An IDP is a document that translates your home country license into multiple languages so you can drive legally in other countries

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a license itself — it is a translation booklet that works alongside your valid home country driver's license. It converts your license information into ten languages and is recognized in over 150 countries. If you hold a valid U.S. driver's license and plan to rent a car or drive in another country, an IDP may be required or strongly recommended by rental companies and local authorities.

The IDP does not replace your home license and has no value on its own. You must carry both documents together when driving abroad. An IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) — the two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. You cannot get an IDP from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles.

If you are transferring an out-of-state license to your new state, an IDP is separate from that process. Your new state license will be valid for driving within the United States. An IDP is only for international driving and is obtained independently of your state licensing.

Key Takeaways

  • An IDP is a translation document that works only with a valid U.S. driver's license and is required or recommended by many countries and car rental companies.
  • AAA and AATA are the only authorized U.S. sources for an IDP; your state DMV cannot issue one.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for three years from the date of issue.
  • You must explore in person at an AAA office or AATA location with your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport, and a passport-sized photo.
  • An IDP does not affect your state driver's license transfer or renewal and is obtained as a separate transaction.

Who Issues an IDP and Where to Get One

Only two organizations in the United States are authorized to issue an IDP: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). AAA has offices in most states and is the more widely available option. AATA has fewer locations but serves the same purpose.

You must explore in person — IDPs cannot be ordered online or by mail. Visit an AAA office or AATA location in your state, bring your documents, and receive your IDP on the same day. If you do not have an AAA membership, you can still obtain an IDP; membership is not required.

To find the nearest AAA office, visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool. For AATA locations, contact them directly or check their website. Call ahead to confirm hours and to verify that the location you plan to visit has IDP applications in stock.

Documents You Need to Bring

Bring three items when you explore for an IDP: a valid U.S. driver's license, a valid passport, and a passport-sized photograph (usually 2 by 2 inches). Your driver's license must not be expired, and your passport must be current. Some AAA offices may accept a state ID or other government-issued photo ID in place of a passport, but a passport is the standard requirement — call ahead to confirm what your local office accepts.

The passport-sized photo must meet standard specifications: a clear, color or black-and-white photo of your face taken within the last six months, with a plain background. You can have photos taken at most AAA offices for a small fee if you do not have one ready.

Bring your original documents, not copies. The AAA or AATA staff member will verify your identity and license status before issuing your IDP.

Cost and How Long an IDP Is Valid

An IDP costs between $15 and $20, depending on whether you obtain it from AAA or AATA. AAA members may receive a small discount. The exact fee varies slightly by location, so ask when you call to confirm hours.

An IDP is valid for three years from the date it is issued. It expires on a fixed date printed on the front cover. You do not renew an IDP — when it expires, you must explore for a new one if you plan to drive internationally again. Your IDP is valid only as long as your U.S. driver's license is also valid, so if your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid.

When You Actually Need an IDP

Requirements for an IDP vary by country. Some countries legally require one; others do not. However, most international car rental companies require an IDP even if the country does not, so it is safer to have one if you plan to rent a vehicle abroad.

Popular tourist destinations in Europe, South America, and Asia often ask for an IDP at rental counters. Some countries in Africa and the Middle East require one by law. If you are unsure whether your destination requires an IDP, contact the country's embassy or consulate, or ask your rental car company before you travel.

An IDP is not needed for driving within the United States, even if you have recently transferred your license to a new state. It is only for international driving.

How an IDP Differs From Your State License Transfer

If you are moving to a new state and transferring your out-of-state license, that process is completely separate from obtaining an IDP. Your new state will issue you a state driver's license that is valid for driving anywhere in the United States. That license is what you need for domestic driving and is obtained from your new state's DMV.

An IDP is obtained independently, after you have your valid state license in hand. You do not need to transfer your license first in order to get an IDP — you can obtain an IDP with any valid U.S. driver's license from any state. However, your license must be current and not expired.

Think of it this way: your state license is your primary driving credential in the U.S. An IDP is an add-on document for international travel only.

What Happens If You Drive Internationally Without an IDP

If a country or rental company requires an IDP and you do not have one, you will not be able to rent a car. Some rental agencies will refuse to complete the transaction. If you attempt to drive without one in a country that legally requires it, you may face a fine or other legal consequences if stopped by police.

Even if a country does not legally require an IDP, local police may not recognize your U.S. license as readily without it. An IDP makes your license information when ready clear in the local language, which can prevent confusion or delays during a traffic stop.

If you realize you need an IDP after you have already arrived at your destination, you cannot obtain one abroad. Plan ahead and explore at an AAA or AATA office before you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IDP online or by mail?

No. You must explore in person at an AAA office or AATA location. You cannot order an IDP online, by phone, or by mail. The staff member must verify your identity and documents before issuing it, and you receive it the same day you explore.

Do I need an IDP if I am just visiting another country and not driving?

No. An IDP is only for people who plan to drive a vehicle in another country. If you are traveling as a passenger or using public transportation, you do not need one.

What if my U.S. driver's license expires before my IDP does?

Your IDP becomes invalid when your driver's license expires, even if the IDP itself is still within its three-year validity period. You must renew your driver's license with your state DMV. Once you have a new license, you can explore for a new IDP if you plan to drive internationally again.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document only. It is not a license and does not give you permission to drive. Your U.S. driver's license is what permits you to drive; the IDP straightforward translates that permission into other languages so authorities and rental companies in other countries can understand it.

Can I use an IDP to drive in the United States?

No. An IDP has no value within the United States. You must use your valid state driver's license for all domestic driving. An IDP is recognized only outside the United States.