What an International Driving Permit is and how to get one
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 — it works only alongside your actual license, and only in countries that recognize it. You obtain one through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them.
The process takes about 15 minutes in person at an AAA office or AATA location. You bring your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-sized photo (2x2 inches), a completed process form, and a fee. AAA charges $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit as of 2024, though prices may vary by location. AATA charges similar amounts. You walk out with the permit the same day.
You do not need an IDP to drive in most countries — many accept your U.S. license alone. An IDP is useful when you plan to rent a car abroad, because some rental companies require one, or when you are driving in countries where English is not widely spoken and police may not read English text on your license. It is also sometimes required by car insurance companies that cover you internationally.
Key Takeaways
- An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA and must be obtained in person with your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport photo, and a completed form.
- The permit costs $20 to $30 depending on whether you choose a one-year or three-year version, and you receive it the same day.
- An IDP is not required in most countries but is useful when renting a car abroad or driving in non-English-speaking regions.
- Your IDP is valid only while your U.S. driver's license remains valid — if your license expires or is suspended, the IDP becomes invalid.
- You can explore for an IDP only if you hold a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver's license; suspended, revoked, or restricted licenses do not may have access to.
Where to explore for an International Driving Permit
AAA has over 1,000 offices across the United States. If you are a member, you can visit any AAA office in your state or region. If you are not a member, you can still obtain an IDP at an AAA office, though some locations may charge a small additional fee or require you to join. Visit aaa.com and use the office locator to find the nearest location and confirm their hours.
AATA operates fewer locations but covers all 50 states. You can find AATA offices through their website at aataidp.com. Both organizations accept walk-ins, though calling ahead to confirm the office is open and has passport photos available can save time.
Some AAA offices also accept mail-in applications if you cannot visit in person. You mail your license, photo, completed form, and payment to the office, and they mail the permit back to you. This process takes one to two weeks. Check with your local AAA office to see if they offer this option.
Documents and information you need to bring
You must bring your valid, current U.S. driver's license. The license cannot be suspended, revoked, or restricted. If your license is expired, you cannot obtain an IDP until you renew it with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles.
You need one passport-sized photo, 2 inches by 2 inches, taken within the last six months. The photo must show your face clearly against a plain background. Many AAA and AATA offices have photo services on-site if you do not have one ready, though this adds time and a small fee.
You must complete an process form. AAA and AATA both provide these forms at their offices or online. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, license number, and signature. It takes about five minutes to fill out. You do not need to bring proof of citizenship, residency, or insurance — the IDP is based solely on your valid driver's license.
How long an International Driving Permit lasts
An IDP is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which version you purchase. The one-year permit costs $20 and the three-year permit costs $30 with AAA as of 2024. AATA pricing is similar. Choose based on how often you plan to drive internationally and how far in advance you are planning your trips.
Your IDP expires on the date printed on the document, regardless of when your U.S. driver's license expires. However, if your U.S. license expires or is suspended before your IDP expires, the IDP becomes invalid when ready. You cannot use an IDP without a valid U.S. license in your possession.
If your IDP expires while you are abroad, you cannot renew it outside the United States. You must return to the U.S. and visit an AAA or AATA office to obtain a new one. Plan ahead if you are taking a long trip and your IDP will expire during your travels.
What happens if your license is suspended or restricted
If your driver's license is suspended, you cannot obtain an IDP. The suspension must be lifted and your license must be fully valid and unrestricted before you can explore. If you already hold an IDP and your license is later suspended, the IDP becomes invalid and cannot be used for driving.
A restricted license — one that limits you to certain times of day, certain routes, or requires an ignition interlock device — also disqualifies you from obtaining an IDP. You must have a standard, unrestricted license. If you are unsure whether your license is restricted, contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or check your license document itself, which will note any restrictions.
Using your International Driving Permit abroad
Always carry both your U.S. driver's license and your IDP together. The IDP is not a standalone document and is worthless without your actual license. Police in foreign countries will ask to see both. If you lose either one, you cannot legally drive.
Some countries do not recognize the IDP at all. Before you travel, check the specific country's requirements through its embassy website or through your car rental company. A few nations require an International Driving Permit issued in your home country before you left, not one obtained in the U.S. — this is rare but worth confirming.
Your IDP does not override local traffic laws or age requirements. If a country requires drivers to be 25 years old and you are 23, the IDP does not change that rule. It also does not provide insurance coverage — you must purchase separate international driving insurance or confirm that your U.S. auto insurance or rental car insurance covers you in the countries where you plan to drive.
Cost and time comparison
| Option | Cost | Time to Receive | Where |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-year IDP (in person) | $20 | Same day | AAA or AATA office |
| Three-year IDP (in person) | $30 | Same day | AAA or AATA office |
| IDP by mail | $20–$30 | 1–2 weeks | AAA office (select locations) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driving Permit 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, so it does not hurt to have one. Check with your rental company before you travel.
Can I renew my IDP by mail or online?
No. You must visit an AAA or AATA office in person to obtain or renew an IDP. There is no online or mail renewal option, though some offices accept initial mail-in applications. You will need to return to an office to renew when your permit expires.
What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?
You cannot legally drive without it if you are in a country that requires it. Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in that country — they may be able to issue a temporary replacement or advise you on local options. When you return to the U.S., you can obtain a new IDP from AAA or AATA.
Does an International Driving Permit work in every country?
No. Some countries do not recognize the IDP or require additional documents like a national driving permit from your home country. Always check the specific country's requirements through its embassy website or your car rental company before you travel.
Can I get an International Driving Permit if my license is expired?
No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and current. Renew your license with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles first, then visit AAA or AATA to obtain the IDP.