What an international driver's license is and where to get one
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license from your state or country. You get one from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them.
The IDP exists because some countries' police officers and car rental companies may not recognize a U.S. license on sight. The permit shows them your license information in their language, which can speed up a traffic stop or rental transaction. Many countries do not require it, but some do, and others make it easier to rent a car if you have one.
You cannot get an IDP online or by mail without first visiting a location in person. AAA issues them at its local clubs across the country. AATA issues them through a smaller network of offices. Both require you to bring your valid U.S. driver's license, proof of citizenship (passport or birth certificate), and a passport-sized photo.
Key Takeaways
- An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA and requires an in-person visit with your valid U.S. driver's license and a passport photo.
- The IDP is a translation document that works only with your actual license — it does not replace it and is not valid on its own.
- AAA has thousands of local clubs nationwide; AATA has a smaller network, so AAA is usually the faster option if you are not already a member.
- Processing takes one to two hours at AAA locations and varies at AATA offices, so call ahead to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment.
- The permit costs around $20 at AAA and $15 at AATA, and is valid for one year from the date of issue.
Getting an IDP through AAA
The American Automobile Association has local clubs in most U.S. states and territories. You do not have to be a member to get an IDP, though members sometimes receive a small discount. Visit your nearest AAA office with your valid driver's license, a passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches), and proof of U.S. citizenship.
Processing usually takes one to two hours. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require an appointment. Call your local AAA club before you go to confirm their hours and whether you need to book a time. The cost is typically around $20, though prices vary slightly by location.
AAA also issues the IDP in multiple languages if you are traveling to countries where different languages are spoken. You can request a second-language version at the same visit for an additional fee, usually around $10 to $15.
Getting an IDP through AATA
The American Automobile Touring Alliance is a smaller network but is also authorized by the U.S. State Department. AATA offices are located in fewer cities than AAA, so you may need to travel farther or use mail service if no office is near you.
For in-person service, bring the same documents: valid driver's license, passport photo, and proof of citizenship. AATA's cost is typically around $15. Processing time varies by location, so contact your nearest office directly to ask about wait times and whether appointments are required.
AATA also offers a mail-in option if no office is convenient. You mail your documents to AATA's processing center, and they return the IDP by mail. This route takes longer — usually one to two weeks — but works if you cannot visit in person.
Documents you need to bring
Both AAA and AATA require the same three things: a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-sized photo, and proof of citizenship. The photo must be 2 by 2 inches and taken within the last six months. You can get one at most pharmacies, post offices, or passport photo services for $10 to $15.
Proof of citizenship can be a U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or passport card. A driver's license alone does not count as proof of citizenship, even though it is a government ID. If you do not have one of these documents, you will need to obtain it before you can get an IDP.
Bring the originals, not copies. Both organizations verify the documents in person before issuing the permit.
How long an IDP is valid and when to renew
An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date of issue. It expires on the same date each year, regardless of when you travel. If your IDP expires while you are abroad, it is no longer valid, so check the expiration date before you leave.
You cannot renew an IDP by mail or online. To get a new one, you must visit an AAA club or AATA office again with the same documents: valid driver's license, passport photo, and proof of citizenship. Plan ahead if you know you will be traveling near your IDP's expiration date.
Countries that require or recommend an IDP
Requirements vary widely. Some countries legally require an IDP; others do not require it but car rental companies will not rent to you without one; still others accept a U.S. license alone. Before you travel, check the specific rules for the country you are visiting on its government tourism website or through your car rental company.
Countries in Europe, South America, and Asia have varying rules. Some accept a U.S. license with an IDP; others accept a U.S. license alone if you also carry a certified English translation. A few require an IDP and will not accept a U.S. license under any circumstance. Car rental companies often have stricter rules than the law requires, so ask them directly what they will accept.
If you are renting a car, contact the rental company before you book. They will tell you exactly what documents they need. This is faster than trying to find the rule for the country itself.
Cost and processing time comparison
| Organization | Cost | In-Person Processing | Mail Processing | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAA | Around $20 | 1–2 hours | Not offered | Thousands of clubs nationwide |
| AATA | Around $15 | Varies by location | 1–2 weeks | Limited network, fewer cities |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with just an International Driving Permit and no U.S. license?
No. An IDP is only valid when you carry it with your actual U.S. driver's license. If you are stopped by police or asked by a rental company, you must show both documents. The IDP alone is not a license.
Do I need an IDP if I am just visiting another country and not renting a car?
Not usually. If you are not driving, you do not need an IDP. If you plan to use public transportation or hire a driver, your passport is sufficient. Get an IDP only if you will be driving yourself.
What if my IDP expires while I am traveling?
An expired IDP is not valid. If you will be abroad when it expires, get a new one before you leave. You cannot renew it while traveling — you must visit an AAA club or AATA office in the United States.
Can I get an IDP if my U.S. driver's license is suspended or expired?
No. Your U.S. license must be valid and current. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored or renewed.
Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?
No. An IDP is a translation document issued by AAA or AATA. An international license is a separate credential issued by some countries. The United States does not issue international licenses — only IDPs. Check what your destination country actually requires before you travel.