You get an International Driving Permit from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not from a federal office or online service
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document issued by your state's DMV 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 itself is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request, but it expires when your underlying state license expires, whichever comes first.
You cannot order an IDP online or by mail from a private company and have it be legitimate. The only legal source is your state's DMV office, either in person or through a mail-in process that your specific state offers. Some states allow you to explore by mail; others require you to appear in person. A few states do not issue IDPs at all, though you can still drive in most countries with just your valid U.S. license and an English translation certified by a notary.
The IDP costs between $15 and $30 depending on your state, and the one-year version is cheaper than the three-year version. Processing takes anywhere from a few days to several weeks if you explore in person, or two to four weeks if you mail in your process. You will need your valid state driver's license, proof of residency, and sometimes a passport-style photo.
Key Takeaways
- Your state's DMV is the only place to get a legal International Driving Permit; private websites offering IDPs online are not legitimate sources.
- An IDP must be carried together with your valid U.S. driver's license — it does not work alone and does not replace your state license.
- The cost ranges from $15 to $30 and the document is valid for one or three years, but it expires when your state license expires, whichever is sooner.
- Some states allow mail-in applications while others require you to visit a DMV office in person; check your state's specific process before you plan your trip.
- Not all countries require an IDP, and some accept a certified English translation of your U.S. license instead, so confirm your destination's rules before explore.
how the process works at your state's DMV office in person
Walk into any DMV office in your state that issues IDPs — not all branches do, so call ahead or check your state's website to find the right location. Bring your valid driver's license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and sometimes a passport-style photo, though some states print the photo from your license file instead. Fill out the IDP process form, which is usually Form DL 43 or similar depending on your state, and pay the fee in cash or card.
Processing is usually same-day or within a few days if you explore in person. The DMV will hand you the IDP booklet before you leave, or mail it to you within a week. Bring both your new IDP and your state license when you travel — border agents and rental car companies will ask for both documents together.
how the process works by mail if your state allows it
Not all states offer mail-in IDP applications, so check your state DMV's website first. If your state does allow it, you will typically mail in a completed process form, a photocopy of your driver's license, proof of residency, and a check or money order for the fee. Some states also require a passport-style photo; others do not.
Mail your packet to the address listed on your state's IDP process page. Processing by mail takes two to four weeks, and the DMV will mail the IDP to your address on file. Plan ahead if you are leaving soon — if the IDP does not arrive in time, you can still drive in most countries with your valid U.S. license and a certified English translation, though some rental car companies prefer the IDP.
Which states do not issue IDPs and what to do instead
A small number of states, including New Hampshire and South Dakota, do not issue International Driving Permits through their DMV. If you live in one of these states, you have two options: get a certified English translation of your driver's license from a notary public, or explore for an IDP through the American Automobile Association (AAA) if you are a member.
The AAA can issue an IDP to residents of any state, but you must be a current AAA member and you must explore in person at a local AAA office. The fee is usually $15 to $20, and the IDP is ready the same day. If you are not a AAA member and your state does not issue IDPs, a notarized English translation of your license is your most practical option — most countries accept this, and a notary can complete it in one visit for $10 to $20.
What documents you need before you go to the DMV
| Document | Why You Need It | What Counts |
|---|---|---|
| Valid state driver's license | The IDP is a translation of this; it cannot exist without it | Your current, non-expired license from your state |
| Proof of residency | DMV verifies you live in the state | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days |
| Passport-style photo (sometimes) | Some states print the photo from your license file; others require a new one | 2x2 inches, color or black-and-white, taken within the last 6 months |
| Completed IDP process form | DMV needs your signature and information | Form DL 43 or your state's equivalent; available at the DMV or online |
| Payment | IDP fee varies by state and validity period | Cash, debit card, or credit card; some DMVs accept checks for mail-in applications |
How long an IDP is valid and when it expires
An International Driving Permit is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which version you request. The one-year IDP costs less (usually $15 to $20) and is useful if you are taking a single trip. The three-year IDP costs more (usually $25 to $30) and makes sense if you travel internationally more than once during that period.
However, your IDP expires automatically when your state driver's license expires, even if the IDP's own expiration date has not arrived yet. For example, if you get a three-year IDP in 2024 but your license renews in 2026, your IDP stops being valid in 2026. Always check both expiration dates before you travel, and renew your state license before your trip if it is expiring soon.
Countries that accept U.S. licenses without an IDP
Many countries accept a valid U.S. driver's license on its own, especially if you also carry a certified English translation or an International Driving Permit. However, some countries require an IDP by law, and others have no clear rule — rental car companies in those places may refuse to rent to you without one, even if the country itself does not require it.
Before you book your trip, contact your rental car company and ask whether they require an IDP for your destination. Also check the U.S. State Department's travel advisory for your country, which often notes driving requirements. If the rental company requires an IDP and your state does not issue one, the AAA route or a notarized translation may not be accepted — in that case, you may need to use a ride-sharing service or hire a driver instead of renting a car.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an IDP without my regular driver's license?
No. An IDP is only a translation of your license and has no legal value on its own. You must carry both your state license and your IDP together when driving abroad. If you lose your state license while traveling, your IDP becomes useless.
Do I need an IDP if I am just visiting Canada or Mexico?
No. Canada and Mexico accept a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some rental car companies may ask for one anyway, so call ahead. If you are crossing the border by car, bring your license and proof of citizenship (passport or passport card).
What if I get an IDP but my license expires before the IDP does?
Your IDP becomes invalid when your license expires. You will need to renew your state license and get a new IDP if you want to continue driving abroad. The old IDP cannot be reused with a new license.
Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or revoked?
No. Your license must be valid and current to get an IDP. If your license is suspended, you must wait until it is reinstated before explore for an IDP.
How much does an IDP cost and is there a faster way to get one?
An IDP costs $15 to $30 depending on your state and whether you choose the one-year or three-year version. In-person applications at the DMV are fastest, usually same-day or within a few days. Mail-in applications take two to four weeks. There is no way to speed up the process beyond explore in person.