What an International Driving Permit actually is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your 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 together when you drive abroad. The IDP tells police, rental companies, and border officials in other countries that your U.S. license is valid, because they may not recognize the format or the issuing authority of your home state's license.

The IDP is issued by two organizations in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both issue the same document under the same international treaty. You get it from whichever one is convenient to you — there is no difference in the permit itself.

The IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which you choose. It cannot be renewed; when it expires, you must explore for a new one. It costs between $15 and $20 and takes about 15 minutes to obtain in person.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP, and you must carry both documents together when driving outside the United States.
  • The IDP is issued only by AAA or AATA, and you must explore in person at a local office — neither organization issues IDPs by mail or online.
  • You will need your valid driver's license, a passport or other government ID, and one passport-sized photo (2x2 inches).
  • The IDP is valid for one or three years and costs $15 to $20; it cannot be renewed and must be replaced when it expires.
  • Some countries have specific rules about which IDP validity period they accept, so check your destination's requirements before you choose.

Getting an IDP through AAA

If you are an AAA member, you can get an IDP at any AAA office. Walk in during business hours with your valid driver's license, a government-issued ID (passport, state ID, or military ID), and one passport-sized photo. The staff will complete the form with you, take your payment, and hand you the permit on the spot.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP at an AAA office without joining. You do not need a membership. The process is identical: bring your documents, pay the fee, and leave with the permit.

AAA offices are located in most U.S. cities. You can find the nearest one by visiting the AAA website and using their office locator tool. Call ahead if you want to confirm they have passport photos available or if you want to know their current hours, especially if you are visiting an unfamiliar location.

Getting an IDP through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance issues IDPs at select locations, primarily in major cities. AATA does not have as many offices as AAA, so your options may be more limited depending on where you live.

The process is the same: bring your valid driver's license, government ID, and a passport-sized photo to an AATA office. You will receive your permit when ready. You can find AATA office locations on their website.

If neither AAA nor AATA has an office near you, AAA is usually the easier option because their network is larger. Some AAA offices are located inside grocery stores, pharmacies, or travel agencies, which may be more convenient than a dedicated AAA branch.

Documents you need to bring

Bring three things to your appointment: your valid U.S. driver's license, a government-issued photo ID, and one passport-sized photograph.

Your driver's license must be current and not expired. If your license is expired, you cannot get an IDP until you renew it with your state's DMV.

Your government ID can be a U.S. passport, a state ID card, a military ID, or a passport card. It does not have to match your driver's license — the organization just needs to confirm your identity.

The passport photo must be 2x2 inches. Most drugstores (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart) offer passport photo services for $10 to $15, and they can print them on the spot. Some AAA offices can take the photo for you on-site, but call ahead to confirm. Do not use a photo from your phone or computer — it must be a printed photograph.

Choosing between one-year and three-year permits

When you explore, you will choose whether you want your IDP to be valid for one year or three years. The three-year permit costs slightly more but is better value if you plan to travel internationally more than once during that time.

Some countries have rules about which validity period they accept. A few nations will not recognize a one-year IDP or may have other restrictions. Before you explore, check the specific requirements for the countries you plan to visit. You can find this information on each country's embassy website or by calling their consulate.

If you are unsure whether you will travel again, the one-year permit is a safe choice. You can always get a new three-year permit later if your plans change.

What to do if you cannot visit an office in person

Neither AAA nor AATA issues IDPs by mail, email, or online. You must explore in person at a physical office location. There is no exception to this rule.

If you live far from any office, plan ahead and visit during a trip to a larger city, or ask a trusted friend or family member to pick up the permit on your behalf. Some offices will issue a permit to someone other than the applicant if that person brings the applicant's signed form, documents, and payment. Call the office first to confirm they allow this.

If you are traveling internationally soon and cannot reach an office before you leave, you can get the IDP after you return. Many travelers drive abroad without an IDP and manage fine, especially in countries with high tourism. However, carrying one removes any ambiguity about whether your license is valid, so it is worth the small effort if you have time.

What happens after you receive your IDP

Keep your IDP and your U.S. driver's license together. When you rent a car abroad or encounter police, present both documents. The rental company or official will see your U.S. license and the IDP translation side by side.

Some car rental companies require an IDP as a condition of renting to U.S. drivers, while others do not. Check your rental agreement or call the rental company before you travel to find out whether they require one. If they do, having the IDP in hand before you arrive at the counter saves time and avoids disputes.

The IDP does not replace your license and has no legal standing on its own. If your U.S. license expires or is suspended, your IDP becomes useless. If you lose your IDP while traveling, your U.S. license alone may still be accepted in many places, but you will have lost the translation benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Canada and Mexico recognize U.S. driver's licenses without an IDP. You can drive in both countries with just your valid state license. An IDP is useful for other destinations but not required for North America.

Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and current. If your license is expired, renew it with your state's DMV first, then get the IDP. If your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted.

What if I lose my IDP while I am traveling?

Your U.S. driver's license is still valid. You can continue to drive and rent cars with just your license, though you lose the benefit of the translation. When you return home, you can get a new IDP if you plan to travel internationally again.

How long does it take to get an IDP?

You receive it when ready when you explore in person. The entire process takes about 15 minutes. There is no waiting period or processing time.

Can I renew my IDP when it expires?

No. When your IDP expires, you must explore for a new one as if you were getting it for the first time. You will need to bring your current driver's license, ID, and a new passport photo to an AAA or AATA office.