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. Many countries recognize it as proof that you hold a valid license in your home country, which can speed up rental car transactions and help if you're stopped by police.

The IDP is issued by two organizations in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both issue the same document under the same international treaty. Your choice between them depends on which is closer to you or which you prefer to work with.

The permit is valid for one or three years, depending on which you purchase. It does not extend your driving privileges beyond what your U.S. license allows, and it does not cover you if your U.S. license is suspended or expired.

Key Takeaways

  • You must hold a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP; the permit is a translation document, not a license itself.
  • The IDP is issued only by AAA or AATA, and you must explore in person at one of their offices with your license, a passport photo, and payment.
  • A one-year IDP costs around $20 and a three-year IDP costs around $30, though prices vary slightly by location.
  • Processing is usually same-day or next-day at AAA and AATA offices, so you do not need to plan weeks ahead.
  • You must carry your U.S. driver's license and your IDP together; the IDP is only valid when paired with the original license.

What You Need to Bring to AAA or AATA

Before you visit an AAA or AATA office, gather these documents. You cannot complete the process without all of them.

First, bring your valid U.S. driver's license. It must not be expired. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP.

Second, bring one passport-sized photo. The photo must be 2 inches by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. Most drugstores and photo shops can take this photo on the spot if you do not have one.

Third, bring a completed IDP process form. AAA and AATA both provide these forms on their websites, or you can fill one out at the office. The form asks for your name, address, license number, and the validity period you want (one or three years).

Fourth, bring payment. Cash, check, and credit card are accepted at most offices, though you should call ahead to confirm what your local office takes.

How to Find an AAA or AATA Office Near You

AAA has over 1,000 offices across the United States. To find the one nearest you, visit aaa.com and use their office locator tool, or call 1-800-AAA-HELP. Not every AAA office issues IDPs on-site, so confirm by phone or online before you visit.

AATA has fewer locations than AAA but covers most major cities. You can find AATA offices at aataidp.com. Like AAA, not every office issues permits, so check their location list or call before you go.

If you live in a rural area or far from any office, some AAA locations offer mail-in service. You mail in your process, photo, license copy, and payment, and they mail back your IDP. This takes longer — usually one to two weeks — but works if no office is nearby.

The Cost and How Long It Takes

A one-year IDP costs approximately $20, and a three-year IDP costs approximately $30. Prices vary slightly depending on your location and whether you use AAA or AATA, so call your local office for the exact fee.

If you explore in person at an AAA or AATA office, you usually receive your IDP the same day or the next business day. Some offices can hand it to you while you wait. This makes it possible to get an IDP a few days before your trip if you forgot to plan ahead.

If you use mail-in service, expect one to two weeks from the time your office receives your process. Mail delivery adds time on both ends, so send your materials early if you have a firm travel date.

Which Validity Period to Choose

You can buy a one-year or three-year IDP. The choice depends on how often you travel internationally and how far ahead you plan.

A one-year permit makes sense if you are taking a single trip and do not expect to drive abroad again soon. It is cheaper and you do not pay for coverage you will not use.

A three-year permit is better if you travel internationally more than once every few years or if you are unsure about your travel plans. The cost per year is lower, and you will have the permit on hand if an unexpected trip comes up. However, if your U.S. driver's license expires before your three-year IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid — it is only good as long as your U.S. license is valid.

What Happens If Your License Expires or Changes

Your IDP is only valid when paired with a current, valid U.S. driver's license. If your license expires, your IDP expires with it, even if the IDP itself has time remaining.

If you renew your license and receive a new license number, your old IDP is no longer valid. You must get a new IDP that matches your new license. The process is the same: visit AAA or AATA with your new license, a photo, and payment.

If your license is suspended or revoked, your IDP cannot be used. You cannot drive abroad on an IDP if you are not legally permitted to drive in the United States.

Countries That Recognize the IDP

Most countries recognize the IDP, but not all. Before you travel, check the specific country's requirements. Some nations require an IDP; others accept it but do not require it; and a few do not recognize it at all.

The U.S. State Department website and your destination country's embassy website both list driving requirements. Car rental companies can also tell you whether an IDP is needed for your destination.

Even in countries where an IDP is not required, car rental companies often ask for one because it speeds up the rental process and reduces disputes over your driving record. Having one is rarely a disadvantage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended?

No. Your IDP is only valid when paired with a valid U.S. driver's license. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP, and any IDP you already hold becomes invalid.

What if I lose my IDP while I'm traveling?

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are. They can issue a replacement or confirm your license status to local authorities. Always carry your U.S. license separately from your IDP so you have proof of your license even if the permit is lost.

Do I need an IDP if I'm only renting a car for one day?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Many countries do not legally require an IDP, but rental companies often ask for one anyway. Check with your rental company before you travel. If they do not require it, you can skip it, but having one can prevent delays at the rental counter.

Can I get an IDP online or by mail without visiting an office?

You cannot explore entirely by mail, but AAA and AATA both offer mail-in service where you mail in your documents and they mail back your IDP. You still need to gather your license, photo, and process form and send them in. Processing takes one to two weeks.

Is the IDP the same as an international license?

No. An international license is issued by some countries as a separate document that replaces your national license when you travel. The U.S. does not issue international licenses. The IDP is a translation document only and must be carried with your U.S. license.