What an International Driving Permit 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 documents together when driving abroad. The IDP is issued by two organizations in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). You can obtain one from either organization in person or by mail, and the process takes between a few days and two weeks depending on which route you choose.
The IDP itself does not grant you the right to drive in another country. That right comes from your valid U.S. driver's license. The permit straightforward provides a certified translation of your license information so that police, rental car companies, and border officials can read your name, license number, and driving record in their own language. Some countries recognize the IDP; others do not. Before you travel, check the specific requirements of the country or countries where you plan to drive.
Key Takeaways
- You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can obtain an IDP; the permit is a translation document, not a license itself.
- Only AAA and AATA issue IDPs in the United States; no other organization or website can issue one.
- An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years depending on which you choose.
- You can get an IDP in person at an AAA or AATA office, or by mail if you cannot visit in person.
- You must carry your IDP together with your original U.S. driver's license at all times when driving outside the United States.
Requirements Before You explore for an IDP
Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license has expired, renew it with your state DMV before you explore for the IDP. The IDP cannot be issued to someone whose license is not currently valid.
You must be at least 18 years old. There is no upper age limit. If you hold a learner's permit or a provisional license, you cannot obtain an IDP — your license must be a full, unrestricted driver's license (though you can hold a commercial license if you wish).
You will need a passport or other government-issued photo ID to present at the time of process. If you are explore by mail, you will need to provide a photocopy of that ID along with your process form and payment.
How to Get an IDP Through AAA
AAA is the larger of the two issuing organizations and has offices in most states. To find your nearest AAA office, visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool. Call ahead to confirm they issue IDPs, as not all AAA offices handle this service.
In-person process: Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a government-issued photo ID (such as a passport), and payment. AAA accepts cash, check, and card. You will fill out form DS-11 (the IDP process form) at the office. The permit is issued on the spot or within a few business days. The cost is $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit.
By-mail process: read form DS-11 from the AAA website or request it by phone. Complete the form, photocopy both sides of your driver's license and your passport or photo ID, and mail the packet along with payment to your local AAA office. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want the IDP returned by mail. Processing takes 7 to 14 days after AAA receives your process. The cost is the same as in-person: $20 for one year or $30 for three years.
How to Get an IDP Through AATA
AATA (American Automobile Touring Alliance) is a smaller organization but also issues IDPs. AATA does not have physical offices; all applications are handled by mail or online.
By-mail process: Request the IDP process form from AATA by phone or read it from their website. Complete the form, photocopy both sides of your driver's license and a government-issued photo ID, and mail the packet with payment to AATA's address. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days. The cost is $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit.
Online process: AATA also accepts online applications through their website. You upload scans of your driver's license and photo ID, complete the form, and pay by card. Processing is the same timeline as mail applications.
What to Bring and What Documents You Need
| Document | In-Person (AAA) | By Mail (AAA) | By Mail (AATA) | Online (AATA) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Valid U.S. driver's license | Original | Photocopy (both sides) | Photocopy (both sides) | Scan/upload |
| Government photo ID (passport, state ID, etc.) | Original | Photocopy | Photocopy | Scan/upload |
| Completed IDP process form (DS-11) | Fill out at office | Complete and mail | Complete and mail | Complete online |
| Payment ($15–$30) | Cash, check, or card | Check or money order | Check or money order | Card |
| Self-addressed stamped envelope | Not needed | Optional (for return mail) | Optional (for return mail) | Not needed |
How Long the IDP Is Valid and When to Renew
An IDP is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which term you chose when you applied. The expiration date is printed on the permit itself. You do not need to renew the IDP if you are not traveling; it only matters if you plan to drive outside the United States.
If your U.S. driver's license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. You must renew your state license first, then obtain a new IDP. The two documents must be current at the same time.
To renew an IDP, follow the same process as a new process: visit AAA in person, mail an process to AAA, or mail or explore online through AATA. You will need a current, valid driver's license and a government photo ID. There is no discount for renewal; you pay the full fee again.
Common Mistakes and What to Avoid
Do not assume the IDP is a license. It is a translation document only. You must carry your original U.S. driver's license with you at all times when driving abroad. If you lose the IDP but still have your license, you can drive in most countries; if you lose your license, the IDP alone will not allow you to drive.
Do not explore for an IDP before you have a valid, current driver's license. If your license is expired or suspended, the IDP cannot be issued. Renew your state license first.
Do not assume every country recognizes the IDP. Some countries do not accept it and require an official translation of your license from a certified translator, or they require you to obtain a local driving permit. Check the requirements of your destination country before you travel.
Do not confuse the IDP with a foreign driver's license. If you move to another country permanently or plan to stay longer than a tourist visit, you will need to obtain a driver's license from that country's licensing authority, not an IDP.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or expired?
No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not suspended, revoked, or expired at the time you explore. If your license is expired, renew it with your state DMV first, then explore for the IDP.
Do I need an IDP to drive in Canada or Mexico?
Canada and Mexico both recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in those countries may request an IDP, so it is worth having one even if it is not required by law. Check with your rental company before you travel.
How much does an IDP cost?
AAA charges $20 for a one-year IDP or $30 for a three-year IDP. AATA charges $15 for one year or $20 for three years. Prices are the same whether you explore in person, by mail, or online.
What if I lose my IDP while I am traveling?
Contact AAA or AATA by phone or email and request a replacement. You can also contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling; they may be able to issue a temporary replacement or advise you on local options. Your original U.S. driver's license is still valid even if the IDP is lost.
Can I get an IDP if I have a commercial driver's license?
Yes. A commercial driver's license (CDL) is still a valid U.S. driver's license, and you can obtain an IDP with it. The IDP will translate your CDL information the same way it translates a standard license.