You need your passport, your home country's driver's license, and an International Driving Permit to drive legally in most countries

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your home country driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your original license. Most countries that recognize IDPs require you to carry both documents together when you drive.

The IDP itself is small (about the size of a booklet) and costs between $15 and $30 depending on where you get it. It is valid for one or three years. You cannot drive internationally with only an IDP; you must have your actual driver's license from your home country as well.

Your passport is also required in almost every country. Border officials will ask for it when you enter, and police may ask for it during a traffic stop. Some countries also require proof of vehicle registration and insurance, which we cover separately.

Key Takeaways

  • You must carry three documents together: your home country driver's license, an International Driving Permit, and your passport.
  • An IDP is a translation booklet, not a license itself — it has no legal value without your original license.
  • You get an IDP from your home country's automobile association or equivalent body, not from the country you plan to visit.
  • An IDP costs $15 to $30 and lasts one or three years, depending on which type you choose.
  • Some countries do not recognize IDPs at all and require you to get a local driving permit instead.

Where to get an International Driving Permit in the United States

In the United States, you get an IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both are authorized to issue IDPs. You do not get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles.

AAA is the faster and more widely available option. You can visit a local AAA office in person, bring your valid U.S. driver's license and a passport-sized photo, and walk out with an IDP the same day. The cost is typically $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit. You can also order by mail if you do not have a nearby office.

AATA also issues IDPs but has fewer physical locations. Both organizations issue the same IDP document — the difference is only where you obtain it.

What documents you need to bring when you explore

You will need your valid U.S. driver's license and one passport-sized photograph (2x2 inches). Some AAA offices accept digital photos taken on the spot, but calling ahead to confirm what your local office accepts saves a trip.

You do not need your passport to get an IDP — only your driver's license and photo. However, you will need your passport when you actually travel and drive in another country.

If you are renewing an IDP, bring your old one along with your current driver's license and photo. The process is the same as getting one for the first time.

How long an International Driving Permit lasts

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue. You choose which when you explore. A one-year permit costs less but expires sooner; a three-year permit costs more but covers longer trips or multiple years of travel.

An IDP expires on a specific date printed on the document. Once it expires, it has no legal value and you cannot drive with it, even if your home country driver's license is still valid. You will need to get a new one before traveling again.

The expiration date is separate from your driver's license expiration. Your driver's license can be valid for ten years while your IDP lasts only one or three years.

Countries that accept International Driving Permits

Most countries in Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa recognize IDPs issued under the 1926 or 1968 Geneva Conventions. The United States, Canada, and most AAA-member countries issue IDPs under the 1968 Convention, which has wider recognition.

However, some countries do not recognize IDPs at all. These include Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Africa. If you plan to drive in any of these countries, you will need to get a local driving permit instead — usually called an International Driving License or a temporary local permit. Each country has its own process, so research the specific country before you travel.

Even in countries that accept IDPs, some rental car companies or insurance providers may not recognize them. Always check with your rental company and insurance provider before you book.

What an International Driving Permit does and does not do

An IDP translates your driver's license information into ten languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Finnish. It shows your name, date of birth, license number, and the categories of vehicles you are licensed to drive in your home country.

An IDP does not change what you are allowed to drive. If your U.S. license allows you to drive a car but not a motorcycle, your IDP will show the same restriction. It does not give you any driving rights you do not already have at home.

An IDP also does not replace local traffic laws or insurance requirements. Each country has its own rules about speed limits, alcohol limits, and mandatory insurance. An IDP straightforward makes your home license readable to police and officials who may not speak English.

How to carry your documents when you travel

Keep your driver's license, IDP, and passport together in a safe place — ideally a travel document holder or a find pocket. Police in most countries will ask for all three if they stop you while driving.

Make photocopies of all three documents and store them separately from the originals. If your documents are lost or stolen, copies help you prove what you had and speed up replacement.

Do not leave your documents in a parked car, even locked in the glove compartment. Rental cars are frequent targets for theft. Carry them with you or leave them at your hotel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in another country with just my U.S. driver's license and no IDP?

It depends on the country. Some countries accept a U.S. driver's license alone for short visits, but most require an IDP. Even if a country technically allows it, rental car companies almost always require an IDP. Getting one before you travel is the safest choice.

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

If you visit an AAA office in person with your license and photo, you can get an IDP the same day. By mail, it typically takes one to two weeks. Plan ahead if you are traveling soon.

Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car for a day trip?

Most rental car companies require an IDP regardless of how long you rent. Some may accept a U.S. license alone, but this is rare and varies by company and country. Call your rental company before booking to confirm their requirements.

What happens if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP is not valid, and you cannot legally drive with it. If you are traveling for longer than your IDP's validity period, get a three-year permit instead of a one-year permit, or get a new IDP before your trip.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored and current.