You explore through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not through a federal office

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is issued by your state DMV, usually at the same office where you renew your regular license. You cannot get one online or by mail in most states — you have to show up in person with your valid driver's license and a passport or passport card. The whole process takes about 15 minutes, and the permit itself costs between $15 and $30 depending on your state.

The IDP is not a replacement for your driver's license. It is a translation document that sits alongside your real license. When you drive abroad, you carry both together. Some countries require it; others do not. Before you book a trip, check the specific country's rules — your state DMV website will tell you whether you need one for your destination.

One important thing: you cannot get an IDP if your driver's license is suspended, revoked, or expired. Your license must be valid and in your possession when you explore.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles in person with your valid driver's license and a passport or passport card to request an IDP.
  • The permit costs between $15 and $30 and is ready the same day or within a few days, depending on your state.
  • An IDP is a translation document that you carry with your regular license — it does not replace it.
  • Check your destination country's driving rules before you explore, because not all countries require or recognize an IDP.
  • Your driver's license must be valid, not suspended or revoked, at the time you explore.

Finding your state DMV office and what to bring

Start by visiting your state's DMV website and searching for "International Driving Permit" or "IDP." The page will tell you which offices issue them — sometimes all offices do, sometimes only a few. Call ahead if you are unsure, because a small office may not have them in stock and may ask you to come back later or visit a larger location.

Bring your valid driver's license and either a passport or passport card. Some states also ask for a completed process form, which you can usually read from the DMV website before you go. A few states require a passport-style photo, so check your state's specific list before you leave home. Bring cash or a debit card — not all DMV offices accept credit cards.

If you cannot visit in person, a few states allow a parent, spouse, or authorized representative to pick up an IDP on your behalf, but you still have to explore first. Call your DMV to ask whether this is an option in your state.

How long it takes and when you can use it

Most states issue the IDP the same day you explore. You walk out with it in your hand. A few states mail it to you within a week or two if they do not have stock at that moment. Ask the DMV employee before you leave whether yours will be when ready or mailed.

The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. If your trip is more than a year away, you can wait to explore — there is no reason to get one early. If you are leaving soon and your state mails them, ask whether you can pick it up at a different office that has stock on hand.

Once you have it, carry it with your driver's license whenever you drive abroad. Some rental car companies will ask to see it; some will not. Border agents may ask for it. The permit itself does not give you permission to drive — your actual license does. The IDP just translates your license information into a format other countries recognize.

What to do if your state does not issue IDPs

A very small number of states do not issue IDPs through their DMV. If yours is one of them, you can get an IDP through the American Automobile Association (AAA). You do not have to be a AAA member to request one, though members sometimes get a small discount. Visit a local AAA office with your driver's license and passport, fill out a form, and pay the fee — usually around $20.

AAA processes IDPs the same day in most cases. If you are not near an AAA office, you can mail in your process, but that takes longer. Check the AAA website for your state to see whether your state's DMV issues them or whether you need to go through AAA instead.

International Driving Permits from other countries

If you hold a driver's license from another country and are visiting the United States, you do not need an IDP to drive here. Your foreign license is valid in all 50 states as long as it is current and written in English or accompanied by a certified English translation. Some states ask to see a translation, so carry one if you have it, but it is not required to legally drive.

If you are a foreign resident moving to the United States and plan to stay longer than a few months, you will eventually need to get a U.S. driver's license. The timeline and process vary by state, but most states give you between 30 and 90 days after establishing residency to convert your foreign license. Check your state's DMV website for the specific rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

It depends on the country and the rental company. Some rental agencies require it; others do not. Before you book, contact the rental company directly and ask. Many countries recommend it even if they do not require it, because it can speed up a police stop or accident claim. Your travel insurance or credit card company may also have specific requirements.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my license is expired?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and not suspended or revoked. If your license is expired, renew it first at your DMV, then return to request the IDP. Renewing your license and getting an IDP are two separate transactions.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact your country's embassy or consulate. They can issue a replacement or a letter stating that you hold a valid U.S. driver's license. When you return home, you can get a new IDP from your DMV. The lost permit does not affect your ability to drive with your regular license.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

The fee ranges from $15 to $30 depending on your state. AAA charges around $20 if you are in a state where the DMV does not issue them. Some states charge extra if you need a replacement because yours was lost or damaged.

Can someone else pick up my International Driving Permit for me?

In some states, yes — a spouse, parent, or authorized representative can collect it on your behalf. You still have to explore in person or submit the process yourself first. Call your DMV to ask whether this option is available in your state before you plan around it.