What Florida requires for an International Driving Permit

Florida does not issue International Driving Permits (IDPs). You must obtain your IDP through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) before you travel. Both organizations are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs, and either one is valid in Florida and abroad.

An IDP is a translation document that works alongside your valid Florida driver's license — it does not replace it. You must carry both documents when driving internationally. The IDP translates your license information into ten languages and is recognized in over 150 countries that are signatories to the 1926 International Convention on Motor Vehicle Traffic.

You cannot obtain an IDP at any Florida DMV office, county tax collector, or state licensing facility. You must go directly to AAA or AATA, and you must do this in person at a physical location.

Key Takeaways

  • Florida's DMV does not issue International Driving Permits; only AAA and AATA can issue them in the United States.
  • You must have a valid Florida driver's license in hand before you can obtain an IDP from either organization.
  • An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be renewed annually if you continue to drive internationally.
  • AAA charges a processing fee (typically $15 to $20) and AATA charges a separate fee; both require you to explore in person with your license and a passport-style photo.
  • You must carry both your Florida license and your IDP together when driving in foreign countries; the IDP alone is not a valid driving credential.

Where to explore for an IDP in Florida

AAA has the most locations across Florida and is usually the fastest route. You can find AAA offices in most major cities and many smaller towns. Visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool to find the nearest branch. Walk-in service is available at most locations, though some offices accept appointments.

AATA has fewer locations than AAA but operates in Florida as well. You can search for AATA member organizations on their website. AATA issues IDPs through affiliated travel agencies and automobile clubs, so your options depend on which member organizations operate near you.

Both organizations require you to appear in person. You cannot mail in an process or use an online service to obtain an IDP. Bring your valid Florida driver's license, one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and payment for the processing fee.

Documents and fees you need

Bring your current, valid Florida driver's license. It must not be expired. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot obtain an IDP until you renew or restore your Florida license first.

You will need one passport-style photograph, 2 inches by 2 inches. Most AAA and AATA offices can take this photo on-site for an additional fee if you do not have one. The photo must be recent (taken within the last six months) and show your face clearly against a plain background.

Bring a valid form of payment. AAA typically charges $15 to $20 for an IDP. AATA's fee varies by location and affiliated organization. Neither organization accepts all payment methods at every location, so call ahead or check their website to confirm what they accept.

You do not need your passport to obtain an IDP, though you will need your passport to travel internationally. The IDP is a separate document from your passport.

How long an IDP is valid and when to renew

An International Driving Permit issued in the United States is valid for one year from the date of issue. After one year, it expires and is no longer recognized in foreign countries. If you plan to drive internationally again after your IDP expires, you must obtain a new one.

You cannot renew an IDP by mail or online. You must return to an AAA or AATA office in person with your expired IDP, your current Florida driver's license, a new passport-style photo, and payment for the fee. The process is the same as obtaining your first IDP.

Some travelers obtain a second IDP before their first one expires, so they have a valid permit for the entire duration of their trip if the trip spans the one-year mark. This is optional but can prevent the need to obtain a new IDP while traveling.

What to do if you are traveling soon

If you need an IDP within the next few days, visit an AAA office in person. Most locations can issue an IDP the same day or within 24 hours. Call the office first to confirm their processing time and whether they have passport photos available.

Do not wait until the day before you travel. If the AAA or AATA office is closed or busy, you may not be able to obtain your IDP in time. Plan to visit at least three to five business days before your departure date.

If you are leaving Florida and will not return before your trip, you can obtain an IDP at an AAA or AATA office in another state. The IDP is issued by the U.S. State Department through these organizations, so it is valid regardless of which state you obtain it in. Bring the same documents: your valid driver's license, a passport-style photo, and payment.

Driving with an IDP in Florida and abroad

You do not need an IDP to drive in Florida. Your Florida driver's license is sufficient for driving within the United States. An IDP is only necessary when you are driving in a foreign country.

When you are driving internationally, carry both your Florida driver's license and your IDP at all times. Some countries require both documents; others accept the IDP alone. Police or rental car companies may ask to see both. If you lose your IDP while traveling, you can contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in that country for guidance, though they cannot issue a replacement.

An IDP does not change the driving laws or insurance requirements of the country you are visiting. You are still subject to that country's traffic laws, speed limits, and vehicle regulations. Some countries require an International Certificate of Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance (a "green card") in addition to your IDP and license. Check the specific requirements of each country before you travel.

If your Florida license is expired or suspended

You cannot obtain an IDP if your Florida driver's license is expired, suspended, or revoked. You must renew or restore your license first through the Florida DMV. Once your license is valid again, you can then visit AAA or AATA to obtain your IDP.

If your license is suspended due to unpaid traffic fines or other violations, you must resolve the suspension with the Florida DMV before proceeding. Contact your local county tax collector's office or the Florida DMV website to find out what steps are required to restore your driving privileges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit at a Florida DMV office?

No. Florida's DMV does not issue International Driving Permits. You must visit an AAA or AATA office in person. AAA has the most locations across Florida and is usually the fastest option.

Do I need a passport to get an IDP?

No. You need your valid Florida driver's license, a passport-style photo, and payment. You will need your passport to travel internationally, but not to obtain the IDP itself.

How long does it take to get an IDP?

Most AAA offices issue an IDP the same day or within 24 hours. AATA processing times vary by location. Call ahead to confirm. Plan to visit at least three to five business days before your trip to avoid delays.

What if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP is no longer valid in foreign countries. You cannot renew it while traveling. Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in that country for guidance, though they cannot issue a replacement. Plan ahead and obtain a new IDP before your current one expires if your trip will be longer than one year.

Is an IDP the same as an International Driver's License?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works with your Florida license. There is no such thing as an "International Driver's License" issued by the U.S. government. Some countries issue their own licenses, but the IDP is the standard document recognized internationally for U.S. drivers.