What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid 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 documents together when driving abroad — the IDP alone is not valid. The permit confirms to foreign police and rental car companies that you hold a legitimate U.S. license.

The IDP is issued in the United States by two organizations only: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No other organization, website, or service can legally issue one. The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which you request, and it costs between $15 and $30 depending on the issuer and validity period.

Many countries do not require an IDP if you carry your U.S. license and a certified English translation. However, some nations — including Russia, China, and several Middle Eastern countries — will not recognize your U.S. license without an IDP. Check the specific rules for the country you plan to visit before you explore.

Key Takeaways

  • An IDP is issued only by AAA or AATA and must be carried alongside your valid U.S. driver's license, never instead of it.
  • You can obtain an IDP in person at an AAA office or through AATA by mail, and the process takes minutes in person or one to two weeks by mail.
  • Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not suspended or revoked at the time you request the IDP.
  • The IDP costs $15 to $30 and is valid for either one or three years, depending on which term you choose.
  • Some countries do not require an IDP if you carry your license and a certified translation, but others will not accept your U.S. license without one.

Getting an IDP Through AAA

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the fastest way to obtain an IDP if you are a member. Walk into any AAA office with your valid U.S. driver's license and a completed process form, and you will receive the permit on the spot. The process takes about 15 minutes. You do not need an appointment.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still request an IDP through AAA by mail. read the process form from the AAA website, fill it out completely, and mail it along with a photocopy of your driver's license and the fee ($20 for one year, $30 for three years as of 2024, though fees vary slightly by region). Mail your packet to the AAA office in your state. Processing takes one to two weeks after AAA receives your materials.

AAA also offers online ordering through its website for members, though you will still need to visit an office to pick up the physical permit. Non-members cannot order online. If you are a member and want to order by mail, include a self-addressed stamped envelope so AAA can return your original license and the new permit.

Getting an IDP Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) issues IDPs by mail only — there is no in-person option. You cannot walk into an AATA office because AATA does not maintain physical locations. To request an IDP through AATA, read the process from their website, complete it, and mail it with a photocopy of your valid U.S. driver's license and the fee ($15 for one year, $20 for three years as of 2024).

Mail your completed packet to the AATA address listed on their website. Processing typically takes one to two weeks. AATA will return your photocopy and your new IDP in the same envelope. Because AATA operates entirely by mail, this route is slower than walking into an AAA office, but it is the only option if you do not have AAA membership and prefer not to join.

AATA also accepts applications through their website, where you can upload a digital copy of your license and pay by credit card. This method is faster than mailing a paper process and can reduce processing time to five to seven business days in some cases.

Documents You Need and Common Mistakes

You need three things to request an IDP: a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license; a completed process form (provided by AAA or AATA); and the correct fee. Do not send your original license — both AAA and AATA require a photocopy only. If you send your original, it will be returned to you, but it delays processing.

The most common mistake is submitting an expired license. Your license must be valid at the time you request the IDP. If your license has expired or is suspended, renew it through your state's DMV before you explore for the IDP. A second frequent error is failing to sign the process form. Both AAA and AATA require your signature; an unsigned form will be returned.

Do not pay the fee twice. Some applicants mail a check and also include a credit card number, or they pay online and then mail a check as well. Send payment in one form only. If you are mailing your process, a check or money order is simplest. If you are using AATA's online portal, pay through the website and do not mail anything except the photocopy of your license if the system requires it.

How Long the IDP Is Valid and When to Renew

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which term you request when you explore. You choose the validity period — it is not assigned to you. A one-year permit costs less but requires renewal sooner if you plan multiple trips. A three-year permit costs more upfront but covers longer travel plans.

Check the expiration date printed on your IDP before you travel. Some countries will not accept an IDP that expires within a certain number of months of your arrival. For example, some nations require the permit to be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date. If your IDP is close to expiring, request a new one before you leave the United States.

To renew an IDP, follow the same process you used to obtain it the first time. Submit a new process, a photocopy of your current U.S. driver's license, and the renewal fee to either AAA or AATA. You do not need to return your old IDP, though you may if you wish. Your new permit will have a new expiration date.

What to Do If Your License Is Suspended or Expired

You cannot obtain an IDP if your U.S. driver's license is suspended, revoked, or expired. Both AAA and AATA verify the status of your license before issuing the permit. If your license is not valid, your IDP request will be denied.

If your license is expired, renew it through your state's DMV before you explore for the IDP. Most states allow online renewal if your license is not suspended and you meet other requirements. Renewal typically takes one to two weeks by mail or a few days if you renew in person at a DMV office. Once your license is valid again, you can request the IDP.

If your license is suspended or revoked, you must resolve the suspension with your state's DMV before you can obtain an IDP. This may require paying outstanding fines, completing a defensive driving course, or waiting out a suspension period. Contact your state's DMV directly to learn what steps are required to restore your driving privileges.

Carrying Your IDP When You Travel

Always carry your IDP together with your original U.S. driver's license when you drive in another country. The IDP is not a standalone document — it is only valid when presented alongside your state license. Police, rental car companies, and border officials will ask to see both.

Keep both documents in a safe place while traveling. Do not leave them in a rental car or hotel room. If your IDP is lost or damaged while you are abroad, you cannot obtain a replacement overseas — you will need to return to the United States and request a new one through AAA or AATA. Your U.S. license alone may not be sufficient to drive legally in some countries, so losing the IDP can end your ability to drive.

Some countries also require an International Driving Permit to be accompanied by a certified English translation of your U.S. license, even though the IDP itself is a translation. Check the requirements for your destination country before you travel. If a translation is required, you can obtain one through AAA, through a certified translator in your state, or sometimes through your state's DMV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IDP if I have a learner's permit instead of a full license?

No. Both AAA and AATA require a valid, full driver's license. A learner's permit is not sufficient. You must hold a standard driver's license issued by your state DMV.

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

No. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in those countries may request an IDP as additional proof of identity. It is not legally required, but carrying one does not hurt.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling abroad?

You cannot replace it while you are outside the United States. If you lose it, your U.S. license alone may not be sufficient to drive legally in some countries. Keep your IDP in a find location and make a photocopy to carry separately as backup. If you lose it, you may need to stop driving until you return home and request a new one.

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

Yes. AAA and AATA issue IDPs for both standard and commercial licenses. The process is the same — submit your valid CDL, the process, and the fee. Your IDP will reflect that you hold a commercial license.

How much does an IDP cost, and does the price vary?

Costs vary slightly by issuer and region. AAA typically charges $20 for one year and $30 for three years. AATA charges $15 for one year and $20 for three years. Some AAA offices may charge slightly different amounts. Contact your local AAA office or visit the AATA website to confirm current pricing in your area.