permit is valid for one or three years, depending on which you purchase.

Some countries require an IDP by law; others do not. Before you travel, check the specific rules for the country you are visiting. Many car rental companies outside the U.S. will not rent to you without one, even if the country does not legally require it.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an International Driving Permit; the IDP cannot be obtained on its own.
  • The IDP is available from AAA or AATA, and both issue the identical document recognized worldwide.
  • You can obtain an IDP in person at an AAA office or through the mail from either organization, depending on which you choose.
  • The process takes minutes in person or one to two weeks by mail, and costs between $15 and $20 depending on the validity period.
  • You must carry your U.S. driver's license and your IDP together; the permit alone is not valid for driving.

Getting an IDP Through AAA

If you are an AAA member, the fastest route is to visit a local AAA office in person. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches), and a completed AAA International Driving Permit process form. The staff will process your request on the spot, and you will walk out with your permit the same day. The cost is $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit.

If you are not near an AAA office or prefer to explore by mail, you can send your process, license copy, and photo to AAA's processing center. This route takes one to two weeks. You do not need to be an AAA member to obtain an IDP through AAA, though members may receive faster service at some locations.

To find your nearest AAA office, visit the AAA website and use their office locator. Call ahead to confirm they issue IDPs and to ask about current wait times, especially during peak travel seasons.

Getting an IDP Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance processes IDP applications by mail only — there is no in-person option. Send your completed process form, a copy of your valid U.S. driver's license, and one passport-sized photo to their processing address. Processing takes one to two weeks from the date they receive your materials.

The cost through AATA is the same as AAA: $15 for one year or $20 for three years. You do not need to be a member of any organization to explore through AATA. Once your permit arrives, check it when ready for errors in spelling or license number, and contact AATA right away if you find a mistake.

AATA's mailing address and process form are available on their website. Because this is a mail-only process, plan ahead if you need your IDP before a specific travel date.

What You Need to Bring or Send

Regardless of which organization you choose, you will need the same materials:

  • A valid U.S. driver's license (not expired).
  • One passport-sized photograph, 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months. The photo must show your face clearly against a plain background.
  • A completed process form (provided by AAA or AATA).
  • Payment for the permit ($15 or $20, depending on validity period).

If you are explore in person at AAA, you can often complete the process form right there. If you are explore by mail, read and print the form from the organization's website, or request one by phone. Some AAA offices accept applications online through their website, which you can then print and bring in, or mail.

Do not send your original driver's license — send a photocopy. Keep the original with you at all times.

How Long the IDP Is Valid

An International Driving Permit is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue. The one-year permit costs $15; the three-year permit costs $20. Choose based on how often you plan to drive abroad. If you travel internationally once every few years, the three-year permit is better value. If you are unsure, the one-year option lets you reorder later without waste.

Your IDP is only valid as long as your U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. If you renew your U.S. license, you will need a new IDP as well — the old one cannot be transferred or updated.

Check the expiration date on your IDP before you travel. Some countries or rental companies may refuse an IDP that expires within a certain number of months of your travel dates.

What to Do If You Lose Your IDP Abroad

If your IDP is lost or stolen while you are traveling, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in that country when ready. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide documentation confirming that your U.S. license is valid, which may help you with local authorities or rental companies.

Once you return to the United States, you can order a replacement IDP from AAA or AATA using the same process as a new process. There is no expedited replacement process, so plan for one to two weeks. If you need to drive internationally again before the replacement arrives, you will need to order another one.

To avoid this situation, make a photocopy of your IDP and keep it separate from the original. Some travelers also photograph their IDP and store the image in their phone or email.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am just visiting another country?

It depends on the country. Some require an IDP by law; others do not. However, most car rental companies outside the U.S. will not rent to you without one, regardless of local law. Check the specific requirements for your destination before you travel. Even if not required, having one eliminates confusion with police or rental staff.

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

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and current. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP. If your license is about to expire, renew it first, then explore for the IDP.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document only — it is not a license itself. You must carry your U.S. driver's license at all times when driving abroad. Some countries issue their own international licenses to residents, but the U.S. does not. The IDP is the U.S. equivalent.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

An IDP costs $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit through either AAA or AATA. There are no additional fees if you explore in person or by mail. Some AAA offices may charge a small processing fee on top of the permit cost, so ask when you call.

Can I renew my International Driving Permit before it expires?

Yes, you can explore for a new IDP at any time. There is no penalty for ordering early. If you are planning another international trip before your current IDP expires, you can straightforward order a new one. Keep both until the old one expires, then discard it.