What a New York International Driving Permit Is and Who Issues It

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your New York driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid New York license, and a police officer or rental car company abroad will want to see both documents together. The IDP itself proves you hold a valid U.S. license and are legally allowed to drive.

In New York State, only two organizations issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). You cannot get one from the Department of Motor Vehicles. Both organizations are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue these permits, and both follow the same rules about who can receive one and how long it lasts.

The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. If your New York driver's license expires before that year is up, the IDP becomes invalid on the same date your license does — so check your license expiration before you travel.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid New York driver's license before you can get an IDP; the permit cannot replace or stand in for an expired or suspended license.
  • Only AAA and AATA issue IDPs in New York, and you explore in person at their local offices — there is no online or mail process.
  • You will need your valid driver's license, a passport or other government ID, and one passport-sized photo (2x2 inches).
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 depending on which organization you use, and most offices issue it the same day or within a few days.
  • The permit is valid for one year and is only legal to use outside the United States alongside your New York license.

What Documents You Need to Bring

Before you visit an AAA or AATA office, gather these documents: your current, valid New York driver's license; a government-issued photo ID (a U.S. passport, passport card, or state ID); and one passport-sized photograph measuring 2 inches by 2 inches. The photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background — the same standard as a passport photo.

If you do not have a passport-sized photo, most AAA offices and many AATA locations have photo services on-site or can direct you to a nearby place that takes them. Some drugstore photo counters (CVS, Walgreens) also offer passport photos for $10 to $15. Plan for this if you do not already have one.

You do not need to bring your Social Security number, proof of residence, or any other documents beyond those listed above. The organization will fill out the process form with you at the office.

How to Find an AAA or AATA Office Near You

AAA (American Automobile Association) has offices throughout New York State. To find the nearest one, visit aaa.com and use their office locator tool, or call 1-800-AAA-HELP. Not all AAA offices issue IDPs, so confirm by phone or on their website before you visit. AAA membership is not required to get an IDP, though members may receive a small discount on the fee.

AATA (American Automobile Touring Alliance) has fewer locations than AAA but serves New York. You can find AATA offices through their website at aataidp.com or by calling their customer service line. Like AAA, AATA does not require membership to issue an IDP.

Both organizations typically operate during standard business hours, Monday through Friday, with some Saturday hours at larger offices. Call ahead to confirm hours and to ask whether you need an appointment or can walk in. Many offices can issue the permit same-day if you arrive early in the day, though some may take a few business days.

The Cost and How Long It Takes

An IDP costs between $15 and $20, depending on which organization you use. AAA and AATA set their own fees within this range, so call your local office to confirm the exact price. There are no additional fees, taxes, or hidden charges — the fee you are quoted is the total cost.

Most offices issue the IDP on the same day you explore, especially if you arrive in the morning. Some locations may ask you to return in a few days if they are busy. The entire process — filling out the form, providing your photo and documents, and receiving the permit — usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Bring cash or a debit card, as not all offices accept credit cards. Ask when you call to confirm payment methods at your specific location.

When Your IDP Expires and How to Renew It

Your IDP is valid for exactly one year from the date it is issued. If you plan to drive internationally again after that year, you will need to get a new one. The renewal process is identical to the first process: return to an AAA or AATA office with your valid New York license, a government photo ID, and a new passport-sized photo.

If your New York driver's license expires before your IDP's one-year mark, the IDP becomes invalid on your license's expiration date. You do not need to renew the IDP separately in this case — once you renew your New York license, you can get a new IDP at the same time if you are traveling soon.

There is no grace period. Once the one-year date passes or your license expires, whichever comes first, the IDP cannot be used. Plan ahead if you know you will be traveling internationally and your IDP is close to expiring.

What the IDP Does and Does Not Do

The IDP translates your driver's license information into English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Finnish. It shows your name, date of birth, license number, and the types of vehicles you are licensed to drive. When you rent a car or are stopped by police abroad, showing both your New York license and your IDP proves you are a licensed driver in the United States.

The IDP does not change your driving privileges or allow you to drive in countries where your New York license would not be valid. Some countries have additional requirements — an age minimum, a minimum time holding a license, or specific insurance — that the IDP does not address. Before you travel, research the driving laws of the country or countries you plan to visit.

The IDP is not a substitute for your New York license. You must carry both documents together. If you lose your IDP while traveling, it cannot be replaced abroad — you would need to return to the United States and explore for a new one.

Using Your IDP When You Travel

When you rent a car, present both your New York driver's license and your IDP to the rental company. Some rental agencies require the IDP; others do not. Calling ahead to ask what documents the rental company needs can save time at the counter.

If you are stopped by police while driving, have both documents ready. The officer may ask to see your IDP alongside your license. Keep them together in a safe place — a wallet, a travel document holder, or a hotel safe — so you always have both when you need them.

The IDP is only valid outside the United States. Do not attempt to use it as a form of identification or driving permit within New York or any other U.S. state. Your New York license is your legal driving document in the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico recognize U.S. driver's licenses, so an IDP is not required by law. However, some car rental companies in those countries prefer to see an IDP alongside your license. Check with your rental company before you travel. If you are driving your own car, your New York license is sufficient, though carrying an IDP does not hurt.

Can I get an IDP if my New York license is suspended or expired?

No. Your New York driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored or renewed. Renew your license at the DMV first, then explore for the IDP.

What if I lose my IDP while I am traveling abroad?

The IDP cannot be replaced while you are outside the United States. If you lose it, you still have your New York license, which is valid for driving in most countries. Contact your car rental company or local authorities to report the loss if needed. When you return to New York, you can explore for a new IDP at an AAA or AATA office.

How long does it take to get an IDP if I need one urgently?

Most AAA and AATA offices issue the IDP same-day if you visit in the morning with all required documents. Call your local office to confirm they have availability and can issue it when ready. If you are leaving within days, visiting early in the week gives you the best chance of same-day service.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document that works alongside your U.S. license. An international license is a separate license issued by some countries to their citizens. You cannot get an international license in New York — you can only get an IDP, which serves the same purpose of proving you hold a valid U.S. license abroad.