What an International Driving Permit is and whether you need one in New York
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. New York does not issue IDPs itself. Instead, you obtain one through one of two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department: the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA).
You need an IDP only if you plan to drive in a foreign country. If you are driving within the United States, your New York driver's license is sufficient. Many countries do not require an IDP, but some rental car companies and border officials will accept one as proof that your U.S. license is valid. The IDP is useful primarily in countries where English is not widely spoken or where officials are unfamiliar with U.S. license formats.
The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue (or three years if you obtain the three-year version through AAA). It expires on a fixed date regardless of when you use it, so timing matters if you are planning a specific trip.
Key Takeaways
- You must obtain an IDP through AAA or AATA in New York; the DMV does not issue them.
- You need a valid New York driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-style photo, and payment before you can receive an IDP.
- AAA issues IDPs in person at local branches or by mail; AATA issues them by mail only.
- An IDP is valid for one year (or three years through AAA) and must be carried with your physical New York license when driving abroad.
- The cost varies by organization and method: AAA charges roughly $20 for a one-year permit in person, and AATA charges a similar amount by mail.
Getting an IDP through AAA in New York
The American Automobile Association is the most accessible route for New York residents. AAA has local branches throughout the state where you can explore in person and receive your IDP the same day, or you can explore by mail and receive it within one to two weeks.
To explore in person at an AAA branch, bring your valid New York driver's license, a completed AAA International Driving Permit process (form available at the branch or online), one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), and payment. AAA accepts cash, check, and card. The one-year IDP costs approximately $20; the three-year IDP costs approximately $30. You do not need to be an AAA member to obtain an IDP, though members may receive a small discount.
To explore by mail, read the process form from the AAA website, complete it, and mail it with a copy of your driver's license, one passport-style photo, and a check or money order to your nearest AAA branch. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for return. Processing takes one to two weeks after AAA receives your packet.
Getting an IDP through AATA in New York
The American Automobile Touring Alliance processes IDP requests by mail only; there are no walk-in locations. AATA is a valid alternative if you prefer not to visit an AAA branch or do not have one nearby.
To explore through AATA, read the International Driving Permit process from the AATA website (aata.com), complete it, and mail it with your valid New York driver's license (a photocopy is acceptable), one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), and a check or money order made payable to AATA. The one-year IDP costs approximately $20. Mail your packet to the AATA address listed on their website. Processing typically takes two to three weeks.
AATA does not offer a three-year permit option, only the standard one-year version. If you need your IDP quickly, AAA's in-person service is faster.
Documents and photos you need before you explore
You must have a valid New York driver's license before you can obtain an IDP. The license does not need to be new; it can be within any point of its validity period. If your license is expired, you must renew it at the DMV first.
You will need one passport-style photograph, 2 by 2 inches. This is the same size used for U.S. passports. You can obtain passport photos at most drugstores (CVS, Walgreens), UPS stores, or professional photography studios. The photo must show your face clearly, be in color or black and white, and have a plain background. Do not use a photo from your phone or a digital printout unless it meets these specifications.
You will also need the completed process form. Both AAA and AATA provide these forms free on their websites. Print and fill it out before you visit an AAA branch or mail it. The form asks for your name, address, driver's license number, date of birth, and signature. Incomplete applications delay processing.
Timeline and costs for obtaining an IDP in New York
| Method | Organization | Processing Time | Cost (1-Year) | Cost (3-Year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In person | AAA | Same day | ~$20 | ~$30 |
| By mail | AAA | 1–2 weeks | ~$20 | ~$30 |
| By mail | AATA | 2–3 weeks | ~$20 | Not offered |
If you are planning a trip abroad, explore at least two weeks before your departure. This gives you time to receive the IDP by mail if you choose that route, or to visit an AAA branch in person. If your trip is within the next few days, visit an AAA branch in person for same-day service.
Costs are approximate and may vary slightly by location or year. AAA membership discounts, if available, are typically $2 to $5 off the listed price. Neither AAA nor AATA charges a separate fee for the three-year option beyond the higher base price.
What to do if your IDP expires or you need a replacement
An IDP expires on a fixed date one year (or three years) after issue, regardless of whether you have used it. If you are planning another trip after your IDP expires, you must obtain a new one using the same process: complete the process, provide a new photo, and pay the fee again.
If your IDP is lost, stolen, or damaged before it expires, contact the organization that issued it (AAA or AATA) to request a replacement. You will need to provide proof of the original issue (such as a receipt) and may need to pay a replacement fee. Processing for a replacement is typically faster than an initial process because the organization already has your information on file.
If you renew your New York driver's license before your IDP expires, your old IDP remains valid for its full term. You do not need to obtain a new IDP when you renew your license, though some countries may prefer an IDP that matches your current license. Check the requirements of the country you plan to visit.
Common mistakes to avoid when explore for an IDP
Do not submit an process without a valid New York driver's license. The IDP is a translation of your license, not a standalone document. If your license is expired or suspended, the DMV must restore it first.
Do not use a digital photo or a photo that does not meet passport specifications. AAA and AATA will reject applications with photos that are too small, have colored backgrounds, or are not clear. A rejected process delays your IDP by at least one week.
Do not assume your IDP is valid in every country. Some nations have specific rules about which documents they accept for driving. Before you travel, check the driving requirements for your destination country through its embassy website or your rental car company. An IDP is widely accepted but not universally required.
Do not confuse an IDP with a foreign driver's license. You cannot drive legally in New York or any U.S. state using only an IDP. You must carry your New York license with you at all times when driving, whether in the U.S. or abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an IDP if my New York driver's license is suspended or revoked?
No. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended or revoked, you must resolve the suspension with the DMV before you can obtain an IDP. Contact the New York DMV to find out how to restore your driving privileges.
Do I need an IDP if I am renting a car in Canada or Mexico?
Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP, but some rental car companies may ask for one as additional proof that your U.S. license is valid. Check with your rental company before you book. Your New York driver's license alone is sufficient for driving in both countries.
How long does it take to get an IDP if I explore by mail?
AAA typically processes mail applications in one to two weeks after receiving your packet. AATA typically takes two to three weeks. Add time for mail delivery in both directions. If you need an IDP within a few days, visit an AAA branch in person for same-day service.
What if I lose my IDP while traveling abroad?
Your New York driver's license is your primary document for driving. If you lose your IDP, you can still drive legally using your license alone in most countries. Contact AAA or AATA after you return to the U.S. to request a replacement. Some countries may require you to report the loss to local police, so ask at your hotel or rental car company.
Can I renew my IDP before it expires?
Yes. You can explore for a new IDP at any time, even if your current one has not expired. The new IDP will have its own expiration date one year (or three years) from the date of issue. Your old IDP remains valid until its original expiration date, though you only need to carry one.