You get an International Driving Permit from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not from a federal office

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is issued by your state DMV — the same place you got your regular driver's license. You cannot get one from a national government office or a private company. The process is straightforward: you visit your DMV in person, bring your valid driver's license and a passport-style photo, fill out a form, pay a fee, and walk out with a document that translates your license into ten languages.

The IDP itself does not replace your regular license. You carry both documents together when you drive abroad. Your home state license is what actually proves you can drive; the IDP is a translation that helps police officers in other countries understand what your license says. Some countries require it, some accept your license alone, and some accept neither — that depends on where you are going, not on where you get the permit.

The entire transaction usually takes less than an hour. You do not need an appointment at most DMVs, though calling ahead to confirm they have the form in stock can save a trip. The fee varies by state, typically between $15 and $30.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state DMV is the only place to get a legitimate International Driving Permit; private websites that claim to issue them are not authorized.
  • You must bring your valid driver's license, a passport-style photo, and payment; the DMV will provide the process form.
  • An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be carried alongside your regular license when driving internationally.
  • The fee ranges by state but is typically $15 to $30, and the process takes less than an hour at most DMV locations.
  • Before traveling, check the specific requirements of the country you are visiting, because some do not recognize IDPs and some require additional documents.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

Bring three things: your current, valid driver's license; a passport-style photograph (usually 2x2 inches); and payment. The DMV will have the process form on hand, so you do not need to print one beforehand, though you can read it from your state's DMV website if you prefer to fill it out at home.

Your driver's license must not be expired. If yours has expired, you will need to renew it first before you can get an IDP. The passport-style photo must meet standard specifications — a color photo of your face against a plain background, taken within the last six months. Many DMVs have a photo service on-site if you do not have one ready.

Some states may ask for additional identification, such as a birth certificate or Social Security card, so calling your local DMV ahead of time can confirm exactly what to bring. A few states also require you to be at least 18 years old, though this is standard for driver's licenses anyway.

How to find your state DMV office and hours

Go to your state's official DMV website and search for "International Driving Permit" or "IDP." Each state DMV publishes a list of which locations issue them. Not every DMV branch handles IDPs — some states concentrate them at regional offices — so checking the website first prevents a wasted trip.

The DMV website will also show you the current fee for your state, the exact form number you need, and whether walk-ins are accepted or appointments are required. A few states use online scheduling; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Hours vary widely, so confirm before you go.

If you cannot find the information on your state's website, call the DMV customer service line listed there. Staff can tell you which office nearest you issues IDPs and whether you need an appointment. Many states also allow you to call the specific branch directly.

What happens during the process process

You arrive at the DMV with your documents, take a number if required, and wait to be called. When it is your turn, hand over your license, photo, and payment. The staff member will fill in or verify information on the process form — your name, address, license number, and the date of issue. You will sign the form, and they will process it on the spot.

The IDP is printed when ready at most DMVs. You will receive a booklet-style document with your information, your photo, and translations of your license details into French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, Finnish, and Norwegian. The entire interaction takes 10 to 20 minutes once you reach the counter.

Keep the IDP in a safe place until you travel. It is valid for exactly one year from the date of issue, so check the expiration date before your trip. If you lose it or it expires before you travel, you will need to return to the DMV and pay the fee again to get a replacement.

Understanding IDP validity and expiration

Your IDP expires one year after the date printed on it. This is a fixed rule across all states — you cannot renew it or extend it. If your trip is scheduled for 13 months after you get the permit, you will need to get a new one closer to your travel date.

The IDP is only valid when carried together with your original driver's license. If you lose your license or it expires, your IDP becomes useless even if it has not expired yet. If you renew your driver's license before your IDP expires, you do not automatically get a new IDP — you will need to explore for another one if you still need it.

Some countries have their own rules about how old an IDP can be when you arrive. A few require it to be issued within six months of your entry date. Check the requirements of your destination country before you explore, because getting an IDP that is too old for your destination wastes money and time.

Avoiding scams and unauthorized websites

Many websites advertise "International Driving Permits" and claim they can issue them online or by mail without a visit to the DMV. These are not legitimate. The only legal IDP comes from your state DMV. Private companies cannot issue them, and no online service can replace the in-person process.

Scam sites typically charge $50 to $200 and promise delivery by email or mail. What you receive is a document that looks official but has no legal standing. Police in other countries will not recognize it, and you could face fines or legal trouble if you try to use it as proof of your right to drive.

If you see an ad for an IDP that does not direct you to your state DMV, it is a scam. Stick to your state's official DMV website or call the DMV directly. The legitimate process is cheap, fast, and takes one visit.

What to do if your state DMV does not issue IDPs

A very small number of states do not issue IDPs themselves but instead direct you to an authorized third-party organization. This is rare, but if your state is one of them, the DMV website will clearly state this and provide the name and contact information of the authorized issuer. This is different from a scam — the organization will be named on your state's official DMV site.

If you cannot find any information about IDPs on your state DMV website, call the customer service line and ask directly. They will tell you whether your state issues them, where to go, and what the fee is. Do not assume your state does not offer them just because the website is unclear — many DMV sites are poorly organized, and a phone call will get you a straight answer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico both accept a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in those countries may ask for one, so bringing it does not hurt. Check with your rental company before you travel to see what they require.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my license is suspended or revoked?

No. Your IDP is only issued if your driver's license is valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored or renewed.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

The fee varies by state, typically between $15 and $30. Some states charge slightly more if you need a replacement before the one-year expiration. Check your state DMV website or call to confirm the exact fee before you go.

What if I get an International Driving Permit but then my plans change and I do not travel?

The IDP is valid for one year, so you can keep it and use it on a future trip within that year. If you do not travel before it expires, you would need to get a new one if you travel later. There is no refund for unused permits.

Can I get an International Driving Permit by mail?

No. You must explore in person at your state DMV. Some states allow you to read and print the form beforehand to save time, but you must visit the office to submit it and receive the permit.