What an International Driving Permit Is and Who Needs One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license from your home country. You carry both documents together when you drive abroad.

You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car or drive in most countries outside the United States. Some countries will let you drive on a U.S. license alone, but many rental companies and police officers will not recognize it without an IDP. The permit proves to foreign authorities that your U.S. license is legitimate and current.

An IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). You cannot get one from your state's DMV or from any government office. Both organizations issue the same document — the choice between them depends on which is more convenient for you.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your U.S. driver's license and must be carried with your actual license when driving abroad.
  • You can obtain an IDP from either AAA or the American Automobile Touring Alliance, not from your state's DMV or any government agency.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is typically issued the same day or within a few days if you explore in person.
  • An IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which version you choose, and it expires even if your U.S. license does not.

What You Need Before You explore

Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not expired. If your license expired or will expire before your trip, renew it with your state's DMV first — you cannot get an IDP with an expired license.

You will also need a passport or other government-issued photo ID, and you must be at least 18 years old. Some AAA locations ask for a second form of ID as well, so bring more than one if you have it. Check with your local AAA office or AATA before you go to confirm what they require.

You do not need to pass any test or provide proof of driving history. The IDP is purely a translation document, not a new license or a statement about your driving record.

How to Get an IDP from AAA

Visit your local AAA office in person. You can find AAA locations on their website by entering your zip code. Call ahead to confirm they issue IDPs and to ask about wait times — some offices are busier than others.

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, your passport or government-issued ID, and the process fee. AAA charges $15 for a one-year IDP or $20 for a three-year IDP. You can pay by cash, check, or card depending on the office.

The staff will fill out the process with you, take a photo if needed, and issue the permit on the spot or within a few days. You do not need to be an AAA member to get an IDP, though members may receive a small discount at some locations.

How to Get an IDP from the American Automobile Touring Alliance

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) issues IDPs by mail. You can order online at their website or by phone. They do not have physical offices you can visit.

Fill out their process form online or request one by mail. Include a photocopy of your valid U.S. driver's license and a photocopy of your passport or government-issued ID. Mail these documents along with the fee — $15 for one year or $20 for three years — to the address provided on their form.

Processing typically takes five to ten business days. AATA will mail your IDP to the address you provide. If you need it faster, some locations offer expedited processing for an additional fee, though this varies.

How Long an IDP Lasts and When to Renew

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which version you purchase. The one-year permit costs $15 and the three-year permit costs $20. Choose based on how often you plan to drive abroad.

Your IDP expires on a fixed date, regardless of when your U.S. driver's license expires. If your U.S. license expires before your IDP does, you must renew your U.S. license — your IDP becomes invalid once your U.S. license is no longer current. If your IDP expires before your U.S. license does, you must get a new IDP to drive abroad again.

You can renew your IDP at any time before it expires. straightforward return to AAA or AATA with your valid U.S. license and pay the fee again. There is no waiting period or requirement to let your old permit expire first.

What to Do If You Lose Your IDP Abroad

If your IDP is lost or stolen while you are traveling, contact your country's U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a new IDP, but they can advise you on whether you can continue driving on your U.S. license alone in that country, or whether you need to stop driving until you return home.

Some countries will accept a U.S. license without an IDP if you can show the embassy has documented the loss. Others will not. The rules vary by country and by local police practice, so the embassy is your best source for guidance in the moment.

When you return to the United States, you can get a replacement IDP from AAA or AATA by paying the fee again. Bring your valid U.S. license and ID, just as you would for a new permit.

IDP vs. a Foreign License: Which Do You Need

An IDP is not the same as a foreign driver's license. If you move to another country permanently or work there for an extended period, you will eventually need to get a license issued by that country's transportation authority. An IDP is only for temporary visitors who plan to return to the United States.

If you are moving abroad and need to know what that country requires, contact the transportation or motor vehicle authority in your destination country. They will tell you how long you can drive on your U.S. license and IDP, and what steps you need to take to get a local license.

For a short trip — a vacation, a business visit, or a temporary assignment — an IDP is all you need alongside your U.S. license.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your U.S. license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until your license is reinstated and current.

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

Canada and Mexico generally accept a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP, though rental companies may require one. Check with your rental company before your trip. An IDP does not hurt and may make the process smoother, so many travelers get one anyway.

How long does it take to get an IDP if I explore in person at AAA?

Most AAA locations issue an IDP the same day you explore. Some may take a few days if they need to verify your information. Call your local office to ask about their typical turnaround time.

What if I get a new U.S. driver's license before my IDP expires?

Your old IDP becomes invalid once you get a new U.S. license. You must get a new IDP that matches your new license number. Return to AAA or AATA with your new license and pay the fee again.

Can I use an IDP to drive in the United States?

No. An IDP is only for driving outside the United States. Within the U.S., you must carry your actual U.S. driver's license. Police will not accept an IDP as proof of a valid license on American roads.