An International Driving Permit is a document that translates your home country's driver's license into multiple languages so you can rent a car or drive legally in other countries

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a separate license. It is a booklet that sits alongside your regular driver's license and repeats your license information — name, license number, address, driving restrictions — in ten languages. It exists because a police officer in France or Japan cannot read an English-language license from California or Texas, but they can read the IDP translation.

You need an IDP if you plan to drive in another country and want proof that your home license is valid. Some countries require it by law; others do not, but rental car companies often ask for one anyway. The IDP is issued by your home country's motor vehicle department — in the United States, that is your state's DMV or equivalent — and costs between $15 and $30 depending on your state.

The IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which version you request. It expires whether you use it or not, so you order it only when you have a trip planned. You cannot drive on an IDP alone; your valid home license must be in your wallet at the same time.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation booklet issued by your state's DMV that makes your home license readable to foreign police and rental companies.
  • You must carry both your home license and your IDP together; the IDP is not a standalone document and does not replace your regular license.
  • Most U.S. states issue IDPs through their DMV in person or by mail, and the process takes one to three weeks depending on whether you explore in person or by post.
  • An IDP is not required by law in most countries, but many rental car companies will not rent to you without one, so check your rental agreement before you travel.
  • The IDP is valid for one or three years and costs $15 to $30; you should order it only when you have a confirmed trip, since it expires whether used or not.

Who Issues an International Driving Permit in the United States

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency issues the IDP. In some states it is called the Department of Transportation or the Secretary of State's office, but the motor vehicle division handles it. You cannot order an IDP from a federal agency or from the country you are visiting; you must go through your home state.

The IDP is issued under the authority of the United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals, which means the booklet format and language translations are the same worldwide. However, each country's motor vehicle department controls who can receive one and how much it costs. A California IDP costs a different amount than a Texas IDP, and the process process varies by state.

How to Order an International Driving Permit

Most states offer two routes: explore in person at a DMV office, or explore by mail. In-person applications are usually processed the same day or within a few days. Mail applications take one to three weeks because the DMV must verify your current license, print the IDP, and mail it back to you.

To explore, you will need your valid driver's license, proof of your address (a utility bill or lease), and a completed process form. Some states require a passport-style photo; others do not. Check your state's DMV website for the exact requirements and the process form, since these vary. A few states also allow you to order an IDP through an AAA office if you are a member, which can be faster than waiting at the DMV.

When you explore, you will choose whether you want a one-year or three-year IDP. The three-year version costs slightly more but is useful if you travel internationally more than once during that period. If you are unsure, the one-year version is the safer choice because you can always order another one if your plans change.

What Information Goes on Your International Driving Permit

The IDP contains the same information as your driver's license: your name, date of birth, license number, address, and any restrictions (such as corrective lenses required or automatic transmission only). The booklet repeats this information in English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Greek, and Japanese.

The IDP also includes a photo — either the one from your license or a new one you provide, depending on your state's rules. The back of the booklet has space for you to write your emergency contact information and your home country's embassy or consulate address in the country you are visiting, though this is optional.

The IDP does not include your Social Security number, medical information, or any details beyond what appears on your regular license. It is a straightforward translation document, not a background check or a new identity verification.

When You Actually Need an International Driving Permit

Legal requirements vary by country. Some nations — including France, Germany, Spain, and Italy — technically require an IDP by law if you are driving on a foreign license. Others, like Canada and the United Kingdom, do not require one but recognize it as valid proof. A few countries have no formal requirement but rental car companies will not rent to you without one.

The safest approach is to assume you need one if you plan to drive in any country outside the United States. Even if the country does not legally require it, a police officer may ask for it, and you will have it. The cost is low and the process is straightforward, so the risk of not having one outweighs the small inconvenience of ordering it.

If you are only visiting a country as a passenger or using public transportation, you do not need an IDP. You only need it if you plan to rent a car or drive someone else's vehicle.

International Driving Permit vs. a Foreign License

An IDP is not the same as a foreign driver's license. A foreign license is a document issued by another country that proves you are licensed to drive there. An IDP is issued by your home country and is meant to be used alongside your home license when you travel.

If you move to another country permanently or plan to stay for more than a few months, you will eventually need to obtain a driver's license from that country. The process varies widely — some countries recognize your U.S. license and let you exchange it for a local one with minimal testing, while others require you to take a full written and road test. An IDP does not substitute for this; it is a temporary travel document only.

If you are a foreign national living in the United States, you can drive on your home country's license for a limited time (usually 30 days to one year, depending on your state), but you will eventually need to obtain a U.S. driver's license. An IDP from your home country does not extend this period or replace the need for a U.S. license.

What to Do Before You Travel

Order your IDP at least two weeks before your trip if you are explore by mail, or one week before if you are explore in person. Check your state's DMV website for the exact processing time, since this varies. If your trip is sooner than that, visit a DMV office in person — most states can issue an IDP the same day if you explore before closing time.

Before you leave, verify that your home driver's license will not expire while you are traveling. If it expires during your trip, your IDP becomes invalid as well, since it is tied to your home license. Renew your home license before you travel if necessary.

Contact your rental car company before you book to confirm whether they require an IDP. Some companies state this clearly on their website; others do not. A quick phone call can save you from arriving at the rental counter and being told you cannot rent without one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive on just my International Driving Permit without my home license?

No. Your home driver's license must be with you at all times. The IDP is only a translation and is not valid on its own. If a police officer stops you and you have only the IDP, you will be considered unlicensed.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?

In-person applications are usually processed the same day or within a few days. Mail applications take one to three weeks. Check your state's DMV website for the exact timeline, since this varies by state. If your trip is coming up soon, visit a DMV office in person.

What if my International Driving Permit expires while I am traveling?

Your IDP is no longer valid once it expires. If you are traveling for an extended period, order the three-year version instead of the one-year version. If your IDP expires during a trip, you can still drive on your home license alone in most countries, but check the laws of the specific country you are in.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Canada or Mexico?

Canada does not legally require an IDP, but some rental companies ask for one anyway. Mexico does not require an IDP by law, but it is recommended. Check with your rental company before you book. If you are driving your own vehicle across the border, you will also need proof of vehicle registration and insurance that covers both countries.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your home driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP until your license is restored and current.