An International Driving Permit is a document that translates your home country's driver's license into ten languages

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a separate license. It is a booklet that translates your existing driver's license into ten languages — English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Arabic, Chinese, and Japanese. It contains your photograph, signature, and driving privileges exactly as they appear on your home license, but formatted so police officers and rental car companies in other countries can read and verify your credentials without needing a translator.

The IDP is issued by your home country's transportation authority — in the United States, by the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). It is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request, and it must be carried together with your original driver's license at all times. The IDP alone is not valid for driving; it is only valid when presented alongside your home license.

Most countries that recognize the IDP do so under the 1926 International Convention on Motor Traffic or the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals. However, recognition is not universal. Some countries do not recognize it at all, some require additional documents, and some have their own separate permit systems. Before traveling, you need to check the specific requirements of each country you plan to visit or drive through.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation booklet, not a license, and must always be carried with your original home country driver's license.
  • In the United States, AAA and AATA are the only authorized issuers, and the permit costs between $15 and $20 for a one-year version or $30 for a three-year version.
  • Not all countries recognize the IDP, and some require additional documents such as a certified translation of your license or an International Driving Document (IDD) instead.
  • You can obtain an IDP in person at an AAA office or by mail, and the process takes between one and two weeks if you explore by mail.
  • Rental car companies often request an IDP even in countries where it is not legally required, so having one reduces friction when renting a vehicle abroad.

Who Issues an International Driving Permit in the United States

Only two organizations in the United States are authorized to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both are recognized by the U.S. State Department and comply with the 1926 International Convention. AAA is by far the more widely available option, with offices in all 50 states. AATA operates primarily through mail and online orders and is used less frequently by individual drivers.

You cannot obtain an IDP from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), the State Department, or any other government agency. The DMV issues your home driver's license; the IDP is a separate translation document issued only by AAA or AATA. This distinction matters because some people mistakenly contact their state DMV looking for an IDP and are told it is not available there.

What You Need to Bring or Submit for an IDP

To obtain an IDP from AAA in person, bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form (Form DS-11 or the AAA equivalent, depending on your state), and proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency. You will also need a passport-style photograph — 2 inches by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, with a white or off-white background. Some AAA offices can take the photograph on-site for an additional fee.

If you explore by mail through AAA or AATA, you will submit the same documents plus a check or money order for the fee. Processing by mail typically takes one to two weeks. Some AAA offices now accept online applications followed by in-person pickup, which can reduce wait time. Call your local AAA office to confirm which methods they accept, as procedures vary by location.

Your home driver's license must be valid and not suspended or revoked. If your license is expired, you must renew it with your state DMV before explore for an IDP. The IDP cannot be issued on an expired license, and it will not extend the validity of an expired license.

Cost and Validity Period of an International Driving Permit

AAA charges $15 to $20 for a one-year IDP and $30 for a three-year IDP. AATA pricing is similar. These fees are set by each organization and may vary slightly by state or region. There are no government fees or additional charges beyond what the issuing organization quotes you.

A one-year IDP is valid for exactly one year from the date of issue. A three-year IDP is valid for three years. The expiration date is printed on the front cover of the booklet. Once it expires, it is no longer valid, even if your home driver's license is still valid. You must obtain a new IDP if you plan to drive internationally after the expiration date.

The IDP does not extend the validity of your home driver's license, and it does not replace it. If your home license expires before your IDP expires, the IDP becomes invalid because it is only valid when presented with a valid home license. Conversely, if your IDP expires but your home license is still valid, you can drive in your home country but cannot use the IDP abroad.

Countries That Recognize the International Driving Permit

Most countries in Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa recognize the IDP under one of the two international conventions. This includes the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Japan, Australia, Canada, Mexico, and Brazil. However, the list is not complete, and recognition can change. Some countries recognize the IDP but require additional documents, such as a certified translation of your license or proof of insurance.

A few countries do not recognize the IDP at all or have suspended recognition. China, for example, does not recognize the IDP and requires an International Driving Document (IDD) issued by the China Automobile Association instead. Russia and some former Soviet republics have their own requirements. Several countries in the Middle East and North Africa have limited or no recognition.

Before traveling, contact the embassy or consulate of each country you plan to visit, or check the current list maintained by the International Road Federation. Do not assume that because a country is developed or well-traveled that it recognizes the IDP. The safest approach is to obtain both an IDP and a certified translation of your driver's license in the language of the country you are visiting.

How an International Driving Permit Differs from a Foreign Driver's License

An IDP is not a foreign driver's license. A foreign driver's license is a license issued by another country's transportation authority that allows you to drive in that country. An IDP is a translation document that allows you to use your home country's license in other countries.

If you move to another country and plan to stay for an extended period, you will need to obtain a driver's license from that country's transportation authority. You cannot drive on an IDP alone; you must have a valid home country license to accompany it. If you are relocating internationally, research the licensing requirements of your destination country, as many countries require you to exchange your home license for a local one after a certain period of residency.

When You Do Not Need an International Driving Permit

If you are not planning to drive a vehicle in another country, you do not need an IDP. The IDP is only for people who intend to rent a car, drive their own vehicle across a border, or operate a vehicle in a country other than their home country.

If you are traveling as a passenger only, using public transportation, or hiring a driver, an IDP is not necessary. Some travelers obtain an IDP as a precaution even if they are uncertain whether they will drive, since the cost is low and the process is quick. This approach avoids the need to obtain one after arrival if plans change.

Rental car companies sometimes request an IDP even in countries where it is not legally required. Having one on hand can prevent delays or disputes at the rental counter. However, if you are certain you will not drive, the IDP is an optional document.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in another country with just an International Driving Permit and no home license?

No. The IDP is only valid when presented together with your original home country driver's license. If you are stopped by police or involved in an accident and cannot produce your home license, the IDP alone will not satisfy legal requirements. You must carry both documents at all times.

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

In-person applications at AAA offices are usually processed the same day or within a few hours. Mail applications take one to two weeks. If you are traveling soon, visit an AAA office in person to avoid delays. Some offices offer expedited service for an additional fee.

What happens if my International Driving Permit expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP is no longer valid for driving. If your IDP expires during your trip, you can no longer legally drive in that country, even if your home license is still valid. Plan ahead and obtain a new IDP before traveling if your current one is close to expiration.

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am only renting a car for one day?

It depends on the country and rental company. Many rental companies in Europe and Asia request an IDP as a standard practice, even if local law does not require it. Checking with your rental company in advance prevents problems at pickup. If the company requests one and you do not have it, they may refuse to rent to you or charge an additional fee.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is suspended?

No. Your home driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot obtain an IDP. You must resolve the suspension or complete a renewal with your state DMV first.