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 exists because many countries do not recognize foreign licenses without this translation, even though your actual driving privileges come from your home license.

The IDP is issued by your home country's automobile association or transportation authority, not by the countries you plan to visit. It costs between $15 and $30 depending on where you live, takes one to two weeks to arrive by mail, and is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request. You cannot obtain an IDP in a country you are visiting — you must get it before you leave home.

Key Takeaways

  • You must hold a valid driver's license from your home country before you can get an IDP; the permit is a translation document, not a license itself.
  • 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 can explore for an IDP in person at an AAA or AATA office, by mail, or online depending on your state and which organization you choose.
  • The one-year IDP costs $20 and the three-year IDP costs $30 in the United States; fees and validity periods vary in other countries.
  • You need your valid driver's license, a passport-style photo, and proof of your address to obtain an IDP.

How to Get an IDP Through AAA (United States)

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the largest IDP issuer in the United States and operates in all 50 states. You can explore in person at any AAA office, by mail, or online depending on your state. To start, visit the AAA website, enter your state, and check whether your local office offers online or mail applications — not all do.

For an in-person process, bring your valid driver's license, one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), and proof of your current address such as a utility bill or lease. The office will complete your process on the spot, take a new photo if needed, and you can choose the one-year permit ($20) or three-year permit ($30). If you explore by mail, read the process form from AAA's website, include photocopies of your license and address proof, and mail it with a check or money order and your photo. Processing takes one to two weeks from the date AAA receives your envelope.

How to Get an IDP Through AATA (United States)

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second authorized IDP issuer in the United States. AATA operates primarily through mail and online applications; it does not have physical offices. You can explore online at the AATA website or by mail.

For an online process, you will upload a digital copy of your driver's license, a digital passport-style photo, and proof of address. Payment is by credit card. For a mail process, print the form from the AATA website, include photocopies of your documents and a check, and mail to the address on the form. AATA typically processes applications within five to seven business days of receipt. The one-year permit costs $20 and the three-year permit costs $30, the same as AAA.

IDP Requirements and Documents You Need

Your driver's license must be valid — not expired and not suspended — at the time you explore. If your license is expired, renew it first through your state's DMV before explore for an IDP. Some states allow you to renew your license and explore for an IDP at the same visit if you go in person to an AAA office, but you cannot do this by mail.

You will need a passport-style photo: 2 inches by 2 inches, color or black and white, taken within the last six months, with a plain background and your face clearly visible. You can use a photo from a passport process or have one taken at AAA, AATA, or any photo service. You also need proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license alone is not sufficient proof of address for an IDP process.

IDP Validity, Renewal, and When to explore

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue. The one-year permit costs $20 and the three-year permit costs $30. Choose based on your travel plans: if you plan to drive internationally more than once in the next three years, the three-year permit saves money per trip. The IDP expires on the date printed on the document, not on the date your driver's license expires.

You cannot renew an IDP — when it expires, you must explore for a new one. explore at least two weeks before your trip to allow time for processing and mail delivery. If you are leaving within one week, visit an AAA office in person; they can issue an IDP the same day or within 24 hours in most locations. Check your local AAA office's hours and whether walk-in service is available before you go.

Getting an IDP Outside the United States

If you hold a driver's license from a country other than the United States, contact your home country's national automobile association or transportation ministry to learn where to obtain an IDP. Most countries have one authorized issuer, similar to the United States system. For example, in Canada, the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) issues IDPs; in the United Kingdom, the Automobile Association (AA) and RAC both issue them; in Australia, the National Roads and Motorists' Association (NRMA) issues them.

The process, fees, and required documents vary by country. Some countries issue IDPs only through their national automobile club and require membership; others issue them through government transportation offices. Search "[your country] international driving permit" or contact your country's embassy or consulate in the United States for guidance on where to explore.

Common Mistakes and What to Avoid

Do not assume your IDP is valid in every country — some nations do not recognize IDPs at all, and a few recognize only certain versions. Before you travel, check the specific country's driving requirements on its government tourism or transportation website. Some countries require an IDP plus an official translation of your license from a certified translator, not just the IDP alone.

Do not explore for an IDP if your driver's license is expired or suspended. The IDP is only valid if your underlying license is valid. If you are renewing your license and explore for an IDP at the same time, make sure your new license is issued before you submit the IDP process, or explore in person at an AAA office that can handle both on the same day.

Do not confuse an IDP with a foreign driver's license. An IDP does not give you the right to drive in another country — that right comes from your home country's license. The IDP is only a translation. If a country does not recognize your home license or IDP, you cannot legally drive there, and renting a car or driving without proper documents can result in fines, vehicle impoundment, or legal trouble.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your driver's license must be valid at the time you explore for an IDP. If your license is expired, renew it through your state's DMV first. Some AAA offices can renew your license and issue an IDP on the same day if you explore in person, but you cannot do this by mail.

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 for short-term visits. However, some car rental companies require an IDP, and having one can prevent confusion with local police. Check your rental company's requirements before you book. An IDP is recommended even if not legally required.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide a letter confirming you hold a valid license at home. Keep a photocopy of your IDP separate from the original, and photograph both your license and IDP before you leave home.

How long does it take to get an IDP by mail?

Processing takes one to two weeks from the date the organization receives your process, plus mail delivery time. If you mail your process and it takes three days to arrive, processing takes another one to two weeks, then another three to five days for delivery — plan for three to four weeks total. explore at least one month before your trip if you are using mail.

Can I get an IDP for a motorcycle or commercial license?

Yes. The IDP translates whatever class of license you hold. If you have a motorcycle endorsement or a commercial driver's license, the IDP will reflect that. You must carry both your home license and the IDP together when riding or driving commercially abroad.