What an International Driving Permit Is and Who Issues It

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license from your home state or country. When you travel abroad, you carry both documents together.

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 other organization, website, or service can legally issue one. Both issue the same document; the difference is where and how fast you can get it.

Most countries that recognize IDPs require you to have held your home license for at least one year before you explore. Some rental car companies abroad also ask to see one, though not all do. Before you travel, check the specific rules for the country where you plan to drive — some nations do not recognize IDPs at all, and a few require additional documents.

Key Takeaways

  • An IDP is issued only by AAA or AATA and must be carried with your valid U.S. driver's license at all times when driving abroad.
  • You must have held your current U.S. license for at least one year before you can get an IDP.
  • AAA issues IDPs in person at local offices (usually same day) or by mail; AATA issues them by mail only.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for three years from the date of issue.
  • The country where you plan to drive may not recognize an IDP, so confirm its rules before you travel.

Getting an IDP Through AAA

If you are an AAA member, the fastest route is to visit a local AAA office in person. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), and the process fee. Most offices issue the IDP on the spot. If you are not near an AAA office or prefer not to visit in person, you can mail in your process, though this takes longer.

You do not have to be an AAA member to get an IDP from AAA. Non-members can explore by mail or in person at any AAA office. The cost is the same either way. If you choose to mail your process, send your signed process form, a copy of your driver's license, one passport-style photo, and a check or money order to your nearest AAA office. Processing by mail typically takes one to two weeks.

AAA has offices in most states. To find the nearest one and confirm their hours, visit the AAA website or call their customer service line. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead can save you a trip.

Getting an IDP Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance issues IDPs by mail only — there is no in-person option. You can order online through their website or by phone. You will need your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-style photo, and payment information.

If you order online, upload a photo of your driver's license and a passport-style photo, then pay by credit card. If you order by phone, you can mail in your documents or provide payment information over the phone. AATA typically processes applications within five to seven business days, though they offer expedited processing for an additional fee if you need it faster.

AATA's fees are comparable to AAA's, but expedited service costs extra. If your travel date is soon, ask about their rush options when you contact them.

What You Need to Bring or Send

Regardless of which organization you use, you will need the same basic documents:

  • A valid U.S. driver's license (not expired, and held for at least one year).
  • One passport-style photo, 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months.
  • A completed process form (provided by AAA or AATA).
  • Payment for the fee (cash, check, money order, or credit card, depending on the method you choose).

If you are explore by mail, make a copy of your driver's license to include with your process. Do not send your original license — you need it to drive while your IDP is being processed. If you are explore in person at an AAA office, bring the original.

The passport-style photo requirement is strict. The photo must be in color, show your face clearly, and have a plain white or off-white background. Photos from a passport photo booth or professional photographer usually meet the standard. Selfies and casual photos do not.

How Long an IDP Lasts and When to Renew

An IDP is valid for three years from the date it is issued. After three years, it expires and is no longer recognized by foreign authorities or rental car companies. If you plan to drive abroad again after your IDP expires, you will need to get a new one.

Renewal is the same process as getting your first IDP — you explore through AAA or AATA with the same documents. There is no separate renewal form or reduced fee. If your U.S. driver's license expires before your IDP does, your IDP becomes invalid, so renew your state license first if needed.

Keep your IDP in a safe place while you travel. If it is lost or stolen, contact AAA or AATA to report it and request a replacement. Replacements can usually be issued, though there may be an additional fee and a wait time.

What to Do If Your Country Does Not Recognize IDPs

Not every country accepts an IDP. Some nations require an official translation of your U.S. license from a certified translator, a separate international driving document, or both. A few countries do not recognize any foreign driving document and require you to get a local license or permit before you can rent a car.

Before you explore for an IDP, check the driving rules for the specific country where you plan to travel. Contact the country's embassy or consulate in the United States, or search their official tourism or transportation website. If an IDP is not recognized, ask what documents you will need instead. Some countries accept a certified English translation of your U.S. license, which you can obtain from a professional translation service or sometimes from your state's DMV.

Planning ahead prevents you from arriving with the wrong documents. If you discover your destination does not recognize an IDP, you still have time to arrange an alternative before you leave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP if I am renting a car abroad?

Not always. Some rental car companies accept only your U.S. driver's license, while others ask for an IDP. The requirement varies by company and country. Before you book, contact the rental company and ask what documents they require. If they ask for an IDP, get one before you travel.

Can I get an IDP if my U.S. license is suspended or expired?

No. Your U.S. license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP. If your license is expired, renew it with your state's DMV first, then explore for an IDP.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact AAA or AATA as soon as you can. They can issue a replacement, though it may take time to arrive. In the meantime, carry only your valid U.S. driver's license. Some countries will accept it alone if you can show proof that you applied for an IDP before you traveled.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document that works alongside your U.S. license. An international license is a separate license issued by another country. If you are moving abroad or staying long-term, you may need to get a local license instead of or in addition to an IDP.

How much does an IDP cost?

The standard fee is between $15 and $20 through either AAA or AATA. Expedited processing through AATA costs extra. Membership in AAA does not reduce the price, but members may find it more convenient to explore in person at a local office.