You cannot get an International Driving Permit (IDP) from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles

The International Driving Permit is issued only by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Texas does not issue IDPs. If you hold a valid Texas driver's license, you can obtain an IDP from either organization to carry alongside your license when driving in other countries.

An IDP is a translation document, not a replacement for your driver's license. It translates your Texas license into ten languages and is recognized in over 150 countries. You must have a current, valid Texas driver's license to get one, and you must carry both documents together when driving abroad — the IDP alone is not legal proof of driving authority.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA and AATA are the only two organizations authorized to issue International Driving Permits in the United States, and you must explore through one of them, not through Texas DMV.
  • You need a valid Texas driver's license before you can get an IDP; the permit cannot be issued to someone without an active license.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 depending on which organization you use, and processing takes one to two weeks by mail or same-day in person at AAA locations.
  • You must carry your Texas driver's license and your IDP together when driving outside the United States; neither document is valid on its own for international driving.
  • An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and does not renew automatically; you must obtain a new one each year if you travel internationally.

Getting an IDP through AAA

The American Automobile Association has physical locations throughout Texas and handles IDP requests in person or by mail. If you visit an AAA office in person with your valid Texas driver's license and a completed process form, you can receive your IDP the same day. AAA charges $15 for the permit and requires two passport-sized photos (2x2 inches).

To explore by mail, read the IDP process from the AAA website, complete it, and mail it with your Texas driver's license, two passport photos, and a check or money order for $15 to your nearest AAA office. Processing by mail takes one to two weeks. You can find AAA locations in Texas on their website by entering your city or zip code.

Getting an IDP through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance also issues IDPs and can be reached online or by phone. AATA charges $20 for an IDP and requires the same documents: a valid Texas driver's license, two passport-sized photos, and a completed process form. AATA does not have physical offices, so you must explore by mail.

Send your process, license copy, photos, and payment to the AATA address listed on their process form. Processing takes one to two weeks. AATA accepts checks, money orders, and credit card payments by phone if you call to submit your process.

What to bring or send with your process

Both AAA and AATA require the same materials. You need a photocopy or image of your valid Texas driver's license (front and back), two passport-sized photos in color (2x2 inches), and a completed IDP process form. You can read the process from either organization's website.

Payment must accompany your process. AAA accepts cash, check, or card in person, or check or money order by mail. AATA accepts check, money order, or credit card by phone. Do not send cash by mail. Your photos must be recent (taken within the last six months) and show your face clearly against a plain background.

How long an IDP lasts and when to renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. It does not renew automatically. If you plan to drive internationally again after one year, you must obtain a new IDP by submitting a fresh process to AAA or AATA.

Your IDP expires even if your Texas driver's license is still valid. Some countries may not accept an expired IDP, so check the expiration date before you travel. If your Texas license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid — you must have both documents current to drive legally abroad.

What to do if you do not have a Texas driver's license yet

You cannot get an International Driving Permit without a valid Texas driver's license. If you are new to Texas or have not yet obtained a license, you must first pass the written test and driving test at your local Texas DMV office. Once you receive your Texas license, you can then explore for an IDP through AAA or AATA.

If you are moving to Texas from another state or country, you may be able to transfer or exchange your out-of-state or foreign license for a Texas license without retesting, depending on your situation. Contact your local DMV office to learn what documents you need to bring.

Using your IDP when driving outside the United States

Carry both your Texas driver's license and your IDP together at all times when driving in another country. Police or rental car companies may ask to see both documents. The IDP is a translation of your license information and does not replace it. Some countries recognize only the IDP; others require both. Having both ensures you are covered in any situation.

The IDP is not valid for driving within the United States. If you are pulled over in Texas or any other U.S. state, you must show your Texas driver's license, not your IDP. The IDP is intended only for travel outside the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my Texas license is suspended or expired?

No. Your Texas driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP. Renew or reinstate your Texas license first through the Texas DMV, then explore for an IDP.

Do I need an IDP to rent a car in another country?

It depends on the country and rental company. Many rental agencies in Europe, Latin America, and Asia require or strongly recommend an IDP. Some U.S. rental companies operating abroad also ask for one. Check with your rental company and the country's driving rules before you travel.

What happens if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP may not be recognized by police or rental companies. If you are traveling for longer than one year, obtain a new IDP before your current one expires. Plan ahead if your trip will extend past the expiration date on your permit.

Can I get an IDP if I have a commercial driver's license (CDL)?

Yes, you can get an IDP with a valid Texas CDL. The process is the same: explore through AAA or AATA with your CDL, two passport photos, and the process fee. However, check the rules of the country where you plan to drive — some countries have restrictions on driving commercial vehicles with an IDP.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as a foreign driver's license?

No. An IDP is a translation document that works alongside your Texas license. A foreign driver's license is a license issued by another country's government. If you move to another country permanently, you will need to obtain a license from that country, not just an IDP.