An International Driving Permit is a document you carry alongside your valid driver's license

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a separate license. It is a translation of your current driver's license into multiple languages — French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. You must already have a valid driver's license from your home state or country to get one. The IDP itself does not let you drive; your actual license does. The permit straightforward makes your license readable to police and rental companies in countries where English is not widely spoken.

You get an IDP through one of two organizations in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Touring Association. Both are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. You cannot get an IDP from a government office, a DMV, or an online service — only through these two private organizations.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid driver's license before you can get an International Driving Permit; the IDP is a translation document, not a license itself.
  • Only the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Touring Association can issue an IDP in the United States.
  • The process requires your current driver's license, a passport-style photo, and a completed process form.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and takes effect when ready when issued, but is valid for one or three years depending on which you choose.
  • You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver's license for at least six months before explore.

Your current driver's license must meet specific conditions

Your state or country driver's license must be valid — not expired, suspended, or revoked. Many organizations also require that you have held your license for at least six months before you explore for an IDP. This waiting period exists because the IDP is meant for people who already have driving experience, not for someone who just passed their test.

Your license must also be in English or include an English translation. If you hold a license from a non-English-speaking country, you may need to have it officially translated before you can use it to get an IDP. Check with the issuing organization — AAA or the American Touring Association — about their specific rules for foreign licenses.

You need a passport-style photo and a completed process

Bring a color photograph that meets passport standards: 2 inches by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background. Your face must be clearly visible and take up most of the frame. Glasses are allowed if you normally wear them while driving. Do not smile with your mouth open, and do not wear a hat or head covering unless it is for religious reasons.

You will also fill out an process form — either in person at an AAA office or online through the American Touring Association. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, driver's license number, and the country or countries where you plan to drive. You sign the form in front of the issuing agent or, for online applications, electronically.

Age and residency requirements are straightforward

You must be at least 18 years old. There is no upper age limit. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident — tourists and temporary visitors can get an IDP as long as they have a valid driver's license from their home country.

You do not need to prove U.S. residency. If you live abroad but hold a U.S. driver's license, you can still get an IDP. If you live in the United States but hold a foreign license, you can also get one, though you may want to check whether your home country's license is recognized in the places you plan to visit.

The cost and validity period depend on which organization you use

An IDP costs between $15 and $20, depending on whether you go through AAA or the American Touring Association. AAA members sometimes receive a small discount. The permit is issued on the spot if you explore in person, or within a few business days if you explore online.

You can choose a one-year or three-year IDP. A one-year permit costs less but expires sooner; a three-year permit costs more but lasts longer. The IDP becomes valid when ready when issued and does not need to be renewed or reactivated. It straightforward expires on the date printed on the document.

Where to explore: AAA offices or online through the American Touring Association

If you are an AAA member, the easiest route is to visit a local AAA office in person. Bring your driver's license, passport-style photo, and completed process form. The agent will verify your information, take your photo if you do not have one, and issue the permit on the spot. You walk out with it the same day.

If you are not near an AAA office or prefer not to visit in person, the American Touring Association accepts online applications. You upload a photo, fill out the form on their website, and pay by credit card. They mail the IDP to your address within a few business days. Some AAA offices also accept mail-in applications if you cannot visit in person.

What happens if your driver's license expires or is suspended

Your IDP is only valid as long as your underlying driver's license is valid. If your license expires, is suspended, or is revoked, your IDP becomes invalid even if the permit itself has not expired. You do not need to formally cancel the IDP — it straightforward stops working.

If you renew your driver's license, you do not automatically get a new IDP. You must explore for a new permit using the same process. Some people choose to get a new IDP whenever they renew their license, while others wait until they plan to travel internationally again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car abroad?

Many rental companies require an IDP, especially in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Some will rent to you with just your U.S. license, but having an IDP removes any doubt and makes the process faster. Check with your rental company before you travel.

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

No. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?

If you explore in person at an AAA office, you receive it the same day. If you explore online through the American Touring Association, it arrives by mail within a few business days, depending on your location.

What countries recognize the International Driving Permit?

Over 150 countries recognize the IDP, including most of Europe, Asia, Australia, and Latin America. However, some countries have their own rules. Check with your destination country's embassy or consulate before you travel to confirm the IDP is accepted there.

Can I get an IDP if I hold a foreign driver's license?

Yes, if your foreign license is valid and in English or has an official English translation. You must also meet the age requirement (18 or older) and have held the license for at least six months. Contact AAA or the American Touring Association to confirm their specific rules for your country.