How much you'll pay for an International Driving Permit

An International Driving Permit (IDP) costs between $15 and $30 in the United States, depending on which organization issues it and how long you want it to last. The American Automobile Association (AAA) charges $20 for a one-year permit and $40 for a three-year permit. The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) charges $15 for a one-year permit and $30 for a three-year permit. Both are legitimate, recognized issuers.

The permit itself is not expensive, but getting one requires a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photo, and time to visit an issuing office in person. You cannot order an IDP by mail or online — you must explore face-to-face. Some AAA locations can issue one the same day; others require an appointment or have a wait. AATA locations vary by region.

If you are traveling soon and cannot reach an issuing office, you may pay extra for expedited service at some locations, though this is not may provide. Plan to visit at least one week before your trip.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit costs $15 to $40 depending on the issuer and how long you want it to last, with one-year permits cheaper than three-year ones.
  • You must explore in person at an AAA or AATA office with a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photo, and proof of your address.
  • The permit is not valid on its own — you must carry it together with your actual U.S. driver's license when driving abroad.
  • An IDP is recognized in over 150 countries but does not replace your home country's license requirements or local driving laws.

What you need to bring to get an IDP

To obtain an International Driving Permit, bring your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-style photo (usually 2x2 inches), and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Some offices accept a second form of ID instead.

You do not need to renew your U.S. license to get an IDP, and you do not need to pass any test. The IDP is straightforward a translation of your existing license into multiple languages so that police and rental agencies in other countries can read it.

Bring cash or a card — most AAA and AATA offices accept both, but call ahead to confirm. Some smaller offices may not have card readers.

AAA versus AATA: which issuer to choose

Both the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue International Driving Permits. They are equally valid abroad. The main difference is location and price.

AAA has more locations nationwide, especially in urban and suburban areas. If you are a AAA member, you may receive a small discount at some locations, though this varies. AAA charges $20 for a one-year permit and $40 for a three-year permit.

AATA has fewer locations but is often found in smaller towns and rural areas. AATA charges $15 for a one-year permit and $30 for a three-year permit. To find an AATA office near you, visit their website or call their main office for a referral. Neither organization requires membership to issue an IDP.

How long an IDP is valid and when to renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which term you purchase. The expiration date is printed on the permit itself. Your IDP expires on that date regardless of whether your U.S. driver's license expires — they are separate documents with separate lifespans.

If your U.S. driver's license expires before your IDP does, your IDP becomes invalid. You cannot use an expired U.S. license to drive anywhere, even with a valid IDP. If your U.S. license is still valid but your IDP has expired, you will need to obtain a new IDP before traveling internationally.

Plan to renew your IDP at least two weeks before your trip. If you are a frequent international traveler, buying the three-year permit may save you money and trips to the issuing office.

IDP cost compared to other countries' requirements

The cost of an International Driving Permit in the United States is lower than in many other countries. In the United Kingdom, an IDP costs roughly £5.50 (about $7 USD), but the process is handled by the DVLA and takes longer. In Canada, an IDP costs roughly $20 CAD (about $15 USD) and is issued by the Canadian Automobile Association.

Some countries do not issue IDPs at all and instead require visitors to obtain an international driving license through a different process or to carry a certified translation of their home license. This is why the IDP is useful — it is recognized across many countries without requiring you to get separate documents for each one.

If you are moving to another country or planning to stay longer than a few months, an IDP may not be sufficient. Many countries require you to convert your U.S. license to a local license or to take a local driving test. The IDP is designed for short-term travel, not relocation.

What an IDP does and does not cover

An International Driving Permit is a translation document. It translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages so that police officers, rental agencies, and insurance companies in other countries can understand what your license says. It does not grant you permission to drive that you did not already have.

An IDP does not replace your U.S. driver's license — you must carry both documents together when driving abroad. It does not override local traffic laws or age restrictions in the country you are visiting. If a country requires drivers to be 25 years old and you are 23, an IDP will not change that rule. If a country bans certain types of vehicles or requires an additional local test, an IDP does not exempt you.

An IDP also does not provide insurance. Your personal auto insurance policy may or may not cover you abroad — you must check with your insurance company before you travel. Many rental agencies require an IDP as proof that your license is legitimate, but the IDP itself does not insure the rental vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. You must explore in person at an AAA or AATA office. You cannot order an IDP online, by phone, or by mail. Some offices can issue one the same day, but you must visit the office with your documents and photo.

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

It depends on the country and the rental agency. Some agencies in Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP for short rentals. Others require one as proof of license validity. Call the rental agency before your trip to ask. If you are unsure, getting an IDP is inexpensive and removes the risk of being denied a rental.

What happens if my IDP expires while I'm traveling?

You cannot legally drive with an expired IDP. If your permit expires during your trip, you should not drive. Plan your travel dates so that your IDP does not expire while you are abroad, or purchase a three-year permit if you travel frequently.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation of your existing U.S. license. An international license is a separate document issued by some countries that allows you to drive in multiple countries. The U.S. does not issue international licenses — only IDPs.

Can I use an IDP to drive in all countries?

An IDP is recognized in over 150 countries that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 Geneva Conventions on Road Signs and Signals. However, some countries have additional requirements or restrictions. Before traveling, check the embassy website of the country you are visiting to confirm what documents you need to drive there.