What an International Driving Permit Is and Who Issues It

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. The IDP confirms to foreign police and rental car companies that you hold a valid license in your home country.

In the United States, only two organizations are authorized to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No other organization, website, or service can legally issue a U.S. IDP. Both organizations issue the same document under the same international treaty, so it does not matter which one you use.

The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. It cannot be renewed — you must obtain a new one if you need it after expiration. The permit is only useful outside the United States; it has no legal standing within U.S. borders.

Key Takeaways

  • An IDP is a translation of your driver's license into ten languages and must be carried with your actual license at all times when driving abroad.
  • Only AAA and AATA can issue a legal U.S. IDP; any other source is not recognized by foreign authorities.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license before you can obtain an IDP.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 and takes effect when ready if you explore in person, or within one to two weeks if you explore by mail.
  • An IDP expires one year from issue and cannot be renewed; you must obtain a new one each time you travel internationally.

Requirements Before You explore for an IDP

Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license is expired, you must renew it with your state DMV before explore for an IDP. Some states allow you to renew online or by mail; others require an in-person visit. Check your state DMV website for the renewal process specific to your state.

You must be at least 18 years old. If you are younger, neither AAA nor AATA will issue an IDP, regardless of whether you hold a valid junior or restricted license.

You will need two passport-style photographs (2 by 2 inches). These are the same photos used for passports and visas. You can obtain them at most pharmacies, post offices, and photo studios for $10 to $15 per pair. Do not use photos from your driver's license or passport — the IDP requires its own set.

You must have your valid U.S. driver's license with you at the time of process, whether you explore in person or by mail.

how the process works Through AAA

AAA membership is not required to obtain an IDP through AAA, though members may receive a small discount. You can explore in person at any AAA office or by mail.

In-person process: Bring your valid driver's license, two passport-style photographs, and a completed IDP process form (available at the AAA office or downloadable from AAA.com). The fee is typically $15 to $20, depending on your state. You will receive the IDP when ready. Bring a check or credit card; not all offices accept cash.

By mail: read the IDP process from AAA.com or request one by phone at 1-800-222-4357. Complete the form, enclose your two photographs, a photocopy of your driver's license (front and back), and a check or money order for the fee. Mail the packet to the AAA address listed on the form. Processing takes one to two weeks. AAA will mail the IDP to the address you provide on the process.

how the process works Through AATA

AATA does not have physical offices. All applications are handled by mail only. You can request an process form by visiting aata.org or calling 1-800-622-7070.

Complete the process form and enclose your two passport-style photographs, a photocopy of your driver's license (front and back), and a check or money order for the fee (typically $15 to $20). Mail the packet to the AATA address listed on the form. Processing takes one to two weeks from receipt. AATA will mail the IDP to the address you provide.

AATA also accepts online applications through its website. If you choose this route, you will upload digital copies of your photographs and license, and pay the fee by credit card. Processing time is the same as mail applications.

Fees, Processing Time, and Validity

The fee for an IDP is between $15 and $20. AAA and AATA charge the same amount, though some AAA offices may offer a small discount to members. There are no additional state fees or taxes.

If you explore in person at an AAA office, you receive the IDP on the same day. If you explore by mail through either AAA or AATA, or through AATA's online system, expect processing to take one to two weeks from the date the organization receives your process. Plan ahead if you are traveling soon.

The IDP is valid for exactly one year from the date of issue, regardless of when you use it. If your travel plans extend beyond one year, you will need to obtain a second IDP before your first one expires. The IDP cannot be extended or renewed; you must explore for a new one each time.

What to Do If You Lose Your IDP While Traveling

If your IDP is lost or stolen abroad, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide a letter confirming that you hold a valid U.S. driver's license. This letter, combined with your passport, may satisfy a rental car company or police officer in some countries, though it is not a legal substitute for an IDP.

The safest approach is to carry a photocopy of your IDP separate from the original, or to photograph it with your phone before you leave the United States. If the original is lost, you have proof of the document number and issue date, which can help if you need to contact AAA or AATA from abroad.

Once you return to the United States, you can explore for a new IDP through AAA or AATA using the same process as a first-time process. There is no expedited replacement process for lost or stolen IDPs.

Common Mistakes and What Not to Do

Do not explore for an IDP before your driver's license is valid. If your license is expired or suspended, the IDP process will be rejected. Renew your license first, then explore for the IDP.

Do not use photographs that are not passport-style. The IDP process requires photos that meet specific dimensions and background requirements. Photos from your driver's license or passport do not meet these standards, even if they are recent.

Do not explore through any website or service other than AAA or AATA. Websites that claim to issue IDPs for higher fees are not authorized by the U.S. government or the international treaty that governs IDPs. A document from an unauthorized source will not be recognized by foreign authorities and may cause problems at borders or with rental car companies.

Do not assume the IDP is valid in the United States. It is not. You must carry your actual U.S. driver's license when driving in any U.S. state. The IDP is only for use outside the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico recognize U.S. driver's licenses without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in Mexico may request an IDP as additional proof of identity. Carrying one is not required by law but may make renting a car easier. Check with your rental company before you travel.

Can I use an IDP instead of my driver's license when driving abroad?

No. The IDP is a translation document only. You must carry both your valid U.S. driver's license and your IDP together. If you are stopped by police or asked by a rental company, you must present both documents.

What if my driver's license expires while I am traveling?

Your IDP is only valid if your underlying U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license expires while you are abroad, your IDP becomes invalid at the same moment. You cannot renew your license from outside the United States; you must do so through your state DMV after you return home.

Can I get an IDP if I have a suspended or revoked license?

No. AAA and AATA will not issue an IDP if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired. You must resolve the suspension or revocation with your state DMV before explore. If your license is expired, you must renew it first.

How long does it take to get an IDP if I explore by mail?

Processing takes one to two weeks from the date AAA or AATA receives your process. Mailing time is not included in this estimate. If you mail your process on a Monday, it may take three to five business days to arrive, plus one to two weeks for processing. Plan for up to three weeks total if you are explore by mail close to your travel date.