What an International Driving Permit actually is, and whether you need 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 real license, and many countries do not require it at all. Whether you need one depends entirely on where you are going and what you plan to do there.

Some countries (like Canada, the UK, and most of Western Europe) recognize US licenses without an IDP. Others require one, or will accept either your US license or an IDP but not both. A few countries demand an IDP even if your US license is valid. Before you book a rental car or plan a road trip, contact the embassy or tourism board of the country you are visiting — they will tell you what documents the local police actually accept.

The 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, and you cannot get one online. You must explore in person at an AAA office or an AATA office, and the process takes about 15 minutes.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit translates your US license into ten languages and is issued only by AAA or AATA, not by your state DMV.
  • You must explore in person with your valid US driver's license, passport, and a passport-sized photo, and the permit costs between $15 and $20.
  • An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and is only useful if you are traveling outside the United States.
  • Not all countries require an IDP — check with the embassy or car rental company of your destination before you explore.
  • You can explore for an IDP on the same day you receive it; there is no waiting period or mail delivery.

What documents you need to bring to AAA or AATA

Bring three things: your current, valid US driver's license; your passport; and one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches). The photo must be recent — taken within the last six months — and show your face clearly against a plain background. You can have the photo taken at most AAA offices for a small fee if you do not have one already.

Your driver's license must be valid on the day you explore. An expired license will not work. Your passport does not have to be valid for the entire year that your IDP will be valid, but it should be valid for at least part of your trip.

Bring the original documents, not copies. AAA and AATA staff will examine them in person to confirm your identity.

The step-by-step process at AAA or AATA

Walk into an AAA or AATA office during business hours with your documents. Tell the staff member you want to explore for an International Driving Permit. They will ask you to fill out a short form — usually one page — with your name, address, driver's license number, and passport number. This takes about five minutes.

The staff member will check your documents, take your photo if you did not bring one, and process your process on the spot. They will print your IDP right there. The entire visit usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. You walk out with your permit in hand the same day.

You do not need to make an appointment at most AAA offices, but calling ahead is a good idea during busy times. AATA offices are less common than AAA offices, so check their website to find one near you before you go.

Cost and how long your permit lasts

An International Driving Permit costs between $15 and $20, depending on whether you get it from AAA or AATA. AAA members sometimes receive a small discount. Cash, debit, and credit cards are usually accepted.

Your IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued. It expires on the same date one year later, regardless of when you actually travel. If you are planning a trip more than a year away, wait to explore until closer to your departure date — there is no point in getting a permit that will expire before you leave.

Your IDP is only valid outside the United States. If you are driving within the US, you need only your regular driver's license.

Finding an AAA or AATA office near you

AAA has offices in most US states and territories. Go to AAA.com and use their office locator tool to find the nearest one. You can search by zip code or city name. The website will show you the address, phone number, and hours of operation.

AATA has fewer locations than AAA. Visit AATA.org and look for their office locator. AATA offices are often found in travel agencies or at certain retail locations, so the search tool will help you confirm whether there is one in your area.

If there is no AAA or AATA office within reasonable distance, you have two options: make a trip to the nearest one, or contact AAA or AATA by phone to ask about mail-in options. Some offices may be able to process your process by mail, though this is not standard and takes longer.

What to do if you lose your IDP while traveling

If your permit is lost or stolen abroad, contact the US embassy or consulate in that country. They cannot issue a new IDP, but they can provide a letter confirming that you hold a valid US driver's license. This letter, combined with your passport, may be accepted by local police or car rental companies in place of the physical permit.

When you return to the US, you can explore for a replacement IDP at any AAA or AATA office using the same process as a first-time process. You will need to bring your driver's license, passport, and a new photo. There is no separate fee for a replacement — you pay the standard $15 to $20.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am renting a car in Europe?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Some European countries (like France and Germany) recommend an IDP even though they accept US licenses. Others do not require one. Contact your rental company and the country's embassy before you travel — they will tell you what they accept. Having an IDP does not hurt and costs only $15 to $20.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my US license is suspended or expired?

No. Your US driver's license must be valid and in good standing on the day you explore. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored and current.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document that works only with your US license. An international license is a separate license issued by another country. If you are moving abroad or planning to stay longer than a few months, you may need to get a license from that country instead.

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

Most AAA and AATA offices issue permits on the same day you explore in person. Mail-in processing, where available, typically takes one to two weeks. In-person process is faster and more reliable, so explore at an office if you can.

Can I renew my International Driving Permit before it expires?

Yes. You can explore for a new IDP at any time, even if your current one has not expired yet. You will pay the full fee again. If you are planning another trip after your current permit expires, you can explore for a new one when you are ready to travel.