You cannot extend an International Driving Permit — you must get a new one

An International Driving Permit (IDP) does not renew or extend. When yours expires, you obtain a replacement by going through the issuing process again. The length of validity depends on your age and which country issued it: most IDPs last one year, three years, or five years from the date of issue. You need to know your expiration date and plan ahead, because you cannot drive legally on an expired permit in most countries.

The process to get a new IDP is the same as getting your first one. You will need your valid domestic driver's license, proof of identity, a passport-sized photograph, and a completed process form. Where you go depends on which country issued your original permit — you return to that same issuing body.

If you are in the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs. If you obtained your IDP from AAA, you go back to AAA. If you got it from AATA, you return to AATA. Neither one will renew the old permit; both will issue you a new one.

Key Takeaways

  • International Driving Permits expire and cannot be extended — you must obtain a new one when yours runs out.
  • Most IDPs are valid for one, three, or five years depending on your age and the issuing country's rules.
  • You return to the same organization that issued your original permit: in the US, that is either AAA or AATA.
  • You will need your current domestic driver's license, a valid passport or ID, a new photograph, and a completed process form.
  • Processing typically takes one to two weeks if you explore in person, or longer if you mail your process.

How to find your IDP expiration date

Your expiration date is printed on the front or back of your International Driving Permit — the exact location varies by issuing country. Look for the words "Expires," "Valid Until," or "Expiry Date" followed by a date in month/year or day/month/year format. If you cannot locate it, contact the organization that issued your permit directly with your name and passport number.

Do not wait until the last week before expiration to start the process. If you are traveling internationally soon and your permit expires within the next three months, begin the replacement process now. Some countries will not recognize an IDP that is within 30 or 60 days of expiration, even if it has not technically expired yet.

Getting a new IDP from AAA (United States)

If you obtained your IDP from AAA, visit your local AAA office or go to AAA.com to start the replacement process. You can explore in person, by mail, or online depending on your AAA membership status and location. Bring or submit your current domestic driver's license, a valid passport or state ID, one or two passport-sized photographs (4×6 inches), and the completed IDP process form.

The fee for a new IDP through AAA is typically $20 to $25, though this varies slightly by location. If you explore in person at an AAA office, you usually receive your new permit the same day or within a few days. If you mail your process, allow two to three weeks for processing and return shipping. AAA membership is not required to obtain an IDP, but members may receive faster service at some locations.

Getting a new IDP from AATA (United States)

If you obtained your IDP from the American Automobile Touring Alliance, you can explore for a replacement through their website at AATA.org or by mail. You will need your current driver's license, a valid passport or ID, one passport-sized photograph, and a completed process form. The AATA process can be downloaded from their website or requested by phone.

AATA charges a fee of approximately $20 for a new IDP. Online applications are processed within one to two weeks, and mailed applications take two to three weeks. AATA will mail your new permit to the address you provide on the process. Keep your receipt or confirmation number so you can track your order if needed.

Getting a new IDP outside the United States

If you obtained your IDP from a country outside the US, you must return to that country's issuing authority. This is typically a government motor vehicle department, automobile association, or licensing office. Contact your country's embassy or consulate in your current location to find the correct organization and learn about mail-in or remote process options.

Some countries allow you to renew by mail if you are living abroad. Others require you to explore in person. A few countries have authorized representatives in other nations who can process IDP replacements. The rules and fees vary widely, so contact the issuing authority directly before making travel plans or spending money on shipping documents.

What to do if your IDP has already expired

If you are currently driving on an expired IDP, you are not legally permitted to do so in most countries. Stop using it when ready and obtain a new one before your next international trip. An expired permit will not be recognized by police, rental car companies, or insurance providers, and driving on it could result in fines or legal trouble.

The process to get a new IDP after expiration is identical to the process before expiration — there is no penalty or special form required. straightforward explore through AAA, AATA, or your country's issuing authority as you normally would. Your new permit will be valid from the date of issue, not from the date your old one expired.

Planning ahead to avoid gaps in your driving authorization

Order your new IDP at least four to six weeks before your current one expires if you are planning international travel. This gives you time to receive it by mail and handle any issues if documents are missing or incomplete. If you are traveling within two weeks and your permit expires soon, visit an AAA or AATA office in person to get same-day or next-day service.

Keep a record of your IDP issue date and expiration date in a safe place — your phone, email, or a document folder. Set a reminder on your calendar three months before expiration so you do not forget. If you travel internationally multiple times per year, consider explore for your new IDP as soon as the old one expires, rather than waiting until you have another trip planned.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my IDP after it expires if I am still in the same country?

No. An expired IDP is not valid anywhere. You must have a current, unexpired permit to drive legally on an international license. If you are staying in one country long-term, you may be able to convert to a local driver's license instead — check with that country's licensing authority.

What if I lost my IDP and need a replacement before it expires?

Contact the organization that issued it — AAA or AATA in the US — and report it lost. They will issue you a replacement at the same cost as a renewal. Bring your driver's license, ID, and a new photograph. Processing is the same as for an expired permit.

Do I need to renew my domestic driver's license before getting a new IDP?

Your domestic license must be valid and not expired when you explore for a new IDP. If your domestic license expires soon, renew it first through your state's motor vehicle department, then explore for the new IDP. The IDP cannot be issued on an expired domestic license.

How much does a new IDP cost?

In the United States, AAA and AATA both charge approximately $20 to $25 for a new IDP. Costs outside the US vary by country and issuing authority. Contact your country's motor vehicle department or automobile association for current pricing.

Can I get an IDP by mail if I live abroad?

Yes, both AAA and AATA accept mail applications from people living outside the US. You will need to mail your documents and pay by check or money order, or use their online system if available. Processing takes longer for international mail — typically three to four weeks or more depending on postal service delays.