An International Driving Document is a translation of your home country's driver's license, not a separate license

An International Driving Document (sometimes called an International Driving Permit or IDP) is a booklet that translates your existing driver's license into multiple languages. It does not replace your home license and does not give you driving rights you do not already have. You must carry both your original license and the IDP together — the IDP alone is not valid.

The document is recognized in over 150 countries and is issued under the 1926 International Convention on Motor Vehicle Traffic. It exists because a police officer in France or Japan may not be able to read an English-language license from California or Texas. The IDP provides proof that your home license is legitimate and explains what vehicle classes you are permitted to drive.

The IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which type you request and which country issues it. It cannot be renewed — you must obtain a new one when it expires. The document is issued by your home country's transportation authority, not by an international body.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Document is a translation booklet that must be carried together with your original driver's license; neither is valid without the other.
  • The IDP is issued by your home country's DMV or equivalent authority, not by an international organization, and the process and cost vary by state or country.
  • You must explore in person at a DMV office in most U.S. states; online or mail-in requests are not accepted for IDPs.
  • The document is valid for one or three years and cannot be renewed — you must obtain a new IDP when the old one expires.
  • An IDP does not extend your driving rights; it only translates your existing license into languages recognized internationally.

Who Issues the International Driving Document in the United States

In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) is the sole authorized issuer of International Driving Documents. You cannot obtain an IDP directly from your state's DMV. AAA is the official U.S. representative to the International Road Federation and holds the authority to issue IDPs under the 1926 Convention.

You do not need to be a AAA member to request an IDP, though membership can sometimes reduce the fee. AAA has local offices in all 50 states. You can find your nearest office on the AAA website and call ahead to confirm they issue IDPs and what documents you need to bring.

Some travel agencies and passport acceptance facilities may advertise IDP services, but they are not authorized issuers. If you use a third party, confirm they are working with AAA directly and not charging you a markup for a service AAA provides at a lower cost.

Documents You Need to Bring to AAA

When you visit AAA to request an International Driving Document, bring the following:

  • Your valid U.S. driver's license (the original, not a copy).
  • A completed IDP process form (AAA provides this; you can also read it from their website before you go).
  • Two passport-style photographs (2 inches by 2 inches), taken within the last six months. The photos must show your face clearly against a plain background.
  • Proof of your current address (a utility bill, bank statement, or lease dated within the last 60 days).
  • Payment in cash, check, or card (AAA accepts all three; fees vary by state but typically range from $15 to $20).

Do not send documents by mail. AAA requires you to explore in person at a local office. Bring originals, not copies — AAA staff will verify your license and photographs before issuing the document.

How Long the Process Takes and When You Receive Your IDP

Most AAA offices issue the International Driving Document on the same day you explore, provided you bring all required documents and your process is complete. You will walk out with the booklet in hand.

If your process is incomplete or your photographs do not meet the standard, AAA will tell you what is missing and may ask you to return with corrected materials. This can add a few days to the process.

Some AAA offices in very busy locations may ask you to return the next day or within a few days to pick up your IDP. Call your local office before you visit to ask whether same-day issuance is available or whether you should expect to wait.

How Long Your International Driving Document Is Valid

When you request an IDP from AAA, you can choose a one-year or three-year validity period. The three-year option costs more but is useful if you plan multiple international trips or a long-term stay abroad.

The IDP expires on the date printed on the front cover. You cannot renew it — you must obtain a new IDP when the old one expires. If you are still abroad when your IDP expires, you can request a new one from AAA before you leave the United States, or you can explore for one when you return home.

Your IDP is valid only while your U.S. driver's license is also valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. If your license is suspended or revoked, your IDP is also no longer valid.

What Happens If Your License Changes or You Lose Your IDP

If you renew your U.S. driver's license before your IDP expires, your old IDP is no longer valid. You must obtain a new IDP that matches your new license number. Visit AAA with your new license and follow the same process process.

If you lose your IDP while you are abroad, you can still drive using your original U.S. license alone in most countries, though you lose the translation benefit. When you return to the United States, you can request a replacement IDP from AAA. Bring your valid U.S. license, two new passport-style photographs, proof of address, and payment. AAA will issue a new IDP with a new expiration date.

If your IDP is stolen, report the theft to local police in the country where it was stolen. Keep a copy of the police report for your records. You do not need to report the theft to AAA, but you should obtain a replacement IDP before your next international trip.

International Driving Document vs. a Foreign License: Which One You Need

An International Driving Document is not the same as a foreign driver's license. The IDP is a translation of your U.S. license and is valid only while you hold a valid U.S. license. A foreign license is a separate document issued by another country and allows you to drive in that country even if your U.S. license has expired.

If you are moving to another country permanently or staying for more than a few months, you may need to obtain a driver's license in that country. The IDP is designed for short-term travel — vacations, business trips, or temporary assignments. Most countries allow you to drive on your U.S. license and IDP for up to one year as a visitor.

If you are unsure whether you need an IDP or a foreign license, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit. They can tell you what documents are required and how long you can drive on a U.S. license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive internationally with just my U.S. license and no IDP?

Yes, in most countries you can drive on your U.S. license alone. However, police officers may have difficulty reading an English-language license, and some countries prefer or require an IDP as proof that your license is legitimate. An IDP removes doubt and is inexpensive to obtain, so it is worth having if you plan to rent a car or drive abroad.

Do I need an IDP if I am renting a car from an international rental company?

Most major rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Enterprise) do not require an IDP, but they do require your valid U.S. driver's license. Some smaller rental agencies or companies in certain countries may request an IDP. Check your rental agreement or call the rental company before you travel to confirm what documents they need.

What countries recognize the International Driving Document?

Over 150 countries recognize the IDP, including most of Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia. However, some countries have restrictions or do not recognize it. Before you travel, contact the embassy of your destination country or check their driving regulations online to confirm the IDP is accepted.

Can I get an IDP if my U.S. driver's license is expired or suspended?

No. Your U.S. license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP. Renew or restore your U.S. license first, then visit AAA to request an IDP.

What if I need an IDP but cannot visit an AAA office in person?

AAA does not accept mail-in or online IDP requests. You must explore in person at a local AAA office. If you cannot visit an office before your trip, consider whether you truly need an IDP for your destination, or plan your trip to allow time for an in-person visit to AAA.