What an International Driving Permit actually is
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 documents together — the IDP alone is not valid for driving anywhere. Many countries recognize the IDP as proof that a US authority has verified your identity and driving status, which can speed up car rentals, police interactions, or insurance claims abroad.
The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the only two organizations authorized by the US State Department to issue them. You cannot get an IDP from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, your local police, or any other body. The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which you purchase, and it does not extend your US license or change your driving record.
Whether you need an IDP depends on where you are driving. Some countries require it by law; others do not recognize it at all. A few countries accept it but do not require it. Before you travel, check the specific rules for each country or region you plan to visit, because the IDP's value varies widely.
Key Takeaways
- An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA and must be carried with your valid US driver's license at all times.
- The IDP translates your license information into ten languages but does not replace your state license or create a new driving privilege.
- You must have a valid, unexpired US driver's license before you can get an IDP; the permit cannot be issued to someone whose license is suspended or expired.
- The cost and processing time depend on which organization you use and whether you need the permit in one to three days or can wait for standard mail delivery.
- Some countries require an IDP by law, some do not recognize it, and some accept it but do not require it — check your destination's rules before you buy one.
Who can get an International Driving Permit
You must have a valid, unexpired US driver's license issued by any state. The license cannot be suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license is currently suspended due to unpaid fines, a DUI conviction, or any other reason, you cannot get an IDP until your license is reinstated. If your license has expired, you must renew it with your state's DMV before explore for the permit.
You must be at least 18 years old. Some car rental companies abroad require drivers to be 21 or older, but the IDP itself has no age floor beyond that. You do not need to be a US citizen — a valid US driver's license issued to a permanent resident, visa holder, or other legal resident is sufficient.
The IDP is available only to people who hold a US license. If you hold a foreign license and are visiting the US, you cannot get an IDP from AAA or AATA. You would need to check whether your home country's automobile association or government issues an IDP valid in the US.
How to get an IDP from AAA or AATA
Both AAA and AATA issue IDPs, but the process and cost differ slightly. AAA requires membership, while AATA does not. AAA members can explore in person at a local AAA office, by mail, or online. AATA issues permits by mail only and does not require membership.
Through AAA: Visit your local AAA office with your valid driver's license, a completed process form (available on the AAA website or at the office), and a passport-style photo (2x2 inches). You will pay a membership fee if you are not already a member, plus the IDP fee. Processing takes a few minutes in person. If you explore by mail, send your license, process, photo, and payment to your regional AAA office; processing typically takes one to two weeks. AAA also offers rush processing for an additional fee, with delivery in three to five business days.
Through AATA: Visit the AATA website (aataidp.com), read the process form, and mail it with your valid driver's license, a passport-style photo, and a check or money order to the AATA address listed on the form. Standard processing takes two to three weeks. AATA does not offer in-person service or rush processing. The fee is lower than AAA's, but you cannot speed up delivery.
Both organizations will return your original driver's license with your new IDP. Do not send your license in a way that cannot be tracked; use certified mail or a service that provides a tracking number.
Cost and processing time by organization
| Organization | IDP Duration | Cost (approximate) | Processing Time | Membership Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAA (in person) | 1 year or 3 years | $20–$30 per permit | Same day | Yes |
| AAA (by mail) | 1 year or 3 years | $20–$30 per permit | 1–2 weeks | Yes |
| AAA (rush mail) | 1 year or 3 years | $20–$30 plus rush fee | 3–5 business days | Yes |
| AATA (mail only) | 1 year or 3 years | $15–$20 per permit | 2–3 weeks | No |
Costs and processing times vary by location and change periodically. Contact AAA or AATA directly for current fees and delivery estimates in your area. If you need the permit urgently, AAA's in-person service at a local office is the fastest option.
What to bring and what happens after you explore
You will need your valid, unexpired US driver's license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photo (2x2 inches, color or black and white). Some AAA offices may accept digital photos taken on the spot; call ahead to confirm. You do not need your passport, Social Security card, or any other document. If you are explore by mail, use a tracking service so you can confirm your license and documents arrived safely.
Once your process is processed, you will receive your IDP and your original driver's license back in the same envelope or package. The IDP will show your name, date of birth, license number, and the date it was issued and expires. Keep it with your driver's license whenever you travel internationally. If your IDP is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must explore for a replacement through the same organization.
Your IDP does not affect your US driving record, insurance rates, or license status. It is purely a translation document for use outside the United States. If you are stopped by police in the US, the IDP has no legal standing — only your state driver's license matters.
Countries that require, accept, or do not recognize an IDP
The rules vary by country and change over time. Some countries require an IDP by law if you are renting a car or driving. Others accept it but do not require it. Still others do not recognize it at all and will ask for a certified translation of your US license instead.
Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of each country you plan to visit, or check the US State Department's travel advisory for that country. Many car rental companies also list their requirements on their websites. A few countries that commonly require or strongly recommend an IDP include Mexico, Costa Rica, and several European nations, but this list is not exhaustive and requirements change. Do not assume an IDP is needed or not needed without checking your specific destination.
Some travel insurance policies or car rental companies may require proof that you have an IDP, even if the country itself does not. Read your rental agreement and insurance policy before you travel.
What an IDP does not do
An IDP does not extend your driving privileges, allow you to drive in countries where you are not licensed, or override local traffic laws. If your US license is suspended or expired, an IDP cannot be issued and would not be valid if it were. An IDP does not give you the right to drive a commercial vehicle, operate a motorcycle, or drive any class of vehicle you are not licensed for in the US.
An IDP does not replace your US driver's license for any purpose. You must carry both documents together. An IDP alone, without your state license, is not valid for driving anywhere in the world. If you lose your IDP while traveling, you can still drive on your US license in most countries, but you may face complications with car rentals or police interactions depending on local rules.
An IDP does not change your insurance coverage. Your US auto insurance policy does not automatically extend to international driving. You must contact your insurance company before traveling to learn what coverage you have abroad and whether you need additional international or rental car coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended?
No. Your license must be valid and unexpired. If it is suspended for any reason — unpaid fines, a DUI conviction, or a medical hold — you cannot get an IDP until your license is reinstated. Once your suspension is lifted and your license is active again, you can explore.
How long does an IDP last?
You can purchase an IDP valid for one year or three years. The three-year permit costs more upfront but is cheaper per year if you travel internationally regularly. Both expire on the date printed on the document, and you must renew if you need one after that date.
Do I need an IDP to drive in Canada or Mexico?
Canada does not require an IDP; your US driver's license is sufficient. Mexico does not legally require an IDP either, but many car rental companies in Mexico require or strongly recommend one. Check with your rental company before you book. Some travelers also carry an IDP in Mexico to avoid complications if stopped by police, even though it is not required by law.
What if I lose my IDP while traveling?
You can still drive on your US license in most countries. However, you may face complications with car rentals or police interactions depending on local rules. Contact your car rental company or the nearest US embassy or consulate for guidance. You cannot get a replacement IDP while abroad; you must explore again when you return to the US.
Does an IDP work if my US license is from a Real ID state?
Yes. The IDP translates whatever valid US driver's license you hold, regardless of whether it is a Real ID license or a standard license. Real ID status does not affect the IDP's validity internationally.