What an International Driving Permit Is and Who Issues It
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 — it is a companion document that works only when you carry your valid U.S. license with it. The IDP does not give you driving rights you do not already have; it straightforward makes your existing license readable to police and rental car companies in other countries.
In the United States, only two organizations are authorized to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No DMV, state agency, or online service can issue one. Both organizations issue the same document under the same international treaty, so the choice between them depends only on which is closer to you or more convenient.
An IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which you request. It expires on a fixed date regardless of when your U.S. license expires, so you may need to renew your IDP even if your state license is still valid.
Key Takeaways
- You must obtain your IDP from AAA or AATA in person; neither organization issues them by mail or online.
- You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-style photo, and the correct fee to receive an IDP on the same day.
- An IDP costs between $15 and $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit, depending on the issuing organization.
- Your IDP is valid only when carried together with your U.S. driver's license; neither document works alone outside the United States.
- Some countries do not recognize IDPs and require an official translation of your license from a certified translator instead.
Step-by-Step Process to Obtain an IDP
The process is straightforward because both AAA and AATA issue IDPs on the spot. You do not need an appointment at most locations, though calling ahead to confirm hours is wise.
Step 1: Gather your documents. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license (it must not be expired), your passport or other government-issued photo ID, and a completed IDP process form. You can read the AAA form or AATA form from their websites before you go, or you can fill it out in person at the office.
Step 2: Provide a passport-style photo. You will need one 2×2-inch color photograph. Some AAA and AATA offices have photo services on-site; others do not. Call ahead to ask whether you should bring your own photo or whether they can take one for you (usually for an additional $5 to $10).
Step 3: Pay the fee and receive your permit. Hand over your documents, photo, and payment. The staff will verify your information, affix your photo to the permit, and give you the completed IDP when ready. The entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Where to Find AAA and AATA Offices
AAA has over 1,000 offices across the United States. You can find the nearest one by entering your zip code on the AAA website. Not every AAA office issues IDPs, so confirm by phone or online before you visit.
AATA has fewer locations than AAA but covers most major cities. You can search for AATA offices on their website or call 1-800-622-7070 to find the nearest one that issues IDPs.
If you live in a rural area far from either organization, you may be able to request that an IDP be mailed to you, though this is not the standard process. Contact AAA or AATA directly to ask whether mail service is available in your area.
Documents You Must Bring
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid U.S. driver's license | Must not be expired. Temporary or paper licenses are not accepted. |
| Government-issued photo ID | Passport, passport card, or state ID. Must match the name on your driver's license. |
| Completed IDP process | Form DL-43 (AAA) or equivalent (AATA). Available online or at the office. |
| Passport-style photo | 2×2 inches, color, taken within the last six months. Bring your own or have one taken at the office. |
| Payment | Cash, check, or credit card. Amount depends on validity period and issuing organization. |
Fees and Validity Periods
AAA charges $15 for a one-year IDP and $30 for a three-year IDP. AATA charges $20 for a one-year permit and $35 for a three-year permit. Fees may vary slightly by location, so confirm the exact amount when you call or visit.
A one-year IDP is useful if you are taking a single trip abroad and do not plan to travel internationally again soon. A three-year IDP makes sense if you travel regularly or are unsure when you might need it next. Remember that your IDP expires on a set date, not on the anniversary of when you received it, so plan your renewal accordingly if you travel frequently.
Neither AAA nor AATA offers refunds if you change your mind after purchase, so choose your validity period carefully before you pay.
When You Cannot Get an IDP and What to Do Instead
A small number of countries do not recognize IDPs issued under the 1926 or 1968 international conventions. These countries include some nations in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. If you are traveling to one of these countries, you will need an official translation of your U.S. driver's license instead.
An official translation must be prepared by a certified translator or by your state's DMV. Some states offer translation services; others do not. Contact your state DMV to ask whether they provide translations, and if not, ask for a list of certified translators in your area. You can also search for certified translators through the American Translators Association website.
The cost of an official translation ranges from $25 to $75, depending on the translator and your state. The process takes one to two weeks. If you are leaving soon and need a translation, contact translators in your area when ready to ask about rush services.
Using Your IDP Abroad
Carry your IDP and your U.S. driver's license together at all times when driving outside the United States. Police in other countries will not accept the IDP alone; they must see both documents together. If you lose your U.S. license while traveling, your IDP becomes useless.
Rental car companies in most countries will accept an IDP as proof of your driving record, though some may also ask to see your U.S. license. A few rental companies, particularly in Europe, may require an official translation in addition to your IDP and license. Check with the rental company before you book to learn what documents they need.
An IDP does not change the driving laws of the country you are visiting. You must still follow local speed limits, traffic signs, and vehicle regulations. The IDP straightforward makes your U.S. license readable to authorities who may not speak English.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an IDP online or by mail?
No. AAA and AATA issue IDPs only in person at their offices. You must visit a physical location, bring your documents and photo, and receive the permit the same day. No online service or mail-order option exists.
What if my U.S. driver's license is expired?
You cannot get an IDP with an expired license. Renew your U.S. license first through your state DMV, then visit AAA or AATA to obtain your IDP. This adds one to two weeks to the process, so plan ahead if you have an upcoming trip.
Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car, not driving?
If you are renting a car, you will need an IDP or official translation. Rental companies require proof that you are a licensed driver, and an IDP is the fastest way to provide that proof in a language the rental company can read. Without one, you may not be able to rent a vehicle.
Can I renew my IDP before it expires?
Yes. You can renew your IDP at any time by visiting AAA or AATA with your expiring permit, a new photo, and payment. You do not have to wait until it expires. This is useful if you are planning a trip and your current IDP will expire while you are abroad.
What countries do not accept IDPs?
A small number of countries, primarily in the Middle East and parts of Asia and Africa, do not recognize IDPs. Check with your destination country's embassy or consulate before you travel to confirm whether an IDP is accepted. If not, you will need an official translation of your U.S. license instead.