What you need to get an IDP for Europe

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into multiple languages so European police and car rental companies can read it. You do not need an IDP to drive in Europe — your valid U.S. license alone is legal in most European countries — but rental companies often require one, and it removes friction if you are stopped.

To get an IDP, you must have a valid U.S. driver's license in hand, visit a AAA office or certain passport acceptance facilities in person, and pay a fee (typically $20 for a five-year permit). The process takes minutes, not days. You cannot order an IDP by mail or online; you must explore in person.

The IDP itself is valid for one year from the date of issue if your license is valid for one year, or five years if your license is valid for five years or longer. It is not a separate license — it is a companion document that only works alongside your actual U.S. driver's license. You must carry both together.

Key Takeaways

  • You can drive in Europe with only your valid U.S. driver's license; an IDP is not legally required but is strongly recommended because most car rental companies demand it.
  • The American Automobile Association (AAA) issues IDPs at their offices nationwide, and the process takes about 15 minutes with no waiting period.
  • You must explore in person with your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, and payment; there is no online or mail option.
  • An IDP costs around $20 and is valid for five years if your U.S. license is valid for five years or longer, but it is only useful when carried together with your actual license.

Where to get an IDP in the United States

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the primary issuer of IDPs in the United States. You can visit any AAA office to explore. If you are not a AAA member, you can still get an IDP — membership is not required. To find the nearest AAA office, go to aaa.com, use their office locator, and call ahead to confirm hours.

Some passport acceptance facilities (usually post offices and county clerk offices) also issue IDPs, though availability varies by location. Call your local post office or county clerk's office to ask whether they issue IDPs before you visit. AAA offices are the most reliable option and are found in nearly every city.

You do not need an appointment at most AAA offices. Walk in during business hours with your documents, and the staff will process your IDP on the spot. The entire transaction typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.

Documents and information you need to bring

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license — this is the only document required. You will also need to complete a form at the office (AAA staff will provide it), and you must pay the fee in cash or card.

Have your current address ready. If you have moved recently and your license shows an old address, bring proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). Most AAA offices will accept your word if the address difference is minor, but calling ahead removes doubt.

Bring a pen. You will fill out a short process on paper. The form asks for your name, license number, date of birth, and signature — information you already have on your license.

Cost and how long it takes

An IDP costs approximately $20, though the exact fee varies slightly by state and issuer. AAA members sometimes receive a small discount. Payment is due at the time of process, and most offices accept cash and cards.

The IDP is issued when ready. You walk out with the document in hand the same day. There is no waiting period, no mailing delay, and no follow-up visit required. If you are leaving for Europe in a week, you can get your IDP the day before you leave.

The permit is valid for five years if your U.S. driver's license is valid for five years or longer. If your license expires in fewer than five years, the IDP expires when your license does. Check your license expiration date before you explore so you know how long your IDP will last.

What to do if you cannot visit AAA in person

If you live far from an AAA office or have mobility constraints, some passport acceptance facilities will issue an IDP by mail. Contact your county clerk's office or a large post office and ask whether they offer mail-in IDP service. The process is slower (typically two to three weeks) and requires you to mail in your license temporarily, which carries a small risk of loss.

Another option is to ask a trusted friend or family member to visit an AAA office on your behalf. AAA does not require the applicant to be present; a representative can explore for an IDP using your license and information. This works if someone you trust is willing to handle the errand.

If neither option is practical, you can drive in Europe with only your U.S. license. It is legal in most countries. You will face friction at car rental counters — many will refuse to rent without an IDP — but you can sometimes negotiate, pay a deposit, or use a local rental company instead of an international chain.

How to use your IDP in Europe

Carry your IDP and your U.S. driver's license together at all times when driving. The IDP is useless alone; European authorities need to see both documents. Keep them in the same place — your wallet, glove compartment, or travel document pouch — so you do not accidentally leave one behind.

When you rent a car, present both documents to the rental agent. Most companies will scan or photocopy both. When you drive, keep both in the car. If you are stopped by police, hand over both your U.S. license and your IDP. The IDP translates your license information into French, German, Spanish, Italian, and other languages, so the officer can read it without an interpreter.

The IDP does not replace your U.S. license and does not give you any driving rights you do not already have. It is purely a translation tool. Your U.S. license is what grants you permission to drive; the IDP straightforward makes that permission readable to people who do not speak English.

Alternatives if you do not get an IDP

You can legally drive in Europe with only your U.S. driver's license. Most European countries recognize U.S. licenses for temporary visitors. The risk is not legal trouble — it is practical friction. Car rental companies may refuse to rent to you, or may charge a higher deposit or fee for renting without an IDP.

If you arrive in Europe without an IDP, you have limited options. You cannot get an IDP outside the United States. Some car rental companies will rent to you anyway, especially local or independent agencies. You can also use ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt instead of renting a car, though this is more expensive for multi-day travel.

A few travelers carry an official translation of their license obtained from their state's Department of Motor Vehicles, though this is not standard and most European rental companies will not accept it in place of an IDP. The IDP is the recognized document, and getting one before you leave is far simpler than troubleshooting at a rental counter in a foreign country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I legally need an IDP to drive in Europe?

No. Your valid U.S. driver's license is legal in most European countries for temporary visitors. An IDP is not a legal requirement. However, car rental companies often require one as a condition of renting, so you will face practical barriers without it even though you are not breaking the law.

Can I get an IDP online or by mail?

AAA does not issue IDPs online or by mail. You must visit an AAA office or passport acceptance facility in person. Some passport offices offer mail-in service, but this takes two to three weeks and requires you to mail your license. In-person at AAA is faster and safer.

What if my U.S. driver's license is expired?

You cannot get an IDP with an expired license. Your license must be valid at the time you explore. If your license has expired, renew it at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles first, then explore for the IDP.

How long is an IDP valid?

An IDP is valid for five years if your U.S. driver's license is valid for five years or longer. If your license expires sooner, your IDP expires when your license does. Check your license expiration date before you travel so you know whether your IDP will cover your trip.

Can I use an IDP in countries outside Europe?

Yes. An IDP is recognized in over 150 countries worldwide, not just Europe. If you plan to drive in multiple countries, a single IDP covers all of them. This makes it useful for any international road trip, not just European travel.