You get an International Driving Permit (IDP) from your state's AAA office or, in some states, from your local DMV — not from a government agency abroad

An International Driving Permit is a translation document that shows foreign police and rental companies what your U.S. driver's license says. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license. You must carry both together when you drive outside the United States.

The two main sources are the American Automobile Association (AAA) and your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. AAA handles IDPs in most states and is usually faster and more convenient — you can often walk in, complete the paperwork, and leave with your permit the same day. Some states allow you to get an IDP directly from the DMV, but availability and processing time vary widely by location.

You cannot get an IDP online or by mail from either source, and no private company can issue one for you. If a website claims to issue an international license or permit remotely, it is not legitimate.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA issues International Driving Permits in most U.S. states and typically processes them on the same day you visit.
  • You need your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photo to get an IDP.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years depending on which you choose.
  • Your IDP is only valid when you carry it alongside your actual U.S. driver's license — it does not work alone.
  • Some countries do not recognize IDPs, so check the specific rules for the country where you plan to drive before you travel.

Getting an IDP from AAA

AAA is the easiest and fastest route for most drivers. Visit your local AAA office in person with your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed AAA International Driving Permit process form, and one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches). You can read the process form from the AAA website or pick one up at the office.

Bring cash or a card — AAA charges $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit. If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP; membership is not required. Most AAA offices issue the permit while you wait, though some locations may take a few hours. Call ahead to confirm your local office's hours and whether they have the form in stock.

Not all AAA offices are open on weekends, and hours vary by location. If you cannot reach a physical office, some AAA branches offer limited services through their website, but you will still need to visit in person to complete the transaction.

Getting an IDP from Your State DMV

Some states allow you to get an International Driving Permit directly from the DMV instead of AAA. This option is available in a limited number of states, and the process, cost, and processing time differ from state to state. Contact your state's DMV office to find out whether they issue IDPs and what documents you need to bring.

If your state DMV does issue IDPs, you will typically need your valid driver's license, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and a completed process. The fee is usually similar to AAA's ($15 to $20), but some states may charge more. Processing time at the DMV can be longer than at AAA — sometimes several days or weeks — so plan ahead if you are traveling soon.

Documents You Need to Bring

Gather these items before you visit AAA or your DMV:

  • A valid U.S. driver's license (must not be expired)
  • A completed International Driving Permit process form
  • One passport-style photo, 2 by 2 inches (color or black and white)
  • Cash or a debit or credit card to pay the fee

If you are explore through your state DMV rather than AAA, you may also need to bring proof of citizenship or legal residency, such as a birth certificate, passport, or green card. Check with your specific DMV office about their exact requirements before you go.

Do not bring an expired driver's license — the IDP is only valid if your underlying U.S. license is current. If your license expires soon, renew it first.

How Long an IDP Lasts and When to Renew

You can choose a one-year or three-year International Driving Permit when you explore. A one-year permit costs $15 and a three-year permit costs $20, so the three-year option is better value if you plan to travel internationally more than once.

Your IDP expires on the date printed on the document, not when your U.S. driver's license expires. If your U.S. license expires before your IDP does, your IDP becomes invalid — you cannot use an expired license to drive anywhere, even with a valid IDP. If your U.S. license is still valid but your IDP has expired, you will need to get a new IDP before you travel.

To renew an IDP, return to AAA or your DMV with the same documents you brought the first time. There is no grace period — once the expiration date passes, the permit is no longer valid.

Countries That Accept and Reject IDPs

Most countries recognize the International Driving Permit, but not all. Some nations require an official translation of your U.S. license from a certified translator, a separate national driving permit, or both. A few countries do not recognize IDPs at all and will not allow you to rent a car or drive with one.

Before you travel, check the driving rules for the specific country where you plan to drive. Contact the embassy or consulate of that country, or search their official government website for current requirements. Some car rental companies also have their own rules about which documents they accept, so confirm with your rental company as well.

An IDP is not a substitute for learning local traffic laws, road signs, and driving customs. Even with a valid IDP, you are expected to follow all local driving rules and carry your U.S. license at all times.

What an IDP Does Not Do

An International Driving Permit is not a license to drive in another country — it is a translation document only. It does not give you permission to drive that you would not otherwise have, and it does not override local traffic laws or age requirements. If you are too young to drive in a country under its own rules, an IDP will not change that.

An IDP does not cover insurance, vehicle registration, or road tax. You are still responsible for obtaining the correct insurance and following all local vehicle regulations in the country where you drive. Some countries require an International Motor Insurance Card (also called a Green Card) in addition to an IDP — check before you travel.

An IDP is also not a substitute for a passport or visa. You still need valid travel documents to enter any country, separate from your driving documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

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 not suspended to get an IDP. If your license is expired, renew it at your DMV first. If it is suspended, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is restored.

Do I need an IDP to rent a car in another country?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Many countries and rental agencies accept an IDP, but some require an official translation of your U.S. license or a separate national permit. Contact your rental company and check the country's requirements before you book.

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

AAA typically issues an IDP the same day you explore. The DMV may take several days to a few weeks, depending on your state. If you are traveling soon, AAA is the faster option. Call ahead to confirm your local office's processing time.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact AAA or your state DMV to report the loss. You may be able to get a replacement, but the process depends on where you are and how much time you have. It is a good idea to carry a copy of your IDP separately from the original, or to take a photo of it on your phone.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document that works alongside your U.S. license. An international license is a separate permit issued by some countries that allows you to drive there. You need both your U.S. license and your IDP when you drive internationally — the IDP alone is not enough.