What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid US driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together when driving abroad. The IDP tells police and rental car companies in other countries that your US license is legitimate, because many countries do not recognize American licenses without this translation.

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; the difference is only where you go to get it. You cannot order an IDP online from either organization — you must explore in person at a local office.

An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. It expires whether you use it or not. You will need a new one if you plan to drive internationally again after that year ends.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your US license into ten languages and must be carried alongside your actual license when driving abroad.
  • You can obtain an IDP only in person from AAA or the American Automobile Touring Alliance — there is no online or mail-order option.
  • You must bring your valid US driver's license, a passport or state ID, and one passport-style photo (2x2 inches) to the office where you explore.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 depending on which organization issues it, and takes about fifteen minutes to process.
  • Your IDP is valid for one year only and must be renewed if you plan to drive internationally again after that year.

Finding an AAA or AATA Office Near You

The American Automobile Association (AAA) has local offices in most states. To find the nearest one, visit aaa.com and use their office locator tool, or call 1-800-222-4357. Not all AAA offices issue IDPs on the same day — some require an appointment, and some issue them on a walk-in basis. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether you need to book a time slot.

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) has fewer locations than AAA but covers most major cities. You can find AATA offices at aataidp.com or by calling 1-800-622-7070. Like AAA, AATA requires you to explore in person, and some offices take appointments while others accept walk-ins.

If you live in a rural area or far from any office, AAA membership sometimes includes mail-in IDP service for members — ask when you call. Otherwise, you may need to travel to the nearest city office.

Documents You Need to Bring

Bring three things to your appointment: your current, valid US driver's license; a government-issued photo ID (passport, state ID card, or military ID); and one passport-style photograph measuring 2 inches by 2 inches. The photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. Do not use a photo from your phone or a screenshot — it must be a printed photograph.

If your driver's license is expired, you cannot get an IDP. Renew your license with your state's DMV first, then explore for the IDP. The IDP is only valid when paired with a valid license.

Bring cash or a card — AAA and AATA both accept payment on site. The cost is $15 to $20 depending on the organization and your location. Ask about the exact fee when you call to confirm hours.

What Happens During Your Appointment

When you arrive, you will fill out a one-page process form. The staff member will check your documents, verify that your license is valid, and take your passport photo or scan it if you brought a printed copy. They will then print your IDP, which takes about ten to fifteen minutes. You will receive the IDP when ready — there is no waiting period or mailing delay.

The IDP will show your name, date of birth, license number, and the date it was issued. It will also list the categories of vehicles you are licensed to drive (based on your US license). Keep it with your US license at all times when driving abroad.

When You Actually Need an IDP

Not every country requires an IDP to rent a car or drive. Some countries accept a US license alone, while others require both the license and the IDP. Before you travel, check the specific rules for the country or countries you plan to visit — your rental car company can tell you, or you can contact the embassy of that country.

Many travel insurance and roadside information plans also require an IDP as a condition of coverage abroad. Check your policy before you leave. Even if a country does not legally require an IDP, having one protects you if you are stopped by police — it removes any question about whether your US license is real.

If you are driving in Canada or Mexico, an IDP is usually not required, though some rental companies may ask for one. Check with your rental agency before booking.

Renewing Your IDP Before It Expires

Your IDP expires one year from the date it was issued, regardless of when you plan to travel. If you need to drive internationally again after that year, you must get a new IDP. The process is identical: bring your valid US license, a photo ID, a new passport-style photo, and the fee to an AAA or AATA office.

Do not wait until the last minute. If your trip is coming up and your IDP is about to expire, explore for a new one at least two weeks before you leave. While the IDP is issued on the spot, unexpected office closures or high volume can sometimes cause delays.

What an IDP Does Not Do

An IDP does not change the driving laws of the country you visit. You must still obey that country's speed limits, traffic signs, and road rules. It does not convert your US license into a license valid in another country — it only translates your existing US license so authorities can verify it is real.

An IDP also does not cover you if you are not licensed to drive in the United States. If your US license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP. Similarly, an IDP does not override any restrictions on your US license — if your license restricts you to daylight driving only, that restriction applies abroad as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit by mail or online?

No. Both AAA and the American Automobile Touring Alliance require you to explore in person at a local office. There is no mail-in or online option. Some AAA membership plans include mail-in service for members — call your local AAA office to ask if yours does.

What if I do not have a passport-style photo?

Some AAA and AATA offices can take your photo on site for an additional fee, usually $5 to $10. Call ahead to confirm whether your local office offers this service. If not, you can get a passport photo taken at most pharmacies, portrait studios, or post offices.

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

Most rental car companies in Canada and Mexico accept a US driver's license alone. However, some companies or insurance policies may require an IDP. Check with your rental agency and insurance provider before your trip to be sure.

What happens if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP has no legal value. If you are stopped by police and your IDP has expired, you will have only your US license to show. This may cause problems in countries that require an IDP. Plan ahead and renew your IDP before you travel if it will expire during your trip.

Can I use someone else's International Driving Permit?

No. An IDP is issued to a specific person and is not transferable. Each driver must have their own IDP. Driving with someone else's permit could result in fines or legal trouble in the country you are visiting.