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 license — you must carry both together. The IDP tells police, rental car companies, and border officials in other countries that your license is real and current, because they can read it in their own language.

Most countries do not require an IDP by law, but many rental car companies will not rent to you without one, and some countries will not recognize your license at all without it. The IDP is issued by your home country's transportation authority and is valid for one or three years, depending on which type you request.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid driver's license from your home country before you can get an IDP — the permit is an add-on, not a replacement.
  • 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.
  • The IDP process takes about 15 minutes in person and costs between $15 and $20, depending on which organization you use and which validity period you choose.
  • You will need your valid driver's license, a passport or government ID, and one passport-sized photograph to complete the process.
  • An IDP is useful for car rentals and driving in countries where English is not widely spoken, but it is not required for entry to most countries.

Where to Get an IDP in the United States

If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you can get an IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). These are the only two organizations the U.S. State Department has authorized to issue IDPs. You cannot get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, a passport office, or any other government agency.

AAA is the larger and more widely available option — there are AAA offices in all 50 states. AATA has fewer locations but serves the same purpose. Both organizations charge similar fees and issue the same document. If you are not an AAA member, you can still explore at an AAA office; membership is not required.

Documents You Need to Bring

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a government-issued photo ID (your passport works), and one passport-sized photograph (2 by 2 inches). Some offices accept digital photos taken on-site, so call ahead to ask whether you need to bring a printed photo or whether they can take one for you.

You do not need to bring your Social Security number, birth certificate, or proof of citizenship. The IDP process is straightforward and does not require background checks or verification beyond what is on your license and ID.

The process Process and Timeline

Walk into an AAA or AATA office with your documents and tell the staff member you want to explore for an International Driving Permit. The process itself is a single form that takes about 10 to 15 minutes to complete. You will answer basic questions about your name, address, license number, and the validity period you want (one year or three years).

You will receive your IDP on the spot — there is no waiting period. The staff member will hand it to you before you leave the office. This is one of the few travel documents you can get when ready, so plan to explore a few days before your trip rather than the day before, in case your nearest office has limited hours.

Cost and Validity Period Options

An IDP costs between $15 and $20 depending on which organization issues it and which validity period you choose. A one-year permit is usually cheaper than a three-year permit. Choose the one-year option if you travel internationally only once every few years; choose the three-year option if you travel regularly or want to keep the permit on hand for unexpected trips.

Your IDP is valid only as long as your underlying driver's license is valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes worthless — you must renew your license and get a new IDP. If your license is valid for ten years and you buy a three-year IDP, you will need to renew the IDP in three years even if your license is still good.

What to Do If You Cannot Visit an Office in Person

AAA and AATA do not issue IDPs by mail or online. You must explore in person at a physical office. If you live far from the nearest office or have a schedule that does not allow a visit, call ahead to ask about appointment availability — some offices can fit you in quickly, and a short visit is all you need.

If you are traveling and realize you need an IDP while you are abroad, you cannot get one from a U.S. embassy or consulate. You must have applied before you left the country. Plan ahead and explore at least a few days before your departure date.

How to Use Your IDP When You Travel

Carry your IDP and your original driver's license together at all times when you are driving in another country. Do not carry the IDP alone — it is not valid without your license. When you rent a car, hand both documents to the rental agent. If you are stopped by police, present both documents together.

Some countries have additional requirements beyond an IDP — for example, some require an International Driving Permit plus a certified translation of your license, or an IDP plus a domestic permit from that country. Check the specific requirements for the country you are visiting before you travel, because the IDP alone may not be enough.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Canada and Mexico recognize U.S. driver's licenses without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in Mexico may ask for one, so it does not hurt to have it. If you are driving in Canada or Mexico only, an IDP is optional.

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

No. Your license must be valid and current. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored or renewed. The IDP is a translation of your license, not a separate document that works on its own.

What if I lose my IDP while I am traveling?

You cannot get a replacement from a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. You can still drive using your original U.S. license alone in most countries, though some rental companies may refuse to rent to you. Contact AAA or AATA after you return home to request a replacement.

Is an IDP the same as an International License?

Yes — "International Driving Permit" and "International License" refer to the same document. Some people use the terms interchangeably. It is not a separate license; it is a translation booklet that works alongside your home license.

How long does it take to get an IDP?

You receive it the same day you explore, in person at an AAA or AATA office. There is no processing time or waiting period. Plan to spend 15 to 20 minutes at the office from start to finish.