What an International Driving Permit is and whether you need one

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It does not replace your license — you must carry both together. Many countries recognize it as proof you are a licensed driver in your home country, which can speed up car rentals, police interactions, and insurance claims abroad.

You do not need an IDP to drive in most countries. Many nations accept a U.S. driver's license alone, especially for short visits. However, some rental car companies require one, and a few countries — including Italy, Spain, and Germany — technically ask for it, though enforcement varies. If you plan to rent a car internationally or drive for more than a few weeks, getting one removes uncertainty.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is one of two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs. The other is the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both issue the same document; the choice is mainly about which office is near you.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA issues International Driving Permits in person at local AAA offices, and you must bring your valid U.S. driver's license, passport, and two passport-sized photos.
  • An IDP costs $20 and is valid for one year from the date of issue, so timing matters if you are planning a specific trip.
  • You cannot mail in an process or renew an IDP by mail — you must visit an AAA office in person each time.
  • An IDP is not a license and does not give you driving rights you do not already have; it only translates your existing license into other languages.

What you need to bring to an AAA office

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license — it must not be expired. Bring your passport (not a passport card; a full passport book). Bring two passport-sized photos, which are 2 inches by 2 inches. Many AAA offices have a photo service on-site, but calling ahead to confirm saves a trip.

You must be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring proof of permanent residency. Bring cash or a card — AAA offices accept both, though some locations may have payment method limits, so calling first is wise.

Do not mail in documents. AAA requires you to appear in person so staff can verify your identity and license. This is a State Department requirement, not an AAA choice.

How to find an AAA office and what to expect

Visit AAA.com and use the office locator tool, or call 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357) to find the nearest AAA office. Not every AAA office issues IDPs, so confirm by phone or online before you go. Some offices are in retail locations; others are standalone. Hours vary widely, and some offices close for lunch.

When you arrive, staff will check your documents, take your information, and verify your driver's license number. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will receive your IDP on the spot — it is printed while you wait. Some offices may ask you to return later the same day if they are busy, but most complete it when ready.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP. Membership is not required. However, AAA members sometimes receive small discounts on the fee, so ask when you call.

Cost and how long an IDP is valid

An International Driving Permit costs $20. This is the State Department's set fee; AAA cannot charge more or less. If an office quotes a different price, ask why — some locations may add a small service fee, though most do not.

An IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If you are planning a trip six months away, wait to get your IDP until closer to that date, because it will expire before you return home if you get it too early. If you need it for multiple trips over several years, you will need to get a new one each year.

There is no renewal process. When your IDP expires, you must go back to an AAA office (or AATA) and pay the $20 fee again.

What to do if you cannot visit an AAA office in person

If no AAA office is near you, contact the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) at 1-800-622-7070 or visit AAATourAlliance.com. AATA issues the same IDP and has offices in different locations. Some AATA offices may have different hours or services, so call ahead.

If you are traveling and need an IDP while abroad, you cannot get one from AAA or AATA remotely. You must return to the United States or contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where you are located — they can sometimes issue an IDP in emergency situations, though this is not may provide and may take several days.

Do not use online services that claim to issue or "register" an IDP. These are scams. The only legitimate sources are AAA and AATA, both of which require in-person visits.

How to use your IDP when driving abroad

Always carry your IDP together with your valid U.S. driver's license. The IDP alone is not proof of your right to drive — it is only a translation. Police, rental companies, and insurance agents will want to see both documents.

When you rent a car, show both your license and IDP to the rental agent. Some companies will not rent to you without an IDP, even though it is not legally required in most places. Having it eliminates that barrier. If you are stopped by police, hand over both documents. The officer can read your license information in their own language.

If you get into an accident or need to file an insurance claim, your IDP helps the foreign insurance company verify your license status without delay. Keep it in a safe place — if it is lost or stolen, you will need to return to an AAA office to get a replacement, which costs another $20.

Differences between an IDP and other travel documents

An IDP is not a passport, visa, or travel permit. It does not grant you entry to any country or extend your stay. You still need a valid passport and any required visas for the countries you visit. An IDP only helps you drive once you are there.

An IDP is also not an international license or a second license. It is a translation document. Your U.S. driver's license remains your only actual license to drive. Some countries issue their own international licenses to their residents; the U.S. does not. The IDP is the closest equivalent.

If you hold a license from another country and want to drive in the United States, an IDP from that country may help, but you will likely need to convert your foreign license to a U.S. license through your state's DMV. Rules vary by state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Europe?

Most major rental companies in Europe will rent to you with just a U.S. driver's license, but some require an IDP. It is safer to have one. If you are booking online, check the rental company's requirements before you reserve. Having an IDP costs $20 and takes one visit to AAA; not having it could mean losing your reservation or paying extra fees.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. license is expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not expired. If your license has expired, renew it through your state's DMV first, then go to AAA to get your IDP. An expired license will be rejected at the AAA office.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?

The process at an AAA office takes 15 to 30 minutes, and you receive your IDP the same day. There is no waiting period or mail delivery. You walk in with your documents and walk out with your permit in hand, assuming the office is not extremely busy.

What happens if my International Driving Permit is lost or stolen while I am traveling?

You can still drive with just your U.S. license in most countries, though some rental companies or police may ask for the IDP. Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in that country — they may issue a replacement in an emergency, though this is not may provide. When you return to the U.S., you can get a new IDP from AAA for $20.

Is an International Driving Permit the same thing as an International License?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation of your existing U.S. license. An International License is a separate license issued by some countries to their own residents. The U.S. does not issue International Licenses. If you hold a license from another country, that country may have issued you an International License, which is different from a U.S. IDP.