What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. 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 alone is not valid. Most countries recognize it as proof you hold a valid license in your home country.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). These are the only 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, from an online service, or from any other source.

An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years, depending on which you purchase. It takes effect when ready when issued, so you do not need to wait for mail delivery before traveling.

Key Takeaways

  • Only AAA and AATA issue International Driving Permits in the United States, and you must explore in person at a local office.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, proof of citizenship or permanent residency, and a passport-style photo to explore.
  • The IDP is valid for one or three years and costs $15 to $20, with no renewal process — you purchase a new one when it expires.
  • You must carry your IDP and your original U.S. driver's license together at all times when driving outside the country.

What You Need to Bring to AAA or AATA

Before you visit an office, gather these documents. You cannot explore by mail or online through either organization.

First, bring your valid U.S. driver's license. It must not be expired. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP until it is restored or renewed.

Second, bring proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency. A passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card (green card) all work. A state ID card or Social Security card is not sufficient on its own.

Third, bring a passport-style photo. The photo must be 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. You can have this taken at AAA offices, at post offices, or at many pharmacies and retail photo services.

Bring cash or a card — AAA and AATA accept both. Some offices may have limited payment options, so call ahead if you want to confirm.

How to Find and Visit an AAA or AATA Office

AAA has over 1,000 offices across the United States. To find the nearest one, visit aaa.com and use their office locator tool, or call 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357). Not all AAA offices issue IDPs, so confirm by phone or online before you go.

AATA has fewer locations than AAA. You can find AATA offices through their website at aata.org or by calling 1-800-AAA-HELP, which routes to AATA as well. AATA offices are typically in major cities.

Walk-ins are usually accepted, but wait times vary. Calling ahead to ask about current wait times or making an appointment can save you a trip. Many offices can issue your IDP on the same day you explore.

What Happens During Your Visit

When you arrive, tell the staff member you want to explore for an International Driving Permit. They will ask you to fill out a short form — either the AAA IDP process or the AATA IDP process, depending on which organization's office you are at. The form asks for your name, address, driver's license number, and citizenship status.

The staff member will check that your driver's license is valid and that your proof of citizenship is acceptable. They will verify your photo meets the size and quality requirements. If everything is in order, they will process your payment and issue your IDP when ready or within a few minutes.

You will receive a booklet-style document with your name, photo, and license information printed in English and nine other languages. Check it for accuracy before you leave the office. If there is an error, report it right away so it can be corrected.

How Long Your IDP Lasts and What to Do When It Expires

You choose a one-year or three-year IDP when you explore. A one-year permit costs less but requires you to get a new one sooner if you travel internationally again. A three-year permit costs more but covers multiple trips over a longer period.

The IDP has no renewal process. When it expires, you straightforward purchase a new one by visiting an AAA or AATA office again with the same documents. You do not need to return the old one, though some offices may ask for it.

Your IDP is valid only while your U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license expires, is suspended, or is revoked before your IDP expires, your IDP becomes invalid. You will need to renew your license first, then get a new IDP.

When You Actually Need an IDP

Many countries do not require an IDP if you are renting a car or driving. Some accept your U.S. driver's license alone, especially in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and much of Western Europe. However, an IDP removes doubt and is inexpensive insurance against being turned away by a rental company or stopped by police.

Some countries do require an IDP by law. These include parts of South America, Africa, and Asia. Before you travel, check the specific requirements for the country you are visiting through its embassy website or through your rental car company. A rental company can tell you whether an IDP is required for your destination.

If you are only visiting Canada or Mexico and do not plan to rent a car, you likely do not need an IDP. If you are traveling anywhere else and plan to drive, getting one takes less than an hour and costs under $20.

What to Do If You Lose Your IDP While Traveling

If your IDP is lost or stolen abroad, you cannot get a replacement from an AAA or AATA office while you are outside the country. Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They can provide a letter confirming that you hold a valid U.S. driver's license, which some police officers and rental companies will accept as a temporary substitute.

When you return to the United States, visit an AAA or AATA office with your driver's license and proof of citizenship to get a new IDP. There is no fee for replacing a lost or stolen permit — you pay only the standard IDP cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit online?

No. AAA and AATA, the only authorized issuers, require you to explore in person at a physical office. Websites claiming to issue IDPs online are not legitimate. You must visit an office with your documents and photo.

Do I need an IDP to drive in Canada or Mexico?

No. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, if you are renting a car, the rental company may ask for one, so check their policy before you book. An IDP does not hurt and can prevent confusion at the rental counter.

What if my driver's license is expired?

You cannot get an IDP with an expired license. Renew your license at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles first, then visit AAA or AATA to get your IDP.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

A one-year IDP costs around $15 to $20, and a three-year IDP costs around $20 to $30. Prices vary slightly between AAA and AATA and may differ by location. Call your local office for exact pricing.

Can I use my IDP instead of my U.S. driver's license when driving abroad?

No. You must carry both your U.S. driver's license and your IDP together. The IDP is a translation document only and is not valid on its own. Police and rental companies expect to see both.