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 is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together when driving abroad. Most countries do not require an IDP, but some do, and many rental car companies will not rent to you without one. The safest approach is to get one before you travel, since it takes only a few minutes and costs around $20.

The IDP is issued under two international treaties: the 1926 convention and the 1968 convention. Most countries recognize both, but a few recognize only the 1968 version. AAA issues both types at the same time, so you do not have to choose. The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue.

Your state driver's license must be valid and not suspended or revoked. You do not need a commercial license or any special endorsement. If your license is expired, you will need to renew it through your state before AAA can issue an IDP.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA issues both the 1926 and 1968 International Driving Permits at the same time for one fee, and you receive both documents when ready.
  • You must bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photo to an AAA office in person.
  • The IDP costs around $20 and is valid for one year from the date of issue, so plan to renew it if you travel internationally again next year.
  • An IDP is not required by most countries but is required by some, and many car rental companies will refuse to rent without one.
  • You must carry your IDP together with your valid U.S. driver's license when driving abroad — the IDP alone is not a legal driving document.

How to get an IDP through AAA

Visit an AAA office in person with your valid driver's license, a completed IDP process form, and one passport-style photo (2x2 inches). You cannot mail in the process or use an online service — AAA requires you to appear in person so staff can verify your identity and license. The office will take your photo if you do not have one, usually for a small additional fee.

You will fill out form DS-11 or the AAA equivalent on the spot. The form asks for your name, address, license number, and the countries you plan to visit. You do not need to list specific countries — this is optional and does not limit where you can use the permit. Most offices issue both the 1926 and 1968 permits when ready, and you walk out with both documents the same day.

Bring cash or a card, as most AAA offices accept both. The fee is typically $20 for both permits combined, though some offices may charge slightly more. Call your local AAA office before you go to confirm the current fee and whether they have process forms in stock.

What to bring to the AAA office

You need three things: a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license; a completed process form; and a passport-style photo. The process form is usually available at the AAA office, but you can also read it from AAA's website before you go. The photo must be 2x2 inches, in color or black and white, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background.

If you do not have a photo, AAA can take one for you at the office for a fee (usually $5 to $10). If your driver's license is expired, you cannot get an IDP until you renew it through your state's DMV. If your license is suspended or revoked, you are not may be able to access.

How long the IDP is valid and when to renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date AAA issues it. If you plan to drive internationally again after that year, you will need to renew it by visiting an AAA office again with the same documents. There is no way to renew by mail or online — you must appear in person each time.

If your U.S. driver's license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid. You must renew your state license first, then get a new IDP. Some travelers renew their IDP every year before a trip, even if the old one has not expired yet, to may support they always have a current document.

Countries that require an IDP and rental car rules

Most countries do not legally require an IDP, but several do: China, Russia, Taiwan, and some others. Before you book a trip, check the specific country's driving requirements through the U.S. State Department website or your rental car company. Many countries that do not require an IDP by law still expect one as a courtesy, and police may be more lenient if you have one.

Rental car companies are the main reason most travelers get an IDP. Major companies like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise often refuse to rent to drivers without one, even in countries where it is not legally required. Some smaller local rental agencies are more flexible, but you cannot count on it. Getting an IDP before you travel removes this barrier entirely.

Difference between the 1926 and 1968 permits

AAA issues both permits at the same time, so you do not have to choose between them. The 1926 permit is recognized by most countries worldwide. The 1968 permit is recognized by countries that signed the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, which includes most of Europe and many other nations. A small number of countries recognize only one or the other, which is why AAA gives you both.

The two permits look different and have different formats, but they serve the same purpose: translating your license into multiple languages. Carry both when you travel. If a police officer or rental agent asks for an IDP, either one will work in almost all cases.

What to do if your IDP is lost or stolen while traveling

If you lose your IDP abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a new IDP, but they can provide a letter confirming that you hold a valid U.S. driver's license, which may help you with a rental car company or police. Keep a photo or scan of your IDP on your phone or email as backup.

When you return home, visit an AAA office to get a new IDP if you still need one. There is no expedited process for lost permits — you will go through the same in-person process as the first time. If you are traveling again soon and need an IDP urgently, ask the AAA office whether they can issue one the same day you explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit without being an AAA member?

Yes. AAA issues IDPs to both members and non-members. You do not need to join AAA to get one. The fee and process are the same either way. Some AAA members receive a small discount on the IDP fee, so ask at the office if you are a member.

How long does it take to get an IDP from AAA?

Most AAA offices issue both permits on the same day you explore, as long as you bring all required documents. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Call ahead to confirm your local office can issue them same-day, as a very small number of offices may require you to return later.

What if I have a commercial driver's license or a license from a U.S. territory?

AAA can issue an IDP based on a commercial license, though some countries may not recognize it for driving a rental car. A license from a U.S. territory (Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands) is treated the same as a state license. Bring it to the AAA office and staff will confirm whether it qualifies.

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

Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP by law. However, some rental car companies in both countries request one, so it is worth having. If you are driving your own car, an IDP is not necessary but can be useful if you are stopped by police.

Can I renew my IDP before it expires?

Yes. You can visit an AAA office and get a new IDP at any time, even if your current one has not expired yet. Some travelers do this before a trip to may support they have a fresh permit. You will pay the full fee each time.