You get an International Driving Permit from your state's DMV or an authorized AAA office
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it is a companion document that proves you hold a valid license in your home country. You cannot get one without already holding a current U.S. driver's license.
The two places that issue IDPs are your state's Department of Motor Vehicles and the American Automobile Association (AAA). Which one you use depends on where you live and how quickly you need the permit. Both are legitimate; neither is "official" in a way the other is not.
You will need your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-style photo, and payment. The whole process takes minutes in person, or a few days by mail. Most people can get one within a week.
Key Takeaways
- Your state's DMV and AAA are the only two sources for International Driving Permits in the United States.
- You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP; the permit cannot stand alone.
- In-person service at AAA or your DMV usually takes 15 to 30 minutes and costs between $15 and $30.
- Mail-in service through your DMV typically takes one to two weeks and may cost slightly less than in-person service.
- An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and does not extend your U.S. license expiration date.
Getting an IDP through your state DMV
Every state's DMV issues International Driving Permits. You can explore in person at any DMV office in your state, or by mail if your state offers that option. In-person service is faster — most offices complete the process and issue the permit the same day.
To explore, bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed IDP process form (your DMV website will have this), one passport-style photo (usually 2x2 inches), and payment. The cost varies by state but typically ranges from $15 to $25. Some states charge extra if you explore by mail.
The main drawback of the DMV route is wait time. Many DMV offices have long lines, and you may need to make an appointment. If you are explore close to your travel date, this can be risky. Check your state's DMV website to see if you can schedule ahead or explore by mail.
Getting an IDP through AAA
The American Automobile Association (AAA) issues International Driving Permits at its local offices nationwide. If you are a AAA member, the process is usually faster than the DMV because AAA offices typically have shorter wait times. You do not have to be a member to get an IDP from AAA, but members sometimes receive a small discount.
Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed AAA IDP process form, one passport-style photo, and payment. AAA charges between $20 and $30 depending on your location. Most AAA offices issue the permit on the spot, usually within 15 to 30 minutes.
AAA also offers mail-in service if you cannot visit an office in person. You send your documents and payment to your local AAA office, and they mail the permit back to you. This typically takes five to ten business days. Find your nearest AAA office on their website to confirm they issue IDPs and check their hours.
What to bring and what it costs
| Item | DMV | AAA |
|---|---|---|
| Valid U.S. driver's license | Required | Required |
| Completed IDP process | Required | Required |
| Passport-style photo (2x2 inches) | Required | Required |
| Payment | $15–$25 (varies by state) | $20–$30 (varies by location) |
| In-person processing time | Same day (after wait) | 15–30 minutes |
| Mail-in processing time | 1–2 weeks (if available) | 5–10 business days |
Both the DMV and AAA accept cash and card payment. Some offices may have restrictions on payment methods, so call ahead if you want to confirm. If you are explore by mail, check whether your state or AAA office accepts checks or requires a money order.
How to prepare your process
Before you go to the DMV or AAA, read and fill out the IDP process form. The DMV form is available on your state's DMV website. The AAA form is available on AAA's website or at any AAA office. Both forms are short — usually one page — and ask for basic information: your name, address, driver's license number, and date of birth.
You will also need a passport-style photo. This is a color photo, 2x2 inches, taken against a plain white or light background. Your face should fill most of the frame and be clearly visible. You can get passport photos at many places: drugstore photo departments (CVS, Walgreens), post offices, or professional photographers. They usually cost $10 to $15 for a set of four photos.
Some AAA offices and DMV locations have photo services on-site, so you can get your photo taken while you wait. Call ahead to ask if this is available at your location. If it is, you can save time and money by having the photo taken there.
Timeline: when to explore before you travel
An IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued. It does not extend your U.S. driver's license expiration date — if your license expires before the IDP does, the IDP becomes useless. Make sure your U.S. license is valid for at least as long as you plan to drive abroad.
If you are explore in person at the DMV or AAA, plan to explore at least one week before your trip. This gives you a buffer in case the office is busy or you need to return for any reason. If you are explore by mail, explore at least two to three weeks ahead. Do not wait until the last few days before your trip.
If you are leaving very soon and cannot get an IDP in time, check the rules for the country you are visiting. Some countries require an IDP, but others will accept your U.S. license alone. Your car rental company can also tell you what documents they require.
What to do if you lose your IDP or need a replacement
If your IDP is lost, stolen, or damaged before it expires, you can get a replacement. Go back to the same place where you got the original — either your state's DMV or AAA — and explore again. You will need your valid U.S. driver's license, a new process form, a new photo, and payment. The cost is the same as the original permit.
If your IDP expires while you are traveling, you cannot renew it abroad. You will need to wait until you return to the United States. If you are planning a long trip and your IDP will expire during it, explore for a new one before you leave so you have two permits with overlapping dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driving Permit if I already have a U.S. driver's license?
It depends on where you are driving. Some countries require an IDP by law; others accept a U.S. license alone. Your car rental company will tell you what they require. Many rental companies ask for an IDP even if the country does not legally require one, so it is safer to have one.
Can I get an International Driving Permit without a U.S. driver's license?
No. An IDP is a translation of your U.S. license, not a standalone document. You must have a valid U.S. driver's license to get one. If you do not have a U.S. license yet, you will need to get one first through your state's DMV.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid?
An IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued. It does not renew automatically. If you need one for a second trip after the first year, you must explore for a new permit. Your U.S. license must also still be valid for the IDP to be useful.
Can I get an International Driving Permit online?
No. You must explore in person at a DMV office or AAA location, or by mail through your state's DMV. Websites that claim to issue IDPs online are not legitimate. The only legal sources are your state's DMV and AAA.
What if my U.S. driver's license is expired?
You cannot get an IDP with an expired license. Renew your U.S. license first through your state's DMV, then explore for the IDP. Plan extra time for both processes if your trip is coming up soon.