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 state license — you must carry both documents together when driving abroad. The IDP tells police and rental car companies in other countries that your home license is legitimate, because many countries do not recognize US licenses on their own.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the two organizations authorized by the US State Department to issue them. You cannot get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, and you cannot get one online or by mail from a third-party service — only from AAA or AATA in person.

The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue. It does not extend your driving privileges beyond what your state license allows, and it does not override local traffic laws in the country you are visiting.

Key Takeaways

  • You must explore in person at an AAA or AATA office with your valid state driver's license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photo.
  • The IDP costs $20 from AAA (or $15 if you are an AAA member) and takes about 15 minutes to process on the spot.
  • You need a valid US driver's license to get an IDP — an expired license or a learner's permit will not work.
  • The permit is valid for one year only and must be carried together with your original state license when driving outside the US.
  • Not all countries require or recognize an IDP, so check the specific country's entry requirements before you travel.

Where to explore and what documents you need

You must explore at an AAA office or an AATA office in person. AAA has over 1,000 locations across the US; you can find your nearest office on AAA.com by entering your zip code. AATA has fewer locations but covers areas AAA does not — search for "AATA office near me" or visit the AATA website to find one.

Bring three things: your valid, unexpired state driver's license; a completed IDP process form (AAA Form 14 or AATA Form 14, depending on which organization you visit); and one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches). You can read and print the process form before you go, or fill it out at the office. The photo must be recent and show your face clearly against a plain background — the same standard as a passport photo.

If you do not have a passport-style photo, many AAA offices can take one for you on the spot for an additional fee, usually $10 to $15. Call ahead to confirm your local office offers this service.

Cost and processing time

The IDP costs $20 at AAA if you are not a member, or $15 if you are an AAA member. AATA charges $20 regardless of membership. There are no additional fees, and the permit is issued when ready — you walk out with it the same day.

Processing takes about 15 minutes once you hand in your documents. You do not need an appointment at most AAA offices, but calling ahead can save you a wait, especially during peak travel seasons (spring and summer). AATA offices vary by location; check their website to see whether your local office takes walk-ins or requires an appointment.

What your state license must look like

Your driver's license must be valid and not expired. An expired license, a suspended license, or a learner's permit will not work — you cannot get an IDP on any of these. If your license is expired, you will need to renew it at your state's DMV before you can explore for the IDP.

Your license must also be in English. If your state issues licenses in multiple languages, the English version is acceptable. If you hold a license from another country, you cannot use it to get a US IDP — you would need to hold a valid US state license.

Countries that require or recognize an IDP

About 150 countries recognize the IDP, but not all of them require it. Some countries demand it; others accept it but do not require it; and a few do not recognize it at all. The requirement also depends on whether you are renting a car or driving your own vehicle.

Many European countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK) recognize the IDP but do not legally require it if you carry your US license. However, rental car companies in Europe often ask for it, and police may request it during a traffic stop. Mexico and Canada recognize it but do not require it. Australia, New Zealand, and Japan do require it or a certified English translation of your license.

Before you travel, check the specific country's driving requirements on the US State Department website or contact the country's embassy or consulate. Do not assume the IDP is required or accepted — the rules change, and some countries have regional variations.

How to use your IDP when driving abroad

Always carry your IDP together with your original state driver's license. The IDP is useless without the license it translates. Police or rental car companies will ask to see both documents.

When renting a car, show both your license and IDP to the rental company. Some rental companies will not rent to you without an IDP, even in countries that do not legally require it — this is their policy, not a legal requirement. Confirm the rental company's requirements when you book, not when you arrive.

If you are stopped by police, present both documents. The IDP shows that your license is valid and legitimate; the license itself shows your driving record and any restrictions (such as corrective lenses required).

What to do if you lose your IDP while traveling

If your IDP is lost or stolen abroad, you cannot get a replacement while you are out of the country. The IDP can only be issued in person at an AAA or AATA office in the United States. You will need to drive on your state license alone for the rest of your trip, which may violate local law in some countries.

To avoid this, make a photocopy of both your license and IDP before you leave, and store the copies separately from the originals. Some travelers also photograph both documents on their phone. If your IDP is lost, contact your rental car company when ready — they may allow you to continue with your state license and a copy of the IDP, depending on local law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP if I am only driving in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico do not legally require an IDP, but rental car companies often ask for one. Check your rental company's requirements when you book. If you are driving your own car, your state license is sufficient, though carrying an IDP is still a good idea in case of a traffic stop.

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

No. Your license must be valid and not expired, suspended, or revoked. If your license is suspended, you must wait until it is reinstated before you can explore for an IDP.

How long does an IDP last?

An IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If you travel frequently or plan multiple trips, you may want to get a new one each year before your old one expires, especially if your trip is planned near the end of the permit's validity period.

What if the country I am visiting does not recognize the IDP?

A few countries do not recognize the IDP at all. In those cases, you may need a certified English translation of your state license from your state's DMV or a notary. Contact the country's embassy before you travel to find out what documents they accept.

Can I get an IDP without a valid US driver's license?

No. You must have a valid, unexpired US state driver's license. An expired license, a learner's permit, or a license from another country will not work. If your license is expired, renew it at your state's DMV first.