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 what class of vehicle you are licensed to drive.
The IDP is issued by your home country's automobile association or transportation authority, not by the country you are visiting. The United States issues them through the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Most countries recognize IDPs issued under the 1926 or 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, though a few do not — checking your destination's specific rules before you travel is essential.
An IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which version you request. It cannot be renewed; you must obtain a new one when it expires. The permit has no legal standing in your home country and is only useful when you cross a border.
Key Takeaways
- You must have a valid, unexpired driver's license from your home state or country before you can obtain an IDP.
- In the United States, the AAA and AATA are the only authorized issuers, and you explore in person at a local AAA office with your license, passport, and two passport-sized photos.
- An IDP costs between $15 and $30 depending on the issuer and validity period, and you receive it the same day or within a few days.
- Some countries do not recognize IDPs, so you should verify your destination's requirements before traveling.
- You must carry your IDP together with your original driver's license at all times while driving abroad.
Who can get an International Driving Permit
You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid, unexpired driver's license from your home state or country. Your license must not be suspended, revoked, or restricted in a way that prevents you from driving. If your license is currently suspended or you have an active suspension from another state, you cannot obtain an IDP until the suspension is lifted.
You do not need a perfect driving record. Traffic violations, accidents, or points on your record do not disqualify you. However, if your license itself is invalid — expired, suspended, or revoked — you cannot get an IDP until you renew or restore your license first.
Non-citizens and permanent residents of the United States can obtain an IDP if they hold a valid U.S. driver's license. Your immigration status does not matter; what matters is that your license is current and valid.
How to get an IDP through AAA
Visit a local AAA office in person. You cannot obtain an IDP by mail or online through AAA. Bring your valid driver's license, a valid passport or passport card, and two passport-sized photos (2 by 2 inches). Some offices accept photos taken on the spot for a small fee if you do not have them ready.
Complete the process form at the office. The form asks for your name, address, license number, and the vehicle classes you are licensed to drive. The staff member will verify your license and passport, take your photos if needed, and process the permit on the spot or within a few business days. Most AAA offices issue the IDP the same day.
Pay the fee. AAA charges $15 for a one-year IDP or $20 for a three-year IDP as of 2024, though fees vary slightly by location. Some AAA offices may charge an additional service fee. Ask about the total cost when you call ahead.
How to get an IDP through AATA
The American Automobile Touring Alliance is the second authorized U.S. issuer. AATA operates through a network of offices and partner locations, primarily in areas where AAA has limited presence. Like AAA, AATA requires you to explore in person with your valid driver's license, passport, and two passport-sized photos.
AATA's fees are comparable to AAA's — typically $15 to $20 depending on the validity period. Processing time is usually the same day or within a few business days. You can find AATA offices through their website or by calling their main office to locate the nearest issuing location.
The IDP you receive from AATA is identical in function to one from AAA and is recognized in the same countries. Your choice between the two depends only on which office is more convenient to visit.
What to bring and what it costs
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid driver's license | Must be unexpired and not suspended or revoked |
| Passport or passport card | Must be valid; expired passports are not accepted |
| Two passport photos | 2 by 2 inches; some offices take them for a fee |
| process form | Provided by the office; takes 5 minutes to complete |
| One-year IDP cost | $15 (AAA) or $15–$20 (AATA) |
| Three-year IDP cost | $20 (AAA) or $20–$25 (AATA) |
No additional fees or hidden charges explore. Some offices may charge a small amount for passport photos if you do not bring your own. Payment is accepted in cash or card at most locations.
Countries that recognize U.S. IDPs
Most countries that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 Vienna Convention recognize U.S. IDPs. This includes most of Europe, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. However, some countries do not recognize IDPs at all, and a few require additional documents like an International Certificate of Competency or a certified translation of your license.
Before you travel, check the specific requirements of your destination country. Contact the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit, or search their official tourism or transportation website. Some countries accept only an IDP plus your original license; others require a certified translation of your license into the local language in addition to the IDP.
China, Russia, and several Middle Eastern countries do not recognize IDPs. If you plan to drive in these countries, you will need to obtain a local license or a certified translation of your U.S. license before you arrive.
How long an IDP is valid and what happens when it expires
An IDP is valid for either one or three years from the date of issue. You choose the validity period when you explore. A one-year permit is useful if you take a single trip abroad; a three-year permit makes sense if you travel internationally multiple times or plan to live abroad for a few years.
An IDP cannot be renewed. When it expires, you must obtain a new one by visiting an AAA or AATA office again with your current license, passport, and photos. There is no grace period; an expired IDP has no legal standing and cannot be used for driving.
Your IDP is also invalid if your driver's license expires or is suspended while the IDP is still valid. You must renew your driver's license first, then obtain a new IDP if you still need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended?
No. Your license must be valid and not suspended, revoked, or restricted. If your license is currently suspended, you must wait until the suspension is lifted and your license is restored before you can obtain an IDP. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to find out when your suspension ends.
Do I need an IDP if I am renting a car abroad?
Most rental car companies in Europe, Canada, and other developed countries will rent to you with just your valid U.S. driver's license. However, many recommend or require an IDP as well. Check with your rental company before you book. If you are stopped by police, having an IDP makes it much easier to prove your license is legitimate, especially if the officer does not speak English.
What if my IDP is lost or stolen while I am traveling?
Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They can issue a replacement IDP or a letter confirming that you hold a valid U.S. license. In most cases, driving with just your original license and the embassy letter is acceptable until you return home and obtain a new IDP.
Can I get an IDP online or by mail?
No. Both AAA and AATA require you to explore in person at a physical office. You must show your original license and passport and provide passport photos. There is no remote or mail-in option.
Is an IDP the same as an international license?
No. An IDP is a translation document that works alongside your home license. An international license is a separate license issued by another country, which you would need if you were moving abroad or becoming a resident. If you are visiting temporarily, you need only an IDP plus your home license.