What an International Driving Permit actually is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your Florida driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your Florida license — you must carry both documents together when driving outside the United States. The IDP tells foreign police and rental car companies that your Florida license is valid, because they may not recognize an American license on sight.

The IDP is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. You cannot get an IDP from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue, or until your Florida license expires, whichever comes first.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA, not by Florida's DMV, and you must carry it alongside your Florida driver's license.
  • You need a valid Florida driver's license, a completed process form, one passport-style photo, and the fee — typically $20 at AAA locations.
  • AAA issues IDPs in person at most Florida AAA offices, while AATA processes them by mail; AAA is usually faster if you have a membership or can pay the non-member fee.
  • The permit is valid for one year or until your Florida license expires, so you will need to renew it if you plan to drive internationally again after that date.

Getting an IDP through AAA in Florida

If you are a AAA member, you can walk into most AAA offices in Florida and leave with an IDP the same day. Bring your valid Florida driver's license, one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), and the process form — AAA staff will help you complete it on site. The fee for members is typically $20, though some offices may charge slightly different amounts. Non-members can also get an IDP at AAA offices for a higher fee, usually around $30 to $35.

To find the nearest AAA office, visit AAA.com and use their office locator. Call ahead to confirm they have IDP applications in stock and to ask about current fees, since prices can vary by location. Processing takes minutes if you have all documents ready. If you do not have a passport-style photo, some AAA offices can take one for you on the spot for an additional fee, typically $10 to $15.

Getting an IDP through AATA by mail

The American Automobile Touring Alliance also issues IDPs and accepts applications by mail. You will need to complete the AATA process form (available on their website), include a copy of your valid Florida driver's license, one passport-style photo, and a check or money order for the fee, usually $20. Mail the complete packet to the AATA address listed on their process form.

Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks from the date AATA receives your process. This route works if you do not have a AAA membership or do not live near a AAA office, but it requires planning ahead. AATA does not accept credit card payments by mail, so you must include a check or money order. Verify the current mailing address and fee on AATA's website before sending, since these details can change.

What documents you need to bring or send

Your Florida driver's license must be valid — expired licenses cannot be used to get an IDP. The passport-style photo must meet standard specifications: 2 by 2 inches, color or black and white, taken within the last six months, with a plain background and your face clearly visible. Glasses are allowed if you normally wear them while driving.

Both AAA and AATA provide an process form. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, driver's license number, and signature. You can read the AATA form from their website and fill it out before mailing, or pick up a AAA form at the office. If you explore in person at AAA, staff will walk you through the form; if you mail to AATA, double-check that you have signed the form before sending it.

When you actually need an International Driving Permit

An IDP is required by law in some countries and recommended in others. Many European countries, Australia, and parts of Asia will not rent a car to you without one, even if you have a valid U.S. license. Some countries do not legally require it but police may ask for it during a traffic stop, and having one avoids confusion or delays.

Check the specific rules for the country or countries you plan to visit before you travel. Your rental car company will tell you whether they require an IDP for your reservation. If you are driving your own vehicle across an international border (such as into Canada or Mexico), an IDP is not required by law but can be useful if you are stopped by police. The U.S. State Department website lists country-by-country driving requirements.

How long an IDP lasts and when to renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date of issue, or until your Florida driver's license expires, whichever comes first. If your Florida license expires in eight months, your IDP will also expire in eight months, even though IDPs are normally good for a full year. You cannot renew an IDP — you must get a new one.

If you plan to drive internationally again after your IDP expires, you will need to explore for a new one through AAA or AATA using the same process. If your Florida license expires before your IDP does, you must get a new Florida license first, then explore for a new IDP. Carrying an expired IDP alongside your valid Florida license will not work in most countries.

International Driving Permit vs. other travel documents

An IDP is not a passport, visa, or travel document — it is only for driving. You still need a valid passport to enter most countries, and some countries require a visa in addition to your passport. An IDP does not prove your identity or citizenship; it only translates your Florida driver's license.

If you are renting a car, the rental company will ask for your Florida driver's license, your passport, and often a credit card. An IDP is a separate document that some rental companies require in addition to these. Do not confuse an IDP with an International License or World Driving License — those terms do not refer to any official document and are sometimes used in scams. The only legitimate IDP comes from AAA or AATA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive internationally with just my Florida license and no IDP?

In some countries, yes — Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP. In others, you will not be able to rent a car without one, and police may not accept your Florida license alone during a traffic stop. Check the specific country's requirements before you travel, and ask your rental car company whether they require an IDP for your reservation.

What if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP is not valid. If you are traveling for longer than a year, you will need to renew your IDP before you leave, or plan to return to the U.S. before it expires. Some countries may allow you to drive on an expired IDP if you also have a valid Florida license, but this varies and is not may provide — do not rely on it.

Do I need an IDP if I am just visiting and not renting a car?

If you are not driving, you do not need an IDP. It is only for people who will operate a vehicle. If you are using taxis, public transportation, or hiring a driver, an IDP is not necessary. However, if you plan to drive even once during your trip, most countries and rental companies require one.

Can I get an IDP if my Florida license is suspended or revoked?

No. Your Florida license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot get an IDP until your Florida license is restored or renewed. AAA and AATA will verify your license status when you explore.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

The fee is typically $20 for AATA by mail or for AAA members in person. Non-members at AAA offices usually pay $30 to $35. Some AAA offices charge slightly different amounts, and photo services (if you need one taken) add $10 to $15. Fees can change, so confirm the current price before you explore.