Georgia does not issue its own International Driving Permits

Georgia's Department of Driver Services does not produce International Driving Permits (IDPs). If you hold a valid Georgia driver's license and need an IDP to drive in another country, you must obtain it from an authorized issuing organization within the United States, not from the state itself.

The IDP is a separate document from your Georgia license — it is a translation booklet that works alongside your actual license. You cannot get one directly from the DMV. Instead, you work with one of two national organizations that are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs to U.S. citizens.

Key Takeaways

  • Georgia's Department of Driver Services does not issue IDPs; you must obtain one from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Touring Association (ATA).
  • You must have a valid, unexpired Georgia driver's license before you can receive an IDP.
  • The IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which organization issues it, and it must be renewed separately from your Georgia license.
  • Both AAA and ATA require you to appear in person with your license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photograph.
  • The IDP is not a replacement for your Georgia license and must be carried together with it when driving internationally.

Where to get an IDP in Georgia: AAA or ATA

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the most widely available option in Georgia. AAA has local offices throughout the state, and membership is not required to obtain an IDP through them. You can visit any AAA office in Georgia, bring your documents, and receive your IDP on the same day in most cases.

The American Touring Association (ATA) is the second authorized issuer. ATA has fewer physical locations than AAA but operates nationwide. If you do not have an AAA office near you or prefer to work with ATA, you can contact them directly to find an issuing location or to learn about mail-in options.

Both organizations charge a fee for the IDP. AAA's fee is typically lower than ATA's, though prices can vary by location. Neither organization's fee is set by Georgia state law — each organization sets its own rates. Contact your local AAA office or ATA directly for current pricing.

Documents you need to bring in person

You must appear in person at an AAA or ATA office to receive an IDP. You cannot obtain one by mail or online. Bring the following documents:

  • Your valid, unexpired Georgia driver's license (required).
  • A completed IDP process form (AAA and ATA provide these; you can often fill one out before you arrive).
  • One passport-style photograph, typically 2 by 2 inches (required by both organizations).
  • A second form of identification, such as a passport, state ID card, or military ID (some offices require this; call ahead to confirm).

Your Georgia license must not be expired. If your license has expired, you must renew it through the Georgia Department of Driver Services before you can obtain an IDP. The IDP cannot be issued on an expired license.

How long an IDP is valid and when to renew it

An IDP issued by AAA is valid for one year from the date of issue. An IDP issued by ATA is valid for three years. Neither organization's IDP is tied to your Georgia license renewal — they are separate documents with separate expiration dates.

You must renew your IDP directly with the organization that issued it. If AAA issued your IDP and it is about to expire, you return to AAA with a new process form, a new photograph, and your current Georgia license. The same process applies if ATA issued it.

If your Georgia license expires while your IDP is still valid, your IDP becomes useless for international driving. You must have both documents current and valid at the same time. When you renew your Georgia license, plan ahead to renew your IDP as well if it will expire soon after.

Using your IDP when you travel internationally

The IDP is not a license itself — it is a translation document. You must carry both your Georgia driver's license and your IDP together when you drive in another country. Some countries recognize the IDP; others do not. Before you travel, research the specific country's requirements. Many countries accept an IDP, but some require an official translation of your license from a certified translator, or they do not recognize either document and require you to obtain a local permit.

The IDP translates your license information into multiple languages (typically English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Russian). It is meant to help police and rental car companies understand your license status if you are stopped or need to rent a vehicle.

The IDP does not change the rules of the road or your driving privileges. If you are not permitted to drive in a country because of your age, the type of vehicle, or local law, the IDP does not override that. It is purely a translation aid.

What to do if your Georgia license is expired or suspended

You cannot obtain an IDP if your Georgia driver's license is expired, suspended, or revoked. If your license is not currently valid, you must restore it through the Georgia Department of Driver Services before you can explore for an IDP.

If your license is suspended, you must complete the reinstatement process, which may include paying a reinstatement fee, completing a defensive driving course, or meeting other requirements depending on why it was suspended. Contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services at 470-378-7000 or visit the DMV website to find out what you need to do.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IDP by mail from Georgia?

No. Both AAA and ATA require you to appear in person at one of their offices. You must bring your Georgia license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photograph. Some AAA locations may offer mail-in renewal if you already hold an IDP, but the first IDP must be obtained in person.

Do I need to be a AAA member to get an IDP from them?

No. AAA membership is not required. You can walk into any AAA office in Georgia without membership and request an IDP. You will pay the IDP fee, but you do not have to join AAA or pay a membership fee.

What countries accept the Georgia IDP?

Many countries accept an IDP, but not all. Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit, or check the rental car company's website. Some countries require an official translation instead, and some do not recognize either document. The IDP is not a may provide that you can drive in any particular country.

If my Georgia license expires, does my IDP expire too?

No, but your IDP becomes invalid for driving purposes. You must carry both documents together and both must be current. If your Georgia license expires, you cannot legally drive internationally even if your IDP is still valid. Renew your Georgia license through the DMV, and renew your IDP separately with AAA or ATA.

Can I get an IDP if I have a learner's permit instead of a full license?

No. You must have a valid, full Georgia driver's license. A learner's permit is not sufficient. Once you pass your driving test and receive your full license, you can then obtain an IDP.