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 tells police and rental car companies in other countries that your U.S. license is legitimate, since many countries do not recognize American licenses without this translation.

The IDP is issued by two organizations in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both issue identical permits that are valid for one or three years. You cannot get an IDP from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or from any government office — only from these two private organizations.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP, and both documents must travel together.
  • Only AAA and AATA issue IDPs in the United States; your state DMV cannot issue one.
  • The one-year IDP costs around $20 at AAA and $15 at AATA, though prices vary by location.
  • You can get an IDP in person at an AAA office or AATA location, or by mail through AATA if you are not near an office.
  • Processing takes one to two weeks by mail, or same-day in person at most AAA locations.

Getting an IDP Through AAA

AAA issues IDPs at most of its local club offices across the country. To get one, bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and cash or a card to pay the fee. You do not need to be an AAA member, though members sometimes receive a small discount. Call your local AAA office before you go to confirm they have IDP stock on hand, since some smaller locations do not keep them in inventory.

If you go in person, most AAA offices issue the IDP on the spot. If you mail in your request, AAA takes one to two weeks to process and return it. To mail an process, contact your local AAA office for their specific form and mailing address, since each region handles mail requests differently. The one-year permit costs around $20, and the three-year permit costs around $40, though exact prices vary by AAA club location.

Getting an IDP Through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance processes IDP requests by mail and does not have walk-in office locations. You can order an process form from their website or request one by phone. Fill out the form, include a photocopy of your driver's license, a passport-style photo, and payment, then mail everything to their processing center.

AATA typically processes mail requests in five to seven business days. The one-year IDP costs around $15, and the three-year IDP costs around $30. AATA also offers rush processing for an additional fee if you need the permit faster. Since AATA is mail-only, this route works best if you are not near an AAA office or if you prefer to handle everything by post.

Documents and Photos You Will Need

Both AAA and AATA require the same basic documents. You need a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license — an expired license will not work. You also need one passport-style photo, which is 2 inches by 2 inches. This is the same size photo used for passports and visas. You can get passport photos at CVS, Walgreens, Costco, or any professional photography studio.

If you are explore by mail through AATA, you will also need to include a photocopy of your driver's license. AAA does not require a photocopy if you explore in person, since they can scan your license on the spot. Bring payment in the form of cash, debit card, or credit card. Personal checks are generally not accepted.

How Long the IDP Is Valid

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which version you purchase. The one-year permit is cheaper and works well if you are taking a single trip. The three-year permit costs more upfront but covers multiple trips over a longer period, so it makes sense if you travel internationally more than once every few years.

Your IDP is only valid as long as your U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. You cannot renew an IDP — you must get a new one. If your license is suspended or revoked, your IDP is no longer valid even if it has not expired.

Which Countries Recognize the IDP

Most countries that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals recognize the IDP. This includes most of Europe, South America, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. However, some countries do not recognize it, and a few countries require additional documents beyond the IDP and your U.S. license.

Before you travel, check the specific requirements for the country you are visiting. Your car rental company, the country's embassy website, or the U.S. State Department travel advisory for that country can tell you whether an IDP is needed. Some countries require an IDP by law, some accept it but do not require it, and a small number do not recognize it at all. Carrying one does not hurt and often makes renting a car easier even in countries where it is not legally required.

What Happens If You Drive Without an IDP Where One Is Required

If you drive in a country that requires an IDP and you do not have one, you can be fined by local police. The fine amount varies by country — some charge a small amount, while others impose steep penalties. In some cases, police may not allow you to continue driving and may impound the vehicle. Rental car companies may also refuse to rent to you if you cannot show an IDP where it is required.

Even if an IDP is not legally required, rental companies often ask for one as proof that your U.S. license is valid. Without it, some companies will refuse to rent to you or will charge an additional fee. Carrying an IDP costs very little and takes up almost no space in your wallet, so getting one before you travel is the safest choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your driver's license must be valid and unexpired at the time you get the IDP. If your license has expired, renew it at your state DMV first, then get the IDP. An IDP is only valid as long as the license it is based on remains valid.

Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car for a day trip?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Some companies require it by policy, others do not. Call the rental company before you book to ask whether they require an IDP. Many companies will rent to you without one but may charge an extra fee or require additional insurance. Getting an IDP beforehand avoids this hassle.

Can I get an IDP at the airport before I leave?

No. Neither AAA nor AATA has offices at airports. You must get an IDP before you travel. If you are leaving soon, visit an AAA office in person for same-day service, or use AATA's rush mail service if you are not near an AAA location.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

You cannot get a replacement IDP while abroad. If you lose it, you still have your U.S. driver's license, which is your primary document. Some rental companies and police may accept just your U.S. license, though you may face delays or extra questions. To avoid this, keep your IDP in a safe place separate from your wallet, or take a photo of it on your phone as backup.

Is an IDP the same as an international driver's license?

Yes. "International Driving Permit" and "international driver's license" refer to the same document. It is not a separate license but a translation of your U.S. license. You must carry both documents together.