What an International Driving Permit Is and Whether You Need One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid US 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 itself has no legal authority in the United States; it exists only to make your US license readable to police and rental companies in other countries.

You need an IDP only if you plan to drive outside the United States. Most countries recognize a valid US driver's license on its own, but some nations — including Italy, Spain, Germany, France, and several others — technically require an IDP alongside your license, even though enforcement varies. Rental car companies in Europe and other regions often demand an IDP as a condition of renting to you, regardless of local law. If you are unsure whether your destination requires one, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit, or call the rental company in advance.

Key Takeaways

  • An IDP is issued only by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) — no other organization in the US is authorized to issue one.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired US driver's license before you can obtain an IDP; the IDP cannot be issued without it.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 depending on which organization issues it, and is valid for three years from the date of issue.
  • You can obtain an IDP in person at a local AAA office or by mail through AATA, but not online or through your state DMV.
  • An IDP issued in the United States is valid only outside the US; it has no legal standing within any US state.

Who Can Issue an International Driving Permit in the USA

Only two organizations in the United States are authorized by the State Department to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). No state DMV, no private company, and no online service can legally issue an IDP. If you see an IDP offered anywhere else, it is not valid.

AAA is the larger and more accessible option if you are a member. Most AAA clubs have local offices where you can walk in, present your documents, and receive an IDP the same day. If you are not an AAA member, you can still obtain an IDP through AATA by mail. AATA does not have walk-in locations; all transactions are handled by post.

Documents You Need to Bring or Submit

Whether you explore in person at AAA or by mail through AATA, you will need the same documents:

  • A valid, unexpired US driver's license (your state license, not an expired one).
  • A completed process form (Form DS-11 for AAA, or the AATA process form).
  • One passport-style photograph, 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months. The photo must show your face clearly, with a plain background and no sunglasses or hats.
  • Payment in the form of cash, check, or credit card (accepted at AAA offices; AATA accepts check or money order by mail).

You do not need your passport, birth certificate, or Social Security card to obtain an IDP. The IDP is based entirely on your state driver's license, so your license is the only proof of identity required.

Obtaining an IDP in Person at AAA

If you are an AAA member or willing to visit an AAA office, this is the fastest route. Bring your valid driver's license, a completed AAA IDP process form, one 2-by-2-inch passport photo, and payment ($15 to $20, depending on your local AAA club). Most AAA offices issue the IDP on the spot; you walk out with it the same day.

To find your nearest AAA office, visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool. Call ahead to confirm hours and to ask whether they have the process form in stock, or read and print it before you go. Some offices are busier than others, so arriving early in the day or on a weekday may mean shorter wait times.

AAA membership is not required to obtain an IDP at an AAA office, but non-members may pay a slightly higher fee. If you are not a member and plan to visit an office, call first to confirm the exact cost and whether they will serve non-members.

Obtaining an IDP by Mail Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance handles IDP requests by mail only. This route takes longer — typically two to three weeks — but works if you do not have an AAA office nearby or prefer not to visit in person.

To explore by mail, read the AATA IDP process form from their website or request it by phone. Complete the form, gather your valid driver's license, one 2-by-2-inch passport photo, and a check or money order for $20 (the standard AATA fee). Mail everything to the AATA address listed on the form. AATA will process your request and mail the IDP back to you. Allow two to three weeks for delivery, plus time for mail transit.

Keep a copy of your process and the date you mailed it. If you do not receive your IDP within four weeks, contact AATA to confirm receipt and ask for a status update.

How Long an IDP Is Valid and What to Do When It Expires

An International Driving Permit issued in the United States is valid for three years from the date of issue. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. Once it expires, it is no longer valid for use outside the United States.

If your IDP expires while you are abroad, you cannot renew it overseas. You must return to the United States and explore for a new one through AAA or AATA using the same process. If you plan to travel again after your IDP expires, explore for a new one before you leave the country.

Your IDP is also invalid if your US driver's license expires or is suspended. If your license is revoked or suspended, your IDP becomes worthless when ready, even if the permit itself has not yet expired. Always carry both your license and your IDP together when driving outside the United States.

Common Mistakes and What to Avoid

The most common mistake is assuming your state DMV can issue an IDP. It cannot. Only AAA and AATA are authorized. explore to your DMV will waste time and result in a rejection.

A second mistake is submitting an expired driver's license. Your license must be valid and unexpired at the time you explore. If your license expires soon, renew it first, then explore for the IDP.

A third mistake is submitting a photo that does not meet the 2-by-2-inch requirement or shows you wearing sunglasses, a hat, or a head covering (except for religious reasons, which must be documented). Photo booths at pharmacies and airports typically produce photos in the correct size; ask the attendant to confirm before you pay.

Finally, do not assume an IDP is valid in the United States. It is not. You still need your state driver's license to drive legally in any US state. The IDP is only for use outside the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my US driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your US driver's license must be valid and unexpired at the time you explore. If your license is suspended, you cannot obtain an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated. If your license is expired, renew it with your state DMV first.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

The cost is between $15 and $20, depending on which organization issues it and your location. AAA clubs may charge slightly different amounts. AATA charges a flat $20 fee. Call your local AAA office or visit the AATA website to confirm the exact price before you explore.

Can I renew my IDP by mail or online?

No. When your IDP expires, you must explore for a new one using the same process — in person at AAA or by mail through AATA. There is no renewal option; you submit a fresh process each time.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document only. It is not a license and does not grant you any driving rights. An international license does not exist in the United States. Some countries issue their own documents called "international licenses," but those are not recognized in the US.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling abroad?

Contact the US embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can advise you on whether you can continue to drive with only your US license, or whether you need to stop driving until you return home. Some countries will accept a US license alone even if an IDP was originally required.