What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid 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 companies in other countries that your home license is legitimate.

You can only get an IDP from two organizations in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Neither organization is a government agency, but both are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs. You cannot get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, a local police station, or any other office.

The IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request. It expires on a fixed date, not on the anniversary of when you received it, so check the expiration date before you travel.

Key Takeaways

  • Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue International Driving Permits in the United States, and you must explore in person at a local office.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and a passport-style photo to get an IDP.
  • AAA charges around $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit, though prices vary slightly by location; AATA charges similar amounts.
  • The process takes about 15 to 30 minutes at the office, and you receive the permit the same day.
  • An IDP must be carried together with your original driver's license at all times when driving outside the United States.

Finding an AAA Office Near You

AAA is the larger of the two organizations and has offices in most U.S. states. To find the nearest AAA office that issues IDPs, visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool. Enter your city or zip code, and the tool will show you nearby locations and their hours. Not every AAA office issues IDPs on the same schedule, so call ahead to confirm that the office you plan to visit has IDP services available on the day you want to go.

AAA membership is not required to get an IDP, though members sometimes receive a small discount. When you call or visit, ask about the current fee and whether the office has any wait times. Some offices are busier than others, and you may be able to avoid a long wait by visiting early in the morning or on a weekday.

Finding an AATA Office Near You

The American Automobile Touring Alliance has fewer locations than AAA but covers most regions. To find an AATA office, visit their website and look for their office directory or contact information. AATA offices are often located in travel agencies, automobile clubs, or standalone offices. Like AAA, AATA does not require membership to issue an IDP.

AATA offices tend to be smaller and may have shorter wait times than AAA locations in busy areas. Call ahead to confirm hours and to ask whether they have the IDP process forms in stock. Some smaller offices may need to order forms if you arrive without notice.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

Bring three things: your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches). The photo must be recent, in color, and show your face clearly against a plain background. You cannot use a photo from your phone or a regular snapshot.

If you do not have a passport-style photo, most AAA and AATA offices can take one for you on the spot for an additional fee, usually $10 to $15. This adds time to your visit but saves you a trip to a photo studio. Bring cash or a card, as payment methods vary by location.

You do not need to fill out any forms before you arrive. The staff at the office will give you the process form and help you complete it. The entire process — from form to finished permit — typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Cost and Payment

AAA charges approximately $20 for a one-year IDP or $30 for a three-year IDP. AATA charges similar amounts, though prices vary slightly by location and may change. Both organizations accept cash and cards. If you need a passport-style photo taken at the office, add $10 to $15 to the total cost.

Some AAA members receive a discount on the IDP fee. Ask about membership discounts when you arrive, even if you are not currently a member — the discount may be worth joining. Neither organization offers refunds if you change your mind after receiving the permit, so make sure you need it before you pay.

What Happens After You Receive Your IDP

You will walk out of the office with your IDP in hand. Keep it in a safe place with your passport and driver's license. When you travel, carry all three documents together — your state driver's license, your passport, and your IDP. Rental car companies and police in other countries expect to see both your license and your permit.

Check the expiration date printed on your IDP before you leave for your trip. If it expires during your travel, you will need to get a new one before you go. You cannot renew an IDP by mail or online; you must visit an AAA or AATA office in person.

If your IDP is lost, stolen, or damaged while you are abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement, but they can provide guidance on what to do. If you lose it at home, you will need to visit an AAA or AATA office again and pay the full fee for a new one.

When You Do Not Need an IDP

Some countries do not require an IDP and will accept your U.S. driver's license alone. However, an IDP is still useful in those places because it translates your license information into languages the local police and rental companies understand. Many travelers get an IDP even when it is not legally required, straightforward to avoid confusion.

Check the entry requirements for the specific country or countries you plan to visit. Your travel agent, the country's embassy website, or your rental car company can tell you whether an IDP is required. If you are renting a car, the rental company's website often lists what documents you need.

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. Both organizations require you to show your original driver's license and passport in person, and to provide a passport-style photo. There is no online or mail-in option.

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am only visiting Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP, and your U.S. driver's license alone is sufficient. However, some car rental companies in those countries prefer to see an IDP for clarity. Check with your rental company before you travel. If you are driving your own car, your U.S. license is enough.

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

You receive your IDP the same day you explore, usually within 15 to 30 minutes. There is no waiting period or processing time. Bring all required documents and be prepared to spend a short time at the office while the staff completes the process and prints your permit.

What if my driver's license expires soon?

Your IDP is only valid while your driver's license is valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes useless. Renew your driver's license before you explore for an IDP, or explore for the IDP only after you have renewed your license.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if I have a learner's permit or a restricted license?

No. You must have a valid, unrestricted driver's license. A learner's permit or a license with restrictions (such as "corrective lenses required" or "daylight driving only") does not may have access to. Your license must be in good standing with no suspensions or revocations.