What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your home license—you must carry both documents together when driving outside your country. The IDP exists because many countries do not recognize licenses issued elsewhere, and border officials need to verify that you are a licensed driver in your home country.

The IDP is issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency, not by any international body. It costs between $15 and $30 depending on your state and is valid for one or three years. You cannot drive legally with only an IDP; it is a companion document to your actual license.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid driver's license from your state before you can get an IDP; the IDP cannot be issued on its own.
  • Most states issue IDPs in person at a DMV office, though a few allow mail-in requests if you meet specific requirements.
  • Processing takes anywhere from same-day to several weeks depending on whether you visit in person or mail your request, so plan ahead if you are traveling soon.
  • An IDP is valid for one or three years and costs $15 to $30; you must renew it if it expires while you are abroad.
  • Some countries do not recognize IDPs at all, so check your destination's specific requirements before you travel.

How to Get an IDP in Person at Your DMV

The fastest way to get an IDP is to visit your state's DMV office in person. Bring your valid driver's license, proof of identity (passport, state ID, or birth certificate), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). Some states also require a completed process form, which you can read from the DMV website or fill out on arrival.

Walk-in service varies by location. Some DMV offices issue IDPs on the spot; others require an appointment. Call your local office or check the state DMV website before you go. If you are traveling within two weeks, visiting in person is your safest option because mail processing can take longer.

The fee is paid at the counter, usually by cash, check, or card. Ask for a receipt and keep it until you receive your IDP in the mail (if your state mails it) or take it with you (if issued when ready).

explore by Mail If Your State Allows It

A handful of states allow you to request an IDP by mail if you meet their conditions. You typically must have a valid, unexpired license, no recent traffic violations, and a clean driving record. Check your state DMV website to see if mail-in IDP requests are available and what documents they require.

If mail-in is an option, you will usually need to send a completed process form, a photocopy of your driver's license, proof of address, and a check or money order for the fee. Mail it to the address listed on the DMV website and allow 2 to 4 weeks for processing. Some states return the IDP by mail; others require you to pick it up in person.

Mail-in requests are slower than in-person visits, so do not use this route if you are leaving in fewer than three weeks. If your state does not offer mail-in service, you must visit a DMV office.

What Happens When You Travel With Your IDP

When you cross an international border, carry both your state driver's license and your IDP together. Border agents and police in other countries will check both documents. The IDP proves that your license is legitimate and translates key information—your name, license number, and driving restrictions—into languages the local authorities understand.

Some countries require the IDP; others accept it but do not require it if you also have your original license. A few countries do not recognize IDPs at all and may not allow you to drive even with one. Before you travel, check the specific requirements of each country you plan to visit. The U.S. State Department website and your rental car company can tell you what documents each destination requires.

If your IDP expires while you are abroad, you cannot renew it overseas. You must either return home to renew it or stop driving in that country. Plan your travel dates around your IDP's expiration date if you will be away for more than a few weeks.

IDP Validity and Renewal

An IDP is valid for either one or three years, depending on which term you choose when you request it. The one-year permit costs less but requires more frequent renewal if you travel regularly. The three-year permit costs more upfront but covers longer trips and multiple years of travel.

Your IDP is only valid if your underlying driver's license is also valid. If your license expires or is suspended, your IDP becomes invalid even if it has not reached its expiration date. Conversely, if your IDP expires but your license is still valid, you can request a new IDP without renewing your license.

To renew an IDP, follow the same process you used to get the first one: visit your DMV in person or mail in a request if your state allows it. You will need your current, valid driver's license and the same proof of identity and address. There is no grace period—once your IDP expires, it cannot be used, so renew it before you travel if it is close to expiration.

States With Different IDP Rules

Most states follow the same basic process, but a few have unique requirements or restrictions. Some states limit how many IDPs you can hold at once or require that your license be at least a certain age before you can get an IDP. A few states charge different fees for one-year versus three-year permits, and some offer discounts for seniors or military personnel.

California, New York, and Texas process high volumes of IDP requests and may have longer wait times at busy DMV offices. If you live in one of these states and need an IDP quickly, visit early in the week or during off-peak hours. Check your state's DMV website for current processing times and any temporary closures.

A small number of states do not issue IDPs at all and instead direct residents to the American Automobile Association (AAA). If your state does not issue IDPs through the DMV, AAA can issue one for a higher fee (typically $20 to $30 for members, more for non-members). You still need a valid driver's license and proof of identity.

What to Do If You Lose Your IDP Abroad

If your IDP is lost or stolen while you are traveling, you cannot replace it overseas. Your options depend on how long you will be away and whether you need to drive. If you are leaving soon, contact your state DMV before you depart and ask if they can issue a replacement quickly or if you can request one by mail to be held for pickup when you return.

If you are already abroad and need to drive, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in that country. They cannot issue an IDP, but they can advise you on local driving laws and whether your original license alone is sufficient. Some countries will accept your state license without an IDP if you can show proof that the IDP was lost (a police report helps). Rental car companies may also accept your license alone in an emergency, though they may charge a higher fee or require additional insurance.

To avoid this situation, make a photocopy of both your license and IDP before you travel and store it separately from the originals. Some travelers also photograph both documents and email them to themselves for backup access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP if I am just renting a car for a week?

It depends on your destination. Some countries legally require an IDP; others do not. Rental car companies often require one regardless of local law. Check both your destination country's requirements and your rental company's policy before you book. If either requires it, get an IDP before you leave.

Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted. If your license is expired, renew it first, then request an IDP.

What if my destination country does not recognize IDPs?

Some countries do not accept IDPs and require an official translation of your license instead, obtained through a translator certified by that country's government. Check your destination's embassy website or contact them directly before you travel. If an IDP is not accepted, you may need to arrange a certified translation instead.

How long does it take to get an IDP if I explore in person?

In-person processing varies. Some DMV offices issue IDPs when ready; others mail them within one to two weeks. Call your local DMV office before you visit to ask about their current processing time. If you need it urgently, ask whether same-day or next-day service is available.

Can I use an expired IDP if my driver's license is still valid?

No. An expired IDP is not valid for driving, even if your underlying license is current. You must renew it before you travel. Plan ahead so your IDP does not expire during your trip.