An IDP is a document that translates your current driver's license into multiple languages so you can drive legally in countries outside the United States
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a license itself — it is a companion document that works alongside your valid U.S. driver's license. It translates your license information into ten languages (English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Polish) and is recognized in more than 150 countries. You cannot drive internationally with only an IDP; you must carry both your U.S. license and the IDP together.
The IDP is issued in the United States by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). It is not issued by your state's DMV. The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which you purchase, and it does not replace or renew your state driver's license — your home state license remains your primary document.
If you are moving to another country permanently or relocating for work, an IDP is not what you need. You will instead need to obtain a driver's license from that country's licensing authority. An IDP is for temporary travel, tourism, or short-term visits where you plan to rent a car or drive while abroad.
Key Takeaways
- An IDP is issued only by AAA or AATA in the United States, never by a state DMV, and you must carry it together with your valid U.S. driver's license.
- You can obtain an IDP in person at an AAA office or by mail through AATA, and the process takes a few days to two weeks depending on the method.
- An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for either one or three years; the three-year permit costs more but is cheaper per year.
- An IDP does not replace your state license and is not required for driving in the United States, only for driving in foreign countries.
- If you are relocating permanently to another country, you will need to obtain a driver's license from that country instead of relying on an IDP.
How to Obtain an IDP Through AAA
The fastest way to get an IDP is to visit an AAA office in person. You will need to bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or other government-issued photo ID, and a completed process form (Form DS-11 or the AAA IDP process, depending on which organization you use). AAA can issue the IDP on the same day or within a few business days.
To find an AAA office near you, visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool. Not all AAA branches issue IDPs, so confirm by phone before you go. The cost is typically $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit, though prices vary slightly by location. AAA membership is not required to obtain an IDP, but members may receive a small discount.
Bring the completed process form with you. AAA will verify your driver's license information, take a photograph if needed, and issue the permit on the spot or mail it to you within a few days. The entire visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
Obtaining an IDP by Mail Through AATA
If no AAA office is convenient, you can request an IDP by mail through the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). You will need to complete the AATA process form, include a photocopy of your valid U.S. driver's license, and mail both to the AATA address listed on their website along with payment.
The AATA accepts payment by check, money order, or credit card. Processing time is typically 7 to 14 days from the date they receive your process, plus mail delivery time in both directions. The cost is the same as AAA: $15 for one year or $20 for three years. You can track your process status on the AATA website if you provide an email address.
This method takes longer than visiting an AAA office in person, so plan ahead if you have a specific travel date. Order at least three weeks before you need the permit to account for processing and mail delays.
What Documents You Need to Bring or Submit
| Document | In Person (AAA) | By Mail (AATA) |
|---|---|---|
| Valid U.S. driver's license | Original | Photocopy |
| Government-issued photo ID (passport, state ID, etc.) | Original | Not required |
| Completed IDP process form | Original, signed | Original, signed |
| Payment ($15 or $20) | Cash, check, or card | Check, money order, or card |
| Photograph | AAA may take one; bring passport photo if preferred | Not required |
IDP Validity and Renewal
An IDP is valid for either one or three years from the date of issue. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. You do not renew an IDP — when it expires, you must obtain a new one through AAA or AATA using the same process.
An IDP is only valid if your U.S. driver's license is also valid. If your state license expires or is suspended, your IDP becomes invalid even if the permit itself has not reached its expiration date. Before traveling, check that both documents are current.
If you are moving to another country and your U.S. license expires while you are abroad, you cannot renew it by mail from most states. Plan to renew your U.S. license before you leave, or arrange to have it renewed by a family member or trusted contact who can visit your state's DMV on your behalf.
When You Do Not Need an IDP
You do not need an IDP to drive in the United States, even if you are relocating from another country. Your valid U.S. driver's license is sufficient for all domestic driving. An IDP is only for driving in foreign countries.
If you are moving to another country permanently or for an extended stay (typically longer than one year), you will need to obtain a driver's license from that country's licensing authority. An IDP is not a substitute for a local license and will not satisfy residency or employment requirements. Contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country to learn what documents you need to obtain a local license.
Some countries have reciprocal agreements with the United States that allow U.S. license holders to convert their license to a local one without retaking the written or driving test. An IDP does not provide this benefit — you must contact the destination country's licensing authority directly.
Common Mistakes When Ordering an IDP
The most common mistake is waiting until the last minute. If you order by mail, processing and delivery can take three to four weeks. If you order in person at AAA, you may still need to wait a few days if the office is busy. Plan to order at least two to three weeks before your travel date.
Another mistake is assuming an IDP replaces your U.S. driver's license. It does not. You must carry both documents together when driving abroad. If you lose your IDP, you can still drive with your U.S. license in most countries, but some rental car companies may refuse to rent to you without it. If you lose your U.S. license, the IDP alone is not valid.
Do not order an IDP if your U.S. driver's license is expired or suspended. The IDP is only valid if your underlying U.S. license is valid. Renew your state license first, then order the IDP.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive in Canada or Mexico with just an IDP and no U.S. driver's license?
No. You must carry both your valid U.S. driver's license and your IDP together. An IDP alone is not a valid driving document. If you are stopped by police, you must be able to produce your U.S. license.
What happens if my IDP expires while I am traveling abroad?
An expired IDP is no longer valid. If you are traveling for longer than the permit's validity period, order a three-year IDP instead of a one-year permit. If your IDP expires during your trip, you can still drive with your U.S. license alone in most countries, though some rental car companies may object.
Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car for a day trip to Canada?
No. An IDP is not required for short trips to Canada or Mexico. Your valid U.S. driver's license is sufficient. An IDP is useful if you are renting a car for an extended period or traveling to countries outside North America where English-language documents are less common.
Can I get an IDP from my state's DMV?
No. Only AAA and AATA issue IDPs in the United States. Your state's DMV does not issue them. You must contact AAA or AATA directly.
Is an IDP the same as an international driver's license?
Yes, they are the same thing. "International Driving Permit" and "international driver's license" refer to the same document. It is officially called an IDP and is issued by AAA or AATA.