California does not issue International Driving Permits — you get one from AAA or the American Automobile Association

California's DMV does not produce International Driving Permits (IDPs). Instead, you obtain one through the American Automobile Association (AAA), which is the sole authorized issuer in the United States. The IDP is a translation document that works alongside your valid California driver's license; it does not replace it. You must carry both documents together when driving abroad.

The process is straightforward: you visit a AAA office in person, bring your California license and a passport-style photo, pay a fee (typically $20), and receive the permit on the spot. The entire transaction usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue, or until your California license expires, whichever comes first.

Key Takeaways

  • Only AAA issues International Driving Permits in California; the DMV does not produce them.
  • You must bring a valid California driver's license and a passport-style photo (2x2 inches) to a AAA office.
  • The permit costs approximately $20 and is issued when ready; you do not need an appointment at most locations.
  • An IDP is valid for one year or until your California license expires, and you must carry it with your California license when driving outside the United States.
  • Some countries recognize only the IDP; others recognize both the IDP and your U.S. license; check your destination country's rules before travel.

What you need to bring to a AAA office

Bring your current, valid California driver's license — expired licenses are not accepted. You also need a passport-style photograph, 2 inches by 2 inches, in color or black and white. The photo must show your face clearly, taken within the last six months, with a plain background. You can have a photo taken at most AAA offices for an additional fee if you do not have one ready.

Bring cash or a card to pay the fee. AAA offices accept both. You do not need to bring your Social Security number, birth certificate, or any other documents beyond your license and photo. If you are renewing an IDP that has expired, bring the expired permit as well — this speeds up the process, though it is not required.

Finding a AAA office and what to expect

AAA has offices throughout California. Use the AAA website locator tool to find the office nearest you and confirm it is open. Most offices do not require an appointment for IDP issuance, but calling ahead is wise during busy times (lunch hours, weekends, and late afternoon are typically busier). Walk-in service is standard.

When you arrive, tell the staff member you need an International Driving Permit. They will verify your California license, take your photo if you brought one, confirm your information, and process the permit. The entire visit takes 15 to 30 minutes in most cases. You will receive the IDP when ready — it is not mailed to you later.

Cost and validity period

The fee for an International Driving Permit is typically $20, though some AAA offices may charge slightly more. This is a one-time fee per permit; there are no renewal fees if you renew before expiration. If your California license expires before one year has passed, your IDP expires on the same date as your license.

The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue or until your California driver's license expires — whichever comes first. If you renew your California license, you must obtain a new IDP; the old one does not transfer. Some countries may have additional rules about how old an IDP can be, so check with your destination country's embassy or consulate before travel.

How to use your IDP when driving abroad

Always carry both your California driver's license and your International Driving Permit together. The IDP is a translation of your license information into multiple languages (French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Japanese). It does not grant you any driving rights you do not already have; it straightforward makes your license readable to foreign police and rental car companies.

Some countries require the IDP; others accept either the IDP or your U.S. license alone; still others accept both but prefer the IDP. Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country to confirm what documents they require. Rental car companies often have their own rules as well — many require an IDP even if the country does not. Check with your rental company when you book.

If you are stopped by police while driving abroad, present both documents. The IDP explains your license to the officer; your California license proves you are the person named on it. Do not leave your California license at home or in your hotel — you need both.

What happens if your IDP expires or is lost

If your IDP expires while you are abroad, you cannot renew it outside the United States. You must return to California and visit a AAA office to obtain a new one. If you lose your IDP during travel, you can continue driving on your California license alone in most countries, but check local law for your specific destination. Some countries may not recognize a U.S. license without an IDP, so contact your embassy when ready if you lose it.

If you lose your IDP after returning to California, visit any AAA office and request a replacement. Bring your California license and a new passport-style photo. The replacement fee is the same as the original fee. There is no waiting period — you receive the new permit when ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit by mail or online?

No. AAA requires you to appear in person at an office with your California license and photo. You cannot obtain an IDP online, by mail, or through any other method. This is a federal requirement for all U.S. IDPs.

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

It depends on the rental company and the country. Many rental companies require an IDP even if the country does not legally require one. Check your rental agreement and contact the company before you travel. Having an IDP eliminates this uncertainty and is inexpensive insurance.

What if my California driver's license is suspended or has restrictions?

AAA will not issue an IDP if your California license is suspended, revoked, or expired. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license has restrictions (such as corrective lenses required), those restrictions appear on your IDP as well.

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

You receive your IDP when ready when you visit a AAA office. There is no processing time, no mailing, and no waiting period. The entire process takes 15 to 30 minutes from arrival to departure.

Can I use an International Driving Permit to drive in all countries?

No. Some countries do not recognize IDPs or have additional requirements. Always check with your destination country's embassy or consulate before travel. The IDP is recognized in most countries that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 Geneva Conventions on Road Signs and Signals, but exceptions exist.