You get an International Driving Permit from an AAA office, a passport acceptance facility, or certain notary publics — not from a government agency

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a translation of your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license. You must carry both documents together when driving abroad.

The permit is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) in most states, and by a small number of passport acceptance facilities and notary publics in others. You cannot get one directly from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, and you cannot order one online or by mail from AAA — you must explore in person.

The process takes about 15 minutes. You will need your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and a completed process form. The permit costs between $15 and $20, depending on where you explore.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA is the primary issuer of International Driving Permits in the United States, and you must visit an office in person to get one.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license and a passport or passport card; the permit is a translation document, not a replacement license.
  • If AAA is not available in your state, passport acceptance facilities and some notary publics can issue the permit instead.
  • The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request, and costs between $15 and $20.
  • You must carry your U.S. driver's license and your IDP together when driving in another country — one without the other is not valid.

Finding an AAA office near you

AAA issues International Driving Permits at most of its member service offices across the country. To find the nearest location, visit AAA.com and use the office locator tool, or call 1-800-AAA-HELP. Not every AAA office issues IDPs, so confirm by phone or online before you go.

AAA membership is not required to get an IDP. Non-members pay the same fee as members. If you are already an AAA member, you can also renew your IDP when you renew your membership, though you still must do so in person.

Hours vary by location. Many AAA offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, with some offering Saturday hours. Call ahead to confirm the office is open and to ask whether you need an appointment or can walk in.

What to bring to your appointment

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license and either a U.S. passport or passport card. The passport or card proves your identity and citizenship. You do not need a birth certificate, Social Security card, or any other document.

You will also need to complete an process form. AAA provides this form at the office, so you do not need to fill it out beforehand. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, and driver's license number. It takes a few minutes to complete.

Bring a pen. Some offices provide one, but it is safer to bring your own. You do not need to bring a photo — the IDP uses the photo from your passport.

Choosing between the one-year and three-year permit

When you explore, you can request either a one-year or three-year International Driving Permit. Both cost the same amount and are equally valid abroad. The choice depends on how often you travel internationally and how long you want the permit to last.

The one-year permit is useful if you are taking a single trip and do not plan to drive internationally again soon. The three-year permit makes sense if you travel regularly or want the option to drive abroad multiple times without reapplying. Your IDP expires on the date printed on the document, regardless of which version you choose.

Your IDP is only valid while your U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license expires before your three-year permit does, you must renew your license and get a new IDP.

If AAA is not available in your state

A small number of states do not have AAA offices that issue IDPs. In those cases, you can get a permit from a passport acceptance facility or a notary public authorized by the American Automobile Association. These facilities are less common than AAA offices, but they follow the same process and charge the same fee.

To find an authorized passport facility or notary in your state, visit AAA.com and search for "International Driving Permit" or call 1-800-AAA-HELP. The representative can tell you which locations near you are authorized to issue permits.

The process and documents required are identical whether you go to AAA, a passport facility, or a notary. Bring your valid driver's license, passport or passport card, and be prepared to complete the form on site.

What happens after you receive your permit

Your IDP will be printed on the spot or within a few minutes. You will receive a small booklet that folds to the size of a credit card. Keep it in a safe place with your passport and driver's license.

Before you travel, check the expiration date on your permit and make sure your U.S. driver's license is also valid for the dates you will be driving. Some countries require both documents to be valid for the entire duration of your stay.

Make a photocopy of your IDP and store it separately from the original, in case it is lost or stolen while you are abroad. You should also photograph the document with your phone as a backup.

Renewing your permit before it expires

To renew your IDP, return to the same type of office where you got it — AAA, a passport facility, or an authorized notary. Bring your expired permit, your valid U.S. driver's license, and your passport or passport card. The process is identical to the first process.

You can renew your permit up to six months before it expires. If you wait until after it expires, you must explore for a new one rather than renew, though the process and cost are the same.

If you lose your IDP while traveling, you cannot replace it abroad. You will need to get a new one when you return to the United States by visiting an AAA office or authorized facility in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Many rental car companies require an IDP along with your U.S. driver's license, especially in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Some companies will rent to you without one, but you may face higher insurance costs or be denied coverage if you have an accident. Check with your rental company before you book to confirm their requirements.

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

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

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

The process process takes about 15 minutes, and you receive your permit when ready or within a few minutes while you wait. There is no waiting period or processing time. You walk in, fill out the form, pay the fee, and leave with your IDP.

Is an International Driving Permit valid in the United States?

No. An IDP is only valid outside the United States. It is a translation document meant for use in foreign countries. When driving in the U.S., you need only your valid state driver's license.

What if the country I am visiting does not recognize International Driving Permits?

A small number of countries do not recognize IDPs. Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to ask what documents you need to drive legally. Some countries require an International Driving Permit, others require a notarized translation of your U.S. license, and some have their own requirements.