You get an International Driving Permit from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not from an international body
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document issued by your state DMV that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license, and you cannot drive on it alone — you must carry it alongside your current, valid U.S. driver's license. The IDP exists because some countries' police and rental car companies recognize it as proof that you hold a valid license in your home country.
You explore for an IDP in person at your state's DMV office, the same place you renew your license. The process takes minutes, costs between $15 and $30 depending on your state, and the permit is valid for one or three years. You do not need to pass a test, provide medical records, or prove you plan to travel — the IDP is straightforward a translation document attached to the license you already hold.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) also issues IDPs to its members at AAA offices nationwide, and the process is identical to going through the DMV. If you are a AAA member, this is often faster because AAA offices have shorter wait times than many DMV locations.
Key Takeaways
- An International Driving Permit is issued by your state DMV or a local AAA office and must be used alongside your valid U.S. driver's license, never alone.
- The IDP costs $15 to $30, takes minutes to obtain, and requires no test or medical exam — only your current license and a completed process form.
- You explore in person at a DMV office or AAA location; there is no online process or mail-in option for first-time IDPs.
- An IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which option you choose and your state's rules, and you can renew it before expiration without reapplying from scratch.
- Some countries do not recognize IDPs at all, so check the specific rules for the country you plan to visit before you travel.
how the process works at your state DMV
Visit your state's DMV website and search for "International Driving Permit" to find the process form and the list of offices that issue them. Not every DMV branch issues IDPs — some states concentrate this service at regional offices — so confirm the location before you go.
Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and the completed IDP process form. Some states accept the form online and let you print it before you arrive; others hand you the form at the counter. Bring cash or a debit card because not all DMV offices accept credit cards. The fee varies by state: California charges $20, New York charges $20, Texas charges $20, and Florida charges $15. Check your state's DMV site for the exact amount.
The DMV will review your process, take your photo if required, and hand you the IDP on the spot. The entire process takes 10 to 20 minutes if the office is not busy. Your IDP will be valid for either one or three years — your state determines which option is available, and you choose at the time of process.
Getting an IDP through AAA
If you are a current AAA member, you can obtain an IDP at any AAA office without visiting the DMV. The process, fee, and documents required are the same as the DMV route. AAA offices are often less crowded than DMV branches, and many stay open on Saturdays, which makes this option faster for people who cannot visit the DMV during business hours.
Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-style photo, your AAA membership card, and the completed process form. AAA will issue your IDP on the spot. If you are not a AAA member, you can join at the same visit and then obtain your IDP when ready. AAA membership costs vary by region but typically runs $50 to $150 per year.
AAA also offers mail renewal for IDPs that are expiring soon, which the DMV does not always offer. If your IDP is within 60 days of expiration, you can mail your renewal process, photo, and fee to your local AAA office and receive a new permit by mail.
What documents and photos you need
You need a valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and the process form. The photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. You can take this photo at any pharmacy with a photo service, at a UPS Store, or at a professional photographer — the cost is usually $5 to $15.
Some states require you to sign the process in front of the DMV or AAA staff member; others let you sign it beforehand. Check your state's specific rules on the DMV website before you go. If you are under 18, you may need a parent or guardian to sign the process, though this varies by state.
Do not bring your passport unless your state's DMV specifically asks for it on the process form. The IDP is tied to your driver's license, not your passport, so the license is the only ID document you need.
How long an IDP is valid and how to renew it
An International Driving Permit is valid for one or three years, depending on which validity period your state offers and which you choose at the time of process. Some states offer only the one-year option; others let you choose. Check your state's DMV website to see what is available.
You can renew your IDP before it expires by returning to the DMV or AAA office with the same documents: your valid driver's license, a new passport-style photo, and the renewal process form. The fee is the same as the original process. If you renew through AAA and your IDP is expiring within 60 days, you can mail in your renewal instead of visiting in person.
If your IDP expires while you are traveling, it is no longer valid. You cannot renew it overseas — you must wait until you return to the United States and visit a DMV or AAA office in person.
Countries that recognize IDPs and those that do not
Most countries in Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa recognize the International Driving Permit as a valid translation of your U.S. license. However, some countries do not recognize it at all, and a few require additional documents even if they do accept the IDP.
Before you travel, visit the U.S. State Department website or contact the embassy of the country you plan to visit and ask whether they recognize the International Driving Permit for car rentals and driving. Some countries accept the IDP but require you to also carry an official translation of your license from a certified translator. Others require an IDP plus a notarized copy of your license. A few countries, including Australia and New Zealand, do not recognize the IDP and instead require you to obtain a local driving permit or use only your U.S. license with a certified English translation.
Rental car companies have their own rules separate from the country's laws. Some rental agencies worldwide will rent to you with only your U.S. license and IDP; others require an IDP plus a credit card in your name plus a passport. Call the rental company before you book to confirm what documents they need.
Cost breakdown and payment methods
The fee for an International Driving Permit ranges from $15 to $30 depending on your state. Most states charge $20. If you obtain the IDP through AAA, the fee is the same as the DMV, but you may also pay AAA membership dues if you are not already a member.
| Route | Fee | Payment Methods | Time to Receive |
|---|---|---|---|
| State DMV (in person) | $15–$30 | Cash, debit card, check (varies by state) | Same day |
| AAA office (in person) | $15–$30 | Cash, debit card, credit card | Same day |
| AAA mail renewal | $15–$30 | Check or credit card | 5–10 business days |
The IDP itself is a small booklet that costs nothing to produce — the fee covers the DMV or AAA's administrative work in issuing it. There are no hidden fees, no processing charges, and no expedited options. You pay once at the time of process and receive the permit when ready if you explore in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an International Driving Permit without a valid U.S. driver's license?
No. The IDP is a translation of your existing U.S. license, so you must hold a valid, unexpired driver's license from your state to obtain one. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored or renewed.
Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car abroad?
It depends on the country and the rental company. Most rental agencies in Europe and many other regions prefer or require an IDP alongside your U.S. license. Some countries do not recognize the IDP at all. Contact the rental company and the country's embassy before you book to confirm what documents they need.
Can I explore for an International Driving Permit online or by mail?
No. You must explore in person at a DMV office or AAA location. You cannot submit the process online or by mail for a first-time IDP. AAA does offer mail renewal for IDPs that are expiring soon, but only if you have held an IDP before.
What happens if my International Driving Permit expires while I am traveling?
An expired IDP is no longer valid for driving or renting a car. You cannot renew it overseas — you must return to the United States and visit a DMV or AAA office in person. Plan ahead and renew your IDP before you travel if it is expiring soon.
Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?
No. An IDP is a translation document that must be carried with your valid U.S. driver's license. It is not a separate license and does not allow you to drive without your U.S. license. Some countries issue their own international licenses, but the U.S. does not — the IDP is the closest equivalent.