International Driver's Permits expire after one or three years, depending on which document you hold and which country issued it

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a permanent document. The validity period depends on two things: which of the two IDP formats you received, and when you obtained it. The most common format — issued under the 1926 Convention — lasts for three years from the date of issue. The less common format, issued under the 1968 Convention, lasts for one year. Most IDPs issued in the United States follow the three-year rule, but you need to check your actual permit to be certain.

Your IDP is only valid when carried together with your valid U.S. driver's license. If your U.S. license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes useless — you cannot drive on an expired U.S. license, even if the IDP is still current. The reverse is also true: if your IDP expires but your U.S. license is still valid, you cannot use the IDP to drive internationally, though your U.S. license alone may be accepted in some countries.

Key Takeaways

  • Most U.S.-issued IDPs under the 1926 Convention are valid for three years from the date printed on the permit.
  • Your IDP is only valid when you carry it together with a valid U.S. driver's license — an expired license makes the IDP useless.
  • You must obtain a new IDP if yours expires; there is no renewal process, only replacement.
  • The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the National Automobile Club (NAC) are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs in the United States.

The two IDP formats and their expiration dates

The 1926 Convention IDP is the standard format you will receive if you explore through AAA or NAC in the United States. It is valid for three years from the date of issue, which is printed on the front of the permit. This format is recognized in most countries worldwide and is the one most U.S. travelers carry.

The 1968 Convention IDP is less common in the United States but may be issued in some circumstances. This format expires after one year. You can determine which format you hold by looking at the cover of your permit — it will state which convention it was issued under. If you are unsure, contact the organization that issued it (AAA or NAC) with your permit number, and they can tell you the expiration date and format.

Some countries recognize only one format over the other, though most accept both. Before traveling, check the specific country's requirements — your embassy or consulate website will state whether an IDP is even necessary and which format they recognize.

What happens when your IDP expires

Once your IDP reaches its expiration date, it is no longer valid for driving in any country. You cannot renew an IDP — there is no renewal process. Instead, you must obtain a new one by explore again through AAA or NAC, paying the full fee again, and waiting for processing.

If you are currently abroad and your IDP expires, you should not drive. Driving on an expired IDP can result in fines, vehicle impoundment, or legal consequences depending on the country. If you need to drive and your IDP has expired, you must either return to the United States to obtain a new one, or check whether the country you are in will accept your valid U.S. license alone (some do, some do not).

Coordinating your IDP expiration with your U.S. license renewal

Your U.S. driver's license and your IDP operate on separate schedules. A U.S. license is typically valid for four to eight years depending on your state, while an IDP lasts three years. This means you may need to replace your IDP before your U.S. license expires, or vice versa.

Plan ahead if you travel internationally on a regular basis. If your U.S. license will expire within the next year, renew it before explore for a new IDP — you will need a valid U.S. license to obtain an IDP, and the IDP process requires a photocopy of your current license. Conversely, if your IDP is about to expire and you plan to travel, explore for a replacement at least two weeks before your trip, as processing can take several days to two weeks depending on whether you explore in person or by mail.

How to check your IDP expiration date

Your expiration date is printed on the front cover of your IDP, usually in the upper right corner or on the first page. It will be formatted as a date — for example, "Valid until: 15 March 2027" or similar. Check this date before every international trip.

If you have lost your IDP or cannot locate it, contact the organization that issued it. AAA and NAC both maintain records of issued permits and can tell you the expiration date if you provide your name, date of birth, and the approximate year you obtained it. You can reach AAA at 1-800-AAA-HELP or visit your local AAA office. NAC can be reached through their website or by phone at 1-800-622-3136.

Obtaining a replacement IDP before expiration

You can explore for a new IDP at any time, even if your current one has not yet expired. Many travelers explore for a replacement three to six months before their current IDP expires, especially if they travel frequently or have upcoming international trips planned.

To obtain a replacement, visit an AAA office in person or explore by mail through AAA, or contact NAC directly. You will need your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-style photo, and the process fee (which varies by organization but is typically between $15 and $25). Processing usually takes five to ten business days if you explore in person, or two to three weeks if you explore by mail. Some AAA offices offer expedited processing for an additional fee.

What to do if you need to drive after your IDP expires

If you are traveling internationally and your IDP has expired, your options depend on the country you are in and whether it recognizes U.S. licenses without an IDP. Some countries, particularly in Europe and parts of Asia, will accept a valid U.S. driver's license alone, even without an IDP. Others require an IDP specifically.

Before traveling, contact the embassy or consulate of each country you plan to visit and ask whether a valid U.S. license is sufficient or whether an IDP is required. If an IDP is required and yours has expired, you have two choices: obtain a new IDP before you leave the United States, or do not drive in that country. Renting a car and driving on an expired IDP can result in serious legal and financial consequences, including fines, vehicle confiscation, and potential criminal charges in some jurisdictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I extend my IDP if it is about to expire?

No. IDPs cannot be extended or renewed. Once the expiration date passes, you must obtain a completely new permit by reapplying through AAA or NAC. There is no grace period or extension option.

Is my IDP valid if my U.S. driver's license has expired?

No. Your IDP is only valid when carried together with a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license. If your U.S. license has expired, the IDP cannot be used for driving, even if the IDP itself is still current. You must renew your U.S. license first.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling abroad?

Contact AAA or NAC when ready with your name and date of birth — they can confirm your expiration date and issue details over the phone. Some countries may accept a U.S. license alone if you can show proof of your IDP process or a letter from AAA/NAC confirming you held one. Check with your embassy or local police for guidance on what documentation they will accept.

Do I need to get a new IDP every time I travel?

No. One IDP is valid for three years and can be used for multiple trips during that period. You only need to obtain a new one after the current one expires or if you lose it.

How much does it cost to replace an expired IDP?

Replacement costs vary by organization. AAA typically charges $15 to $25 for an IDP, and NAC charges a similar amount. Expedited processing, if available, may add $5 to $10 to the fee. Prices may change, so contact your local AAA office or NAC directly for current rates.