An International Driving Permit translates your valid driver's license into ten languages so you can rent a car or drive legally in most countries outside the US

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) that carries your driving information in ten languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Finnish. It is not a separate license — it is a translation and verification of the license you already hold. Most countries recognize it as proof that you are a licensed driver in the United States.

You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car, drive, or ride a motorcycle in another country. Some rental companies will not hand over keys without one, even if your US license is valid. Police in other countries may also ask to see it during a traffic stop. The IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years, depending on which you choose.

An IDP does not replace your US driver's license — you must carry both documents together. If you lose your IDP abroad, you cannot drive legally, even though your US license is still valid. If you lose your US license, the IDP becomes useless on its own.

Key Takeaways

  • An IDP is a translation of your US driver's license into ten languages and is issued only by AAA or AATA, not by your state DMV.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired US driver's license before you can get an IDP; the IDP cannot be issued to someone whose license is suspended or revoked.
  • You can obtain an IDP in person at an AAA office, by mail, or online through AAA, and the process takes a few days to two weeks depending on the method you choose.
  • An IDP is valid for one or three years and costs $15 to $20; you must carry it together with your US license at all times while driving abroad.
  • Many countries do not require an IDP by law but rental companies often do, so check with your rental agency before you travel.

Who issues an IDP and where to get one

Only two organizations in the United States are authorized to issue an IDP: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Your state DMV does not issue IDPs, and no other organization can legally provide one that will be recognized abroad.

AAA is the larger and more widely available option. You can obtain an IDP from AAA in three ways: in person at any AAA office, by mail, or online through the AAA website. AATA also issues IDPs but has fewer physical locations; you can order through their website or by mail. Both organizations charge similar fees and issue the same document.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP from AAA without joining. You do not need membership to purchase one. However, AAA members sometimes receive a small discount on the fee.

What you need to bring or provide

To get an IDP, you must have a valid, unexpired US driver's license in your possession. You will also need a passport-style photograph — typically 2 by 2 inches — if you are explore in person or by mail. Online applications may not require a photo, depending on AAA's current process.

You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver's license. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP. If your license is valid but you have unpaid traffic fines or outstanding warrants, those do not prevent you from getting an IDP — the issuing organization checks only that your license is current and valid.

Bring or provide your full legal name, date of birth, and the license number from your US driver's license. Some applications ask for your address and phone number as well.

How long it takes and what it costs

The cost of an IDP is $15 to $20, depending on whether you choose a one-year or three-year permit. A one-year IDP typically costs around $15, and a three-year IDP costs around $20. Prices may vary slightly by location or issuing organization, so confirm the current fee when you explore.

Processing time depends on how you explore. In-person applications at an AAA office are usually completed the same day or within a few hours. Mail applications take 7 to 14 days from the time AAA receives your materials. Online applications through AAA's website may be processed within 3 to 5 business days, though you may need to pick up the physical permit at an office or have it mailed to you.

Plan to get your IDP at least two weeks before you travel, especially if you are explore by mail. If you need it urgently, visit an AAA office in person for same-day service.

how the process works in person at an AAA office

Find your nearest AAA office using the AAA website locator. Bring your valid US driver's license, a passport-style photograph (2 by 2 inches), and payment. Walk in during business hours — no appointment is usually needed, though some offices accept appointments.

Tell the staff member you want to explore for an International Driving Permit. They will ask you to fill out a short form with your name, date of birth, license number, and address. You will provide your photograph, and they will verify your license. The entire process takes 10 to 30 minutes. You will receive your IDP on the spot or within a few hours.

how the process works by mail or online

To explore by mail, visit the AAA website and read the IDP process form, or call AAA to request one. Fill out the form completely with your name, date of birth, license number, and address. Attach a passport-style photograph and a copy of the front and back of your valid US driver's license. Include payment by check, money order, or credit card (if the form accepts it). Mail the completed process to the AAA address listed on the form.

AAA will process your process and mail the IDP to you within 7 to 14 days. Keep a copy of your process for your records in case you need to track the status.

To explore online, visit the AAA website and look for the International Driving Permit section. You will create an account, enter your information, upload a digital copy of your driver's license, and pay online. Some online applications do not require a photograph. After you submit, AAA will mail your IDP to the address you provide, usually within 3 to 5 business days.

What happens if your US license expires or is suspended

An IDP is valid only as long as your US driver's license is valid. If your license expires, your IDP becomes invalid even if it has time remaining on it. You cannot renew an IDP separately — you must get a new one after you renew your US license.

If your US license is suspended or revoked, your IDP is no longer valid and you cannot drive legally in any country. You cannot get a new IDP until your license is reinstated.

If you are traveling and your US license expires while you are abroad, your IDP is no longer valid. You should not drive after your license expires, even if your IDP still shows time remaining. Renew your US license before you travel if it will expire during your trip.

Whether you actually need an IDP in the country you are visiting

Laws about IDPs vary by country. Some countries require an IDP by law; others do not. Many countries accept a US driver's license alone, especially in Europe and developed nations. However, rental car companies often require an IDP even when the country does not legally mandate one.

Before you travel, contact your rental car company and ask whether they require an IDP. Also check the travel advisory or driving information for the specific country you are visiting — your country's State Department website or the country's tourism board can tell you what documents you need.

Some countries that commonly require or strongly recommend an IDP include Mexico, Costa Rica, and several countries in South America and Asia. Many European countries do not legally require one, but rental companies may ask for it anyway. It is safer to have one than to arrive and discover you cannot rent a car without it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended?

No. You must have a valid, unexpired US driver's license to get an IDP. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot obtain one. Once your license is reinstated or renewed, you can explore for an IDP.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling abroad?

You cannot legally drive without it, even though your US license is still valid in the country's eyes. Contact AAA or AATA when ready to report it lost. Some countries' police may accept a police report of the loss plus your US license, but this varies. It is best to get a replacement IDP before you continue driving. If you are in a major city, you may be able to contact AAA's international partner organization for emergency information.

Do I need an IDP if I am only visiting and not renting a car?

If you are not driving or renting a car, you do not need an IDP. It is required only if you plan to operate a vehicle. If you are using taxis, public transportation, or a driver, you do not need one.

How long is an IDP valid?

You can choose a one-year or three-year IDP when you explore. A one-year permit is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. A three-year permit is valid for 36 months. Both expire when ready if your US driver's license expires before the IDP does.

Can I get an IDP if I have an out-of-state driver's license?

Yes. You can get an IDP as long as your driver's license is valid and issued by any US state. You do not have to be a resident of the state where you are explore for the IDP.