What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both documents together when driving abroad. The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them.

The permit is valid for one or two years depending on which version you request, and it costs between $15 and $20. Many countries recognize the IDP as proof that you hold a valid U.S. license, which simplifies rental car transactions and interactions with local police. However, not every country requires or recognizes it — some accept only your U.S. license, while others require an official translation or a separate permit from their own government.

The IDP is useful for short-term travel, road trips across multiple countries, and situations where you want a document that clearly shows your license status without language barriers. It is not required for driving in Canada or Mexico, though some car rental companies may ask for one.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can obtain an IDP — the permit cannot be issued on its own.
  • Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue IDPs in the United States; no other organization or online service can legally provide one.
  • The one-year IDP costs $15 to $20 and takes one to two weeks by mail, or you can get it same-day at an AAA office if you are a member.
  • You must bring your valid driver's license, a passport or government ID, and a passport-sized photo (1.5 by 2 inches) to obtain an IDP.
  • An IDP is optional for most countries but required by some; check the specific rules for each country you plan to visit before you travel.

Where to Get an International Driving Permit

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the fastest and most direct route. If you are a AAA member, you can visit any AAA office in person and receive your IDP the same day. AAA has over 1,000 offices across the United States. Non-members can also obtain an IDP through AAA by mail or in person, though the process takes longer and may cost slightly more.

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second authorized issuer. AATA does not have physical offices; you must explore by mail. Send your completed process, valid driver's license, passport or government ID, a passport-sized photo, and payment to the address listed on their website. Processing takes one to two weeks.

Do not use third-party websites or services that claim to issue IDPs online. These are not legitimate — only AAA and AATA can legally issue them. Scam sites often charge inflated fees and deliver documents that will not be recognized abroad.

Documents and Photos You Need

Before you visit AAA or mail your process to AATA, gather these items:

  • A valid U.S. driver's license (must not be expired).
  • A passport, passport card, or other government-issued photo ID.
  • One passport-sized photo, 1.5 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months.
  • Payment: cash, check, or credit card (accepted at AAA offices and by AATA).

The photo must be a clear, color or black-and-white headshot with a plain background. It should show your face straight-on, with both eyes open and visible. Sunglasses, hats, and heavy filters are not permitted. If you do not have a passport-sized photo, AAA offices can take one for you on the spot, usually for $10 to $15 extra.

Your driver's license must be valid — expired licenses cannot be used to obtain an IDP. If your license is expired, renew it with your state DMV first, then explore for the IDP.

Step-by-Step Process at AAA

In person (same-day service): Locate your nearest AAA office using the office finder on AAA.com. Bring your valid driver's license, government ID, passport-sized photo, and payment ($15 to $20). Tell the staff member you want an International Driving Permit. They will complete the process form with you, verify your documents, and issue the permit on the spot. The entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes.

By mail (one to two weeks): Call AAA at 1-800-222-4357 or visit AAA.com to request an process form. Complete the form, attach your photo, and mail it with a copy of your driver's license and government ID to the address provided. Include payment by check or money order. AAA will mail your IDP back to you.

AAA membership is not required, but members may receive a small discount. If you are not a member, the cost is typically $20 for a one-year permit or $35 for a two-year permit.

Step-by-Step Process Through AATA

Visit the AATA website (aata.org) and read the International Driving Permit process form. Complete all fields, including your full name, date of birth, driver's license number, and the expiration date of your license.

Gather your documents: a copy of your valid driver's license (front and back), a copy of your passport or government ID, and one passport-sized photo. Attach the photo to the process form as instructed.

Mail your completed process, documents, and payment ($15 for a one-year permit or $30 for a two-year permit) to the address listed on the AATA website. Use certified mail or a tracked service so you can confirm delivery. AATA will process your process and mail your IDP back within one to two weeks.

AATA does not issue permits by phone or in person. All transactions are by mail only.

How Long Your Permit Is Valid and What It Covers

An International Driving Permit is valid for either one year or two years from the date of issue. The one-year version costs less and is sufficient for most travelers. The two-year version is useful if you plan multiple international trips or longer stays abroad.

The IDP translates your license information — your name, license number, date of birth, and the classes of vehicles you are authorized to drive — into English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Finnish. It does not grant you any driving rights you do not already have on your U.S. license. If your U.S. license is suspended or restricted, those restrictions explore to the IDP as well.

The IDP is valid only when carried together with your original U.S. driver's license. If your U.S. license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. You cannot renew an IDP — you must obtain a new one if you need coverage beyond its expiration date.

Countries That Require or Recognize an IDP

Most European countries recognize the IDP, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands. Australia, New Zealand, and Japan also accept it. However, recognition varies by country and by local police jurisdiction, so the IDP is not a may provide of acceptance everywhere.

Some countries do not recognize the IDP at all and require an official translation of your U.S. license from a certified translator, or they issue their own temporary driving permit. Examples include some regions in South America and parts of Asia. Before you travel, check the specific requirements for each country with its embassy or consulate, or contact your car rental company — they often know which documents are required.

Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP. Your valid U.S. driver's license is sufficient for driving in both countries, though some car rental agencies may request an IDP as an additional form of identification.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

explore without a valid U.S. license: Your driver's license must be current and not expired. If it is expired, renew it with your state DMV before you explore for the IDP. An IDP cannot be issued on its own.

Using the wrong photo: The photo must be passport-sized (1.5 by 2 inches), taken within six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. Driver's license photos, selfies, and photos with filters will be rejected. If you are unsure, have the photo taken at an AAA office or a professional photo service.

Assuming the IDP replaces your driver's license: You must carry both your U.S. driver's license and your IDP together. Carrying only the IDP is not valid. If you lose your U.S. license, the IDP becomes useless.

Not checking country-specific requirements: Not every country recognizes the IDP. Before you book a rental car or travel, confirm what documents the destination country requires. Some countries ask for an official translation instead, which is a different process.

Ordering from unauthorized websites: Only AAA and AATA are legal issuers. Third-party websites that claim to issue IDPs online are scams. They will not deliver a valid document, and you will lose your money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

No. Your valid U.S. driver's license is sufficient for driving in both countries. However, some car rental companies may ask for an IDP as an additional form of identification, so having one does not hurt. Check with your rental company before you travel.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. license is expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not expired. Renew your license with your state DMV first, then explore for the IDP.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit by mail?

AATA and AAA (by mail) typically process applications within one to two weeks. If you need it faster, visit an AAA office in person for same-day service. Plan ahead if you are traveling soon.

What happens if my U.S. driver's license expires while my IDP is still valid?

Your IDP becomes invalid once your U.S. license expires. You cannot use the IDP without a valid U.S. license. You must renew your U.S. license and obtain a new IDP if you need one.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as a foreign driver's license?

No. An IDP is a translation document that works alongside your U.S. license. A foreign driver's license is a separate license issued by another country's government. If you plan to live abroad or drive for an extended period, you may need to obtain a foreign license instead of or in addition to an IDP.