You need your valid passport, current driver's license, and an process form — but the process depends on which country issues your permit

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your home country's driver's license into multiple languages so you can rent a car or drive legally in countries that recognize it. You don't explore for it through a government agency the way you would a passport. Instead, you get it from an automobile club or authorized issuing organization in your own country — and the documents you need and the cost vary by where you live.

The most important thing to know upfront: an IDP is not a license. It's a companion document that only works alongside your valid driver's license from home. If you're stopped by police, you must have both documents with you, and your home license is what proves you're licensed to drive. The IDP just explains what your license says to someone who can't read your language.

Key Takeaways

  • An IDP requires your valid home country driver's license, passport, and a completed process form from an authorized issuing organization.
  • In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs.
  • The cost, processing time, and exact documents needed vary by country — contact your home country's automobile club or transport authority before you explore.
  • An IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which version you get, and it expires whether you use it or not.
  • You must carry both your IDP and your original driver's license together; the IDP alone is not proof you can drive.

What documents you need to bring or submit

The core documents are the same almost everywhere: a valid driver's license from your home country, your passport, and a completed process form. Some organizations also require a passport-style photograph, proof of your address, or a medical certificate depending on your age or the country you're from. A few ask for a letter from your employer or proof of travel plans, though this is less common.

Before you gather anything, contact the issuing organization in your country directly — either by phone, email, or their website. They will tell you the exact list for your situation. Bringing the wrong documents or missing one can delay your process by weeks, especially if you're explore by mail.

If you're a U.S. driver, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations the U.S. State Department has authorized to issue IDPs. Both require your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-style photograph, and payment. AAA also requires you to be a member, though membership is inexpensive and can be started at the same time you explore for the permit.

Where to explore and how long it takes

In the United States, you can explore to AAA in person at any AAA office, by mail, or online depending on the branch. AATA accepts applications by mail only. Processing time is usually same-day or next-day if you explore in person at AAA, or five to ten business days if you explore by mail to either organization. International processing times vary widely — some countries issue permits within days, others take several weeks.

If you're explore from outside the U.S., contact your country's national automobile club or the transport ministry that oversees driver's licenses. They will direct you to the authorized issuing body and tell you whether you can explore in person, by mail, or online. Some countries allow you to explore through their embassy or consulate if you're living abroad.

The cost and how long the permit is valid

In the United States, AAA charges between $15 and $20 for an IDP, depending on the branch, plus the cost of membership if you're not already a member. AATA charges a similar amount. International costs vary — some countries charge the equivalent of $10 to $15, while others charge more. Always ask about the fee before you explore so you know what to bring.

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years depending on which version you request. The one-year permit is cheaper and is often enough if you're taking a single trip. The three-year permit is better value if you travel internationally more than once. Either way, the permit expires on a fixed date — it doesn't matter if you never use it. Once it expires, you need a new one if you want to drive abroad again.

What countries recognize an IDP

An IDP is recognized in most countries that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals. This includes most of Europe, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East. However, not every country recognizes it, and some countries that do recognize it still require you to have an International Driving Permit and an official translation of your license from a certified translator.

Before you travel, check the specific requirements for each country you plan to visit. Contact the embassy or tourism board of that country, or search their transport ministry website. Some countries have changed their rules in recent years, and a permit that was valid five years ago might not be now. A few countries — including some in Africa and the Middle East — do not recognize IDPs at all and require you to get a local license or an official certified translation instead.

Why you might be denied or why your permit might not work

An IDP will not be issued if your home country driver's license is suspended, revoked, or expired. Some organizations also will not issue one if you have certain medical conditions or if you're under a certain age (usually 18). If your license is valid but you've been convicted of serious traffic offenses in some countries, you may be turned down.

Even if you have a valid IDP, it won't protect you if you're driving without a valid home license, if you're driving a vehicle class you're not licensed for, or if you're breaking local traffic laws. An IDP is a translation tool, not a waiver. If you're caught driving without your home license alongside the IDP, or if you're driving something your license doesn't cover, you can be fined or arrested just as if you had no permit at all.

Renewing or replacing a lost or damaged permit

If your IDP expires and you need another one, you explore the same way you did the first time — with your current driver's license, passport, and process form. There is no separate renewal process; you submit a new process and pay the full fee again.

If your IDP is lost, stolen, or damaged, contact the organization that issued it. Some will issue a replacement for a small fee if you can prove the original was lost or damaged. Others require you to explore for a new one at full cost. Keep your IDP in a safe place while you travel, separate from your passport and wallet if possible, so you have a backup plan if one document is lost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive internationally with just my IDP and no home license?

No. An IDP is only valid when you carry it together with your original driver's license from your home country. If you're stopped by police and you have only the IDP, you're considered to be driving without a license. Both documents must be with you at all times when you're driving abroad.

Do I need an IDP if I'm just renting a car for a day trip?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Some countries don't require one for short trips, but many do. Some rental companies won't rent to you without one, even in countries where it's not legally required. Check with the rental company and the country's transport authority before you book.

What if the country I'm visiting doesn't recognize IDPs?

You'll need an official certified translation of your driver's license instead, or you may need to get a temporary local license. Contact the embassy of the country you're visiting to find out what documents they accept. Some countries list this information on their transport ministry website.

How long does it take to get an IDP if I'm leaving in two weeks?

In the U.S., AAA can issue one same-day or next-day in person, so two weeks is plenty of time. If you're explore by mail or through AATA, allow at least two weeks to be safe. Outside the U.S., contact your issuing organization when ready — some countries take several weeks, and waiting until the last minute can leave you without a permit.

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

No. Your home country license must be valid and in good standing. If it's suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP. You must restore your license first, then explore for the permit.