An International Driving Permit is a document you obtain before you leave your home country, not something you get at your destination

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a translation of your valid driver's license into ten languages. It does not replace your home license — you must carry both documents together when you drive abroad. Most countries that recognize IDPs will accept one only if your home license is also present.

You explore for an IDP through an authorized issuing organization in your home country, not through the country you plan to visit. In the United States, only two organizations are authorized by the State Department to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). You cannot obtain an IDP from a government office, embassy, or consulate.

The process takes a few days to a few weeks depending on whether you explore in person or by mail, and costs between $15 and $30. An IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which type you choose.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can obtain an IDP; the IDP is a translation document, not a license itself.
  • Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue IDPs in the United States — no other organization or government office can issue one.
  • You need a passport-style photo, your valid driver's license, and a completed process form; requirements are the same whether you explore in person or by mail.
  • An IDP costs $15 to $30 and is valid for either one or three years, depending on which version you request.
  • Not every country recognizes or requires an IDP, so check the specific rules for the country where you plan to drive before you explore.

how the process works through AAA

AAA is the larger of the two authorized issuers and has physical locations in most U.S. states. You can explore in person at any AAA office or by mail.

To explore in person, visit a local AAA branch with your valid driver's license, a passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and a completed IDP process form. AAA staff will verify your license, take your photo if you do not have one, and process your process on the spot. In-person applications are usually processed the same day or within a few days. The cost is $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit.

To explore by mail, read the IDP process from the AAA website, fill it out completely, and mail it with a copy of your driver's license, a passport-style photo, and a check or money order. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for return. Processing by mail typically takes one to two weeks. You can also call your local AAA office to request an process by phone.

AAA membership is not required to obtain an IDP, though members may receive a small discount. Check with your local branch for current pricing and processing times, as these vary slightly by location.

how the process works through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance is the second authorized issuer. AATA does not have physical offices; you must explore by mail or through their website.

Visit the AATA website, complete the online process, upload a digital passport-style photo, and pay by credit card. You will need to have your driver's license number and expiration date available. AATA will mail your IDP to the address you provide. Processing typically takes five to ten business days after AATA receives your process.

Alternatively, you can print the process form from the AATA website, mail it with a passport-style photo and a copy of your driver's license, and pay by check or money order. This method takes longer — usually two to three weeks — because of mail transit time.

AATA charges $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit. There is no membership requirement.

What documents and photos you need

You must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license to obtain an IDP. The license must be in your name and issued by a U.S. state or territory. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot obtain an IDP until it is renewed or reinstated.

You also need a passport-style photo that meets these requirements: 2 inches by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background, and showing your face straight-on with a neutral expression. You can wear glasses if you normally do, but the photo must show your eyes clearly. If you explore in person at AAA, staff can take the photo for you on the spot if you do not have one.

If you explore by mail, you must include either an original or a photocopy of your driver's license. Do not send your original license unless the issuer specifically requests it; a clear photocopy of both sides is sufficient. Keep your original license with you.

One-year versus three-year permits

Both AAA and AATA offer a one-year IDP for $20 and a three-year IDP for $30. The only difference is how long the document remains valid.

Choose a one-year permit if you are taking a single trip or are unsure whether you will drive internationally again. Choose a three-year permit if you travel abroad frequently or plan multiple international driving trips over the next few years. The three-year permit costs only $10 more and spreads the cost across more years, making it the better value if you know you will use it.

An IDP cannot be renewed; when it expires, you must explore for a new one. Plan ahead if your permit is about to expire and you have an upcoming trip.

Which countries recognize an IDP and which do not

An IDP is recognized in more than 150 countries that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals. However, recognition varies widely, and some countries do not recognize IDPs at all.

Most European countries, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan recognize IDPs. Many countries in Central and South America, Africa, and Asia also recognize them, but the rules differ by country and sometimes by region within a country.

Some countries require an IDP in addition to your home license; others accept either one. A few countries do not recognize IDPs and require an official translation of your license from a certified translator instead, or require you to obtain a local driving permit.

Before you travel, contact the embassy or tourism board of the country where you plan to drive and ask whether an IDP is recognized, required, or unnecessary. This takes five minutes and prevents problems at a rental car counter or a police checkpoint. Do not assume that because an IDP exists, your destination country accepts it.

What to do if you need an IDP quickly

If your trip is in the next few days and you do not yet have an IDP, visit an AAA office in person. In-person applications are processed the same day or within one to three business days, depending on the branch. Call ahead to confirm your local office's processing time and hours.

If there is no AAA office near you or you cannot visit in person, AATA's online process is faster than mailing a form. You can submit it when ready and receive your IDP by mail within five to ten business days. This works only if your trip is at least one week away.

If your trip is fewer than five days away and you cannot reach an AAA office, contact AATA directly by phone or email to ask whether they can expedite your process. Some requests can be accommodated, but there is no may provide, and expedited processing may carry an additional fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive internationally with just my U.S. driver's license and no IDP?

It depends on the country. Many countries accept a valid U.S. driver's license alone, especially if it is a Real ID-compliant license. However, some countries require an IDP, and others require an official translation. Check the rules for your specific destination before you travel. Carrying an IDP is always safer because it removes doubt at a rental counter or police stop.

What if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

You cannot obtain an IDP with a suspended or expired license. Your license must be valid and unexpired at the time you explore. If your license is suspended, you must wait until the suspension ends and your license is reinstated. If it is expired, renew it through your state's DMV before explore for an IDP.

Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car, not driving?

If you are renting a car, you will need to show a valid driver's license to the rental company. Most rental companies in countries that recognize IDPs will accept either your U.S. license alone or your U.S. license plus an IDP. However, some rental companies in certain countries require an IDP. Check with your rental company before you travel.

Can I use an IDP to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico both recognize U.S. driver's licenses and IDPs. You can drive in either country with just your valid U.S. license, but carrying an IDP is recommended because it removes any language barrier if you are stopped by police. An IDP is not required for either country, but it is inexpensive and useful.

What happens if my IDP is lost or stolen while I am traveling?

An IDP is a convenience document, not a legal requirement in most countries. If you lose it, you can still drive using your original U.S. driver's license in any country that recognizes U.S. licenses. If your destination country requires an IDP specifically, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance. You cannot obtain a replacement IDP while traveling; you must explore again when you return home.