You get an International Driving Permit (IDP) from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not from a federal office or online service
An International Driving Permit is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together when driving abroad. The IDP is issued only by your state DMV, and there is no online or mail-order shortcut. You must visit in person or use your state's specific mail-in process if one exists.
The IDP is governed by the United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals, which means the document itself looks the same in every country that recognizes it. However, the process to obtain one, the fee, and the timeline vary by state. Some states issue the IDP on the spot during a visit; others mail it to you within one to two weeks.
You cannot obtain an IDP from a private company, an online service, or a travel agency, no matter what they claim. The only legal source is your state DMV. Some websites and travel services advertise IDP services for inflated fees — these are scams or unnecessary middlemen.
Key Takeaways
- Your state DMV is the only place to obtain a legal International Driving Permit; private companies offering this service are not authorized.
- You must have a valid, unexpired state driver's license before you can request an IDP.
- Most states charge between $15 and $30 for an IDP, and the document is valid for one to three years depending on your state.
- Some states issue the IDP when ready during your visit; others mail it within one to two weeks, so plan ahead if you have a travel date.
- You must carry your state driver's license and your IDP together when driving in a foreign country; the IDP alone is not valid.
How to find your state DMV's IDP process
Start by visiting your state's DMV website and searching for "International Driving Permit" or "IDP." Most state DMVs have a dedicated page that lists the exact requirements, fees, and whether you can obtain the IDP by mail, in person, or both. The page will also tell you how long the IDP is valid in your state — this ranges from one year to three years.
If your state's website does not have clear instructions, call the DMV's main customer service line and ask specifically: "How do I get an International Driving Permit, and can I do it by mail or must I visit in person?" Write down the answer, including any document requirements and the current fee. DMV staff can also tell you whether the IDP is issued the same day or mailed later.
Do not rely on third-party travel websites or apps that claim to handle IDP requests. These services either charge you extra to submit paperwork to your DMV on your behalf, or they are fraudulent. Going directly to your state DMV costs less and takes the same amount of time.
What documents and information you need to bring or submit
You will need your valid state driver's license and proof of your current address. Most states accept a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Some states also require a completed process form, which you can read from the DMV website or fill out on arrival at the office.
A few states require a passport or passport card to verify your identity, especially if your driver's license does not show your date of birth clearly. Check your state's specific list before you visit or mail in your request. If you are unsure whether a document meets the requirement, call the DMV ahead of time rather than arriving unprepared.
You do not need a new photo for an IDP — the document uses the photo from your current driver's license. You do not need to provide travel itineraries, proof of a rental car reservation, or any other travel documentation. The DMV issues the IDP based solely on your valid license and identity.
In-person visits versus mail-in requests
| Method | Timeline | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| In-person at DMV office | Same day or within 1–2 weeks, depending on state | You have time before your trip and want to confirm receipt when ready |
| Mail-in (if your state offers it) | 1–3 weeks, plus mail delivery time | You cannot visit an office or prefer not to wait in line |
| Third-party service (not recommended) | Same as mail-in, but with extra fees | Never — these are unnecessary middlemen or scams |
If your state offers mail-in service, the DMV website will provide a mailing address and a checklist of what to include. Typically you send your completed process, a copy of your driver's license (front and back), proof of address, and a check or money order for the fee. Use certified mail or a tracked service so you can confirm delivery.
If you are visiting an office in person, arrive early or check whether your state uses an online appointment system. Many DMVs now require you to book a time slot in advance, especially after the pandemic. Arriving without an appointment can mean a long wait or being turned away.
Fees and validity periods by state
International Driving Permit fees range from $15 to $30, and most states charge closer to $20. The fee is a one-time payment; you do not renew an IDP the way you renew a driver's license. Instead, when your IDP expires, you request a new one if you plan to drive abroad again.
The validity period also varies: some states issue an IDP valid for one year, others for three years. A few states tie the IDP expiration to your driver's license expiration date. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee and validity period, because these details affect whether you need a new IDP before your next international trip.
If your IDP expires while you are abroad, it is no longer valid. You cannot renew it from outside the United States. If you are planning a long trip or multiple trips over several years, ask the DMV whether it makes sense to request a longer-validity IDP or to wait until closer to your next trip.
Common mistakes that delay or prevent IDP issuance
The most common error is submitting an expired or suspended driver's license. Your state license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP until you renew or restore your license first.
Another frequent mistake is providing an address that does not match your driver's license. If you recently moved, update your driver's license address before requesting an IDP. Some states will not issue an IDP if the address on your process does not match the address on your license.
Waiting until the last minute is also risky. If you are leaving in two weeks and your state mails IDPs, you may not receive it in time. Some travelers assume they can obtain an IDP at the airport or border — you cannot. Plan to request your IDP at least three weeks before your trip, or sooner if your state's processing time is longer.
What to do if your state's DMV website is unclear or unhelpful
Call the DMV's customer service line directly and ask to speak with someone who handles International Driving Permits. Have your driver's license number and current address ready. Ask for the exact fee, the required documents, the processing time, and whether you can do it by mail. Request that they email or mail you a summary so you have it in writing.
If the DMV staff member gives you conflicting information, ask to speak with a supervisor or request that the answer be documented in writing. This protects you if there is a problem later and gives you proof of what you were told.
Some states have regional DMV offices with different hours or services. If your local office does not handle IDPs, the DMV website or phone line will direct you to the office that does. Do not assume all offices are the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is expired?
No. Your state driver's license must be valid and unexpired. If your license has expired, renew it first at your DMV, then request the IDP. Some states allow you to renew your license and request an IDP during the same visit.
How long does an International Driving Permit last?
It depends on your state. Most IDPs are valid for one to three years from the date of issue. Check your state DMV's website or call to find out the specific validity period. The IDP is not tied to your driver's license renewal — you may need a new IDP even if your license is still valid.
Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car abroad?
Many rental car companies require an IDP along with your state driver's license, especially in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Some companies will rent to you with only your state license, but the IDP is widely recommended and often required by local law. Check with your rental company before your trip.
What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?
You cannot replace it while abroad. If you lose it, you still have your state driver's license, which is valid for driving in most countries. Contact your state DMV after you return home to request a replacement IDP. Some states charge a replacement fee; others do not.
Can I get an International Driving Permit online or from a travel agency?
No. Only your state DMV can issue a legal International Driving Permit. Travel agencies and online services that claim to provide IDPs are either charging you extra to submit paperwork to your DMV, or they are fraudulent. Go directly to your state DMV to avoid extra fees and scams.