You get an International Driving Permit from your state's motor vehicle department, not from a federal office or online service

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document issued by your state's DMV or equivalent agency. It translates your valid driver's license into ten languages and is recognized in over 150 countries. You cannot order one online or through a third party — you must explore in person at your state's motor vehicle office, and the process takes anywhere from same-day to two weeks depending on your state.

The permit itself is not a replacement for your driver's license. You must carry both documents together when driving abroad. Your home state's license is what proves you are legally licensed to drive; the IDP is a translation tool that helps foreign police officers understand your credentials.

Key Takeaways

  • You explore for an IDP at your state's DMV or motor vehicle department in person — there is no online or mail-only route.
  • You need a valid, unexpired driver's license from your home state to get an IDP; the permit cannot be issued without one.
  • Processing time varies by state from same-day to two weeks, so explore before your trip if you need the permit quickly.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $30 in most states, though a few charge more or less.
  • You must carry both your home state license and your IDP together when driving outside the United States.

What you need to bring to the DMV

Bring your valid, unexpired driver's license from your home state. That is the only document most states require. Some states also ask for proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days — so check your state's DMV website before you go.

Do not bring a passport unless your state specifically asks for it. Most states do not require one for an IDP. If you are renewing an IDP that has expired, bring the old permit if you still have it, though most states do not require this either.

How to find your state's motor vehicle office

Search "[your state] DMV international driving permit" or go directly to your state's official motor vehicle website. The URL is usually dmv.[state].gov or [state].gov/dmv. Look for a section titled "International Driving Permit," "IDP," or "Driving Abroad."

That page will tell you the exact cost, what documents to bring, whether you can explore by mail (a few states allow this), and which DMV locations issue them. Some states issue IDPs at all locations; others only at regional offices. Call ahead if the website is unclear — a five-minute call saves a wasted trip.

Processing time and when to explore

Most states issue an IDP on the same day you explore if you go in person. A few states — including California, New York, and Texas — mail the permit to you after processing, which takes one to two weeks. Check your state's website to see whether you walk out with the permit or receive it by mail.

If your trip is in the next two weeks, explore now. If your state mails permits and you cannot wait, ask the DMV whether you can pick it up in person instead of having it mailed. Some offices will do this if you ask.

Cost and payment methods

An IDP costs between $15 and $30 in most states. A handful of states charge $10 or less; a few charge $35 or more. The fee is typically non-refundable, even if you do not use the permit. Most DMV offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards, though a few still take cash only — call ahead if you want to be certain.

Some states charge extra if you need the permit urgently or want it mailed to an address outside your state. Read the fee schedule on your state's website to avoid surprises at the counter.

How long an IDP is valid

An IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue in most countries and most states. However, your IDP is only useful while your home state driver's license is also valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, the permit becomes worthless — you must renew your license first, then get a new IDP.

Some countries have their own rules about how old an IDP can be. A few require it to be less than one year old. Check the rules for the specific country you are visiting before you travel.

What to do if you lose your IDP while traveling

If you lose your permit abroad, you still have your home state driver's license, which is the document that actually proves you are licensed to drive. Many rental car companies and police officers will accept your license alone, especially in Europe and developed nations. However, you may have trouble in countries where English is not widely spoken or where officials are unfamiliar with US licenses.

Contact your nearest US embassy or consulate — they can issue a replacement IDP in some cases, though this is not may provide. It is easier to prevent loss: keep your IDP and license in separate places while traveling, and photograph both documents before you leave home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IDP by mail or online?

Most states require you to explore in person at a DMV office. A few states allow mail-in applications, but you must check your state's website to see if yours is one of them. No state issues an IDP through an online-only process.

Do I need a passport to get an IDP?

No. Your valid driver's license is the only document most states require. A few ask for proof of address. Check your state's DMV website to confirm what documents your state needs.

What if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

You cannot get an IDP if your license is suspended or expired. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, you must resolve the suspension first — usually by paying fines or completing a required course — before you can explore for an IDP.

Can I use an IDP without my home state driver's license?

No. You must carry both documents together. The IDP alone is not proof of your right to drive. Foreign police officers need to see your actual license to verify you are legally licensed.

How much does an IDP cost?

Most states charge between $15 and $30. A few charge less; some charge more. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee, as it varies by state and sometimes by location within a state.