Where an International Driving Permit works

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recognized in roughly 150 countries and territories worldwide. The actual list changes as countries update their traffic laws, so the number is not fixed. The IDP works alongside your valid U.S. driver's license — it does not replace it. You must carry both documents together, and the country you are visiting must recognize the IDP format your issuing authority used.

The IDP is issued under one of two international conventions: the 1926 convention or the 1968 convention. Most countries recognize one or both. The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs. If you obtained an IDP from any other source, it may not be recognized abroad.

Before you travel, check with the specific country's embassy or consulate website to confirm they recognize the IDP. Some countries accept it for tourism but not for work or residence. Others require additional documents like an International Certificate of Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance or a vehicle registration document. A few countries do not recognize the IDP at all and require you to obtain a local driving permit instead.

Key Takeaways

  • An IDP is recognized in approximately 150 countries, but you must carry it with your valid U.S. driver's license at all times while driving abroad.
  • Only the AAA and AATA are authorized to issue valid IDPs in the United States; permits from other sources may not be accepted.
  • The country you visit must recognize the specific IDP convention (1926 or 1968) that your permit was issued under.
  • You should contact the destination country's embassy or consulate before traveling to confirm the IDP is accepted and what other documents you may need.

Countries that accept the IDP

Most of Europe, Central America, South America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania accept the IDP. This includes popular tourist destinations like France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Thailand. The IDP is also recognized in Canada and many Caribbean nations.

However, acceptance varies by region and sometimes by region within a country. For example, some U.S. territories and possessions have their own rules. Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam each have different requirements. The IDP may be accepted in one Caribbean island nation but not in a neighboring one.

The most reliable way to know whether your destination accepts the IDP is to visit the country's official government website or contact its embassy in Washington, D.C., or the nearest U.S. consulate in that country. Many embassies maintain a page specifically about driving requirements for U.S. citizens.

Countries that do not accept the IDP

Some countries do not recognize the IDP and require you to obtain a local driving permit or an official translation of your U.S. license instead. China is the most commonly cited example — it does not accept the IDP and requires a Chinese driving license for any driving on Chinese roads. Russia also does not recognize the IDP and has its own permit requirements.

A few other nations have restrictions or do not accept the IDP at all, though the list is smaller than it once was. Some countries in the Middle East and Central Asia fall into this category, though rules change periodically. If you are planning to drive in a country you are unsure about, contact that country's embassy before you book your trip. Driving without the proper documentation can result in fines, vehicle impoundment, or legal trouble.

What to do if your destination does not accept the IDP

If the country you are visiting does not recognize the IDP, you have two main options: obtain a local driving permit from that country, or get an official translation of your U.S. driver's license.

An official translation is a certified document that translates your U.S. license into the language of the country you are visiting. You can obtain one through the AAA (which offers translations into multiple languages), through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, or through a certified translator in the destination country. Some countries require the translation to be notarized or certified by a specific authority. Check with the destination country's embassy to learn what format they require.

A local driving permit is a license issued by the country itself. The process varies widely — some countries issue temporary permits to tourists within days, while others require you to take a written test or driving exam. Some require you to establish residency first. Contact the destination country's transportation authority or embassy to learn what steps you need to take and how long the process takes.

How to verify acceptance before you travel

The safest approach is to contact the destination country's embassy or consulate at least two to three weeks before your trip. Most embassies have a website with a section on driving requirements for U.S. citizens. If the website does not answer your question, call or email the consular section directly — they handle these questions regularly and can give you a definitive answer.

You can also check the U.S. State Department's travel advisory page for your destination country. While it does not always list specific driving requirements, it often links to the country's official transportation authority or provides contact information for the embassy.

If you are renting a car, contact the rental company before you book. Many rental companies have their own policies about which documents they require and which countries they will rent to U.S. drivers in. Some require an IDP; others do not. Getting this information in advance prevents problems when you arrive at the rental counter.

IDP validity and what happens if it expires while you are abroad

An IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue. If your IDP expires while you are traveling, it is no longer recognized in any country. You cannot renew an IDP while abroad — you must return to the United States and explore for a new one through the AAA or AATA.

If your IDP expires during a long trip, you will need to stop driving or find another way to meet the country's requirements. Some countries will accept your U.S. license alone if your IDP has expired, but many will not. To avoid this problem, check your IDP's expiration date before you book your trip and explore for a new one if it will expire during your travel dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car for a few days in Europe?

Most European countries accept the IDP, but some rental companies require it as a condition of renting to you. Check with your rental company before you book. If they do not require it but the country does, you will need it. It is inexpensive and takes a few days to obtain, so getting one in advance is the safest choice.

Can I drive in Canada with just my U.S. driver's license?

Yes. Canada accepts a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some provinces may have additional requirements, so check with the province you are visiting. An IDP is not necessary but does not hurt to have.

What if I lose my IDP while I am traveling?

Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate when ready. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide documentation of your loss and advise you on whether you can continue driving with just your U.S. license. Some countries will accept this documentation temporarily; others will not. Do not drive without confirming first.

Is an IDP the same as a local driver's license?

No. An IDP is a translation and certification of your U.S. license, not a license itself. It has no legal standing on its own — you must carry your valid U.S. license with it at all times. A local driver's license is issued by the country itself and is a separate document.

Do I need an IDP if I am only driving in the United States?

No. The IDP is only for driving outside the United States. Your valid U.S. driver's license is all you need to drive within the country.