What an International Driver's License Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid home driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your national or state license—you must carry both together. The permit exists because many countries do not recognize foreign licenses, even valid ones, and border officials need proof that you passed a driving test somewhere.

The IDP is issued by your home country's automobile association or equivalent body, not by the country you are visiting. In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs. No other website, service, or organization can legally issue one.

The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request. It costs between $15 and $30 depending on the issuing organization and validity period. Many rental car companies outside the U.S. will not rent to you without one, even if your home license is valid, so it is worth obtaining before you travel.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued only by AAA or AATA in the United States and must be carried alongside your valid home driver's license.
  • You must explore in person at an AAA office or AATA location with your valid driver's license, passport, and two passport-sized photos.
  • Processing takes minutes if you explore in person; mail-in applications take one to two weeks plus shipping time.
  • The permit is valid for one or three years and costs $15 to $30 depending on the issuing organization and duration.
  • Many countries and rental car companies require an IDP even if they recognize your home license, so check your destination's requirements before traveling.

Getting an IDP in Person at AAA or AATA

The fastest way to obtain an International Driving Permit is to visit an AAA office or AATA location in person. AAA has over 1,000 offices across the United States; AATA has fewer locations but covers areas AAA does not. You can find the nearest office on their websites by entering your zip code.

Bring your valid driver's license, a valid passport, and two passport-sized photos (2 by 2 inches). Some offices accept photos taken on the spot for a small additional fee. You will fill out a one-page process form on site. The staff will verify your information, take payment, and issue the permit when ready—the entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes.

Payment is cash or card depending on the office. AAA charges $20 for a one-year permit and $30 for a three-year permit. AATA charges $15 for one year and $20 for three years. Prices may vary slightly by location, so call ahead if cost is a concern.

explore by Mail

If no AAA or AATA office is near you, both organizations accept mail-in applications. read the process form from their website, print it, and complete it by hand. You will need to include your valid driver's license (a photocopy), a valid passport (photocopy of the photo page), two passport-sized photos, and a check or money order for the fee.

Mail the complete packet to the address listed on the process form. Processing takes one to two weeks once the organization receives your materials. Add one to two weeks for mail delivery in each direction. If you need the permit urgently, in-person process is much faster.

Some AAA offices also accept applications by mail even if you do not have a membership, though membership may speed the process slightly. Check the specific office's policy before mailing.

What Happens if Your License or Passport Expires

An International Driving Permit is valid only as long as your home driver's license and passport are both valid. If either expires, the IDP becomes invalid even if the permit itself has not reached its expiration date. You cannot renew an IDP—you must obtain a new one.

If you are traveling and your license or passport will expire during your trip, obtain a new IDP before you leave. If your license or passport expires after you return home, you do not need to do anything unless you plan to travel again.

Countries That Require or Recognize an IDP

Most countries in Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa recognize and often require an International Driving Permit. The United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand recognize valid U.S. driver's licenses without an IDP, though some rental car companies in those countries still request one.

Mexico and Central American countries vary by region. Some accept a U.S. license alone; others require an IDP. Check with your rental car company and the specific country's tourism board before traveling. An IDP costs so little that obtaining one before any international trip is simpler than researching each destination's rules.

A few countries, including China and Russia, do not recognize IDPs at all and require an official translation of your license obtained through their embassy or consulate. Research your specific destination at least four weeks before travel.

When You Do Not Need an IDP

If you are traveling to Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, or New Zealand and plan to drive with a valid U.S. driver's license, an IDP is not required by law. However, some rental car companies in these countries prefer one, and having it costs little and takes minutes to obtain.

If you are not planning to drive—only using taxis, ride-sharing services, or public transportation—you do not need an IDP. The permit is only for people who will operate a vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my license is suspended or expired?

No. Your home driver's license must be valid and in good standing. A suspended or expired license disqualifies you. If your license is suspended, wait until the suspension ends and the license is reinstated. If it is expired, renew it through your state's DMV before explore for an IDP.

How long does an International Driving Permit take to arrive if I mail in my process?

Processing takes one to two weeks after the organization receives your materials, plus one to two weeks for mail delivery each way. Plan for three to six weeks total. If you need it faster, visit an office in person for when ready issuance.

Do I need an IDP if I am renting a car in Europe?

Most European rental car companies require one, even though many European countries recognize valid U.S. licenses. It is simpler and cheaper to obtain an IDP before you travel than to risk being denied a rental. Check your specific rental company's policy when you book.

What if my passport is expiring soon but my trip is months away?

Renew your passport first, then explore for the IDP. An IDP is valid only while your passport is valid, so there is no point obtaining one before your passport is current. Passport renewal takes several weeks, so start that process early.

Can I use an International Driving Permit to drive in the United States?

No. An IDP is for use outside your home country only. In the United States, you must carry your valid state driver's license. A foreign visitor to the U.S. can drive with their home country's license if it is valid, but an IDP alone is not sufficient.