An International Driving Permit is a document that translates your valid driver's license into ten languages, but it is not a separate license and does not replace your home country's license

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a booklet issued by your home country that shows your driving privileges in multiple languages. It works alongside your regular driver's license — you must carry both together. The IDP itself grants no driving rights; it straightforward translates information from your existing license so police and rental companies in other countries can understand it.

The United States issues IDPs through the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Most other countries have their own issuing bodies. An IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request, and it costs between $15 and $30 in the U.S. You do not need to be a AAA member to obtain one.

The confusion around IDPs comes from the word "permit" — it sounds like a license, but it is purely a translation document. Some countries require one; many do not. Some rental car companies ask for one; many accept your home license alone. Whether you need one depends on where you are driving and what you plan to do there.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your existing driver's license into ten languages and must be carried with your actual license at all times.
  • In the United States, AAA and AATA issue IDPs for $15 to $30; you do not need AAA membership to obtain one.
  • Some countries legally require an IDP; others do not, so check the specific rules for your destination before you travel.
  • Rental car companies vary in their policies — some require an IDP, some accept your home license, and some accept either one.
  • An IDP is valid for one or three years and can be obtained in person at AAA offices or by mail in most U.S. states.

Which countries require an International Driving Permit

About 150 countries recognize IDPs, but fewer than half legally require one. Countries that do require an IDP include most of Europe (France, Germany, Italy, Spain), much of South America (Argentina, Brazil, Chile), and parts of Asia (Japan, South Korea, Thailand). However, the requirement often depends on your home country's license — a U.S. citizen driving in France may be treated differently than a citizen of another nation.

The safest approach is to check the specific rules for your destination country through its embassy or tourism board website. Many countries that do not legally require an IDP still recommend one because it removes ambiguity if you are stopped by police. A police officer in a country where English is not widely spoken can verify your driving status when ready rather than trying to interpret your home license.

Some countries accept an IDP but do not require it, and some accept neither an IDP nor a foreign license — they require you to obtain a local license or an International Driving Permit issued by their own government. This is rare but does happen in a few nations. The country's consulate or transportation ministry website will state their actual rule.

How to obtain an International Driving Permit in the United States

To get an IDP from AAA or AATA, you need a valid U.S. driver's license, proof of citizenship or permanent residency, and a passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches). You do not need to be a U.S. citizen — permanent residents can obtain one. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver's license; the IDP cannot be issued to someone whose license is suspended or expired.

You can explore in person at any AAA office or by mail. In-person applications are processed when ready; you walk out with your IDP the same day. By mail, you send your process, license, photo, and payment to AAA's processing center, and it typically arrives within two to three weeks. Both AAA and AATA charge the same fee: $15 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit.

You do not need to renew your U.S. driver's license to renew your IDP — they are separate documents with separate expiration dates. If your U.S. license expires while your IDP is still valid, the IDP becomes invalid because it is tied to your current license. If you renew your U.S. license, you will need a new IDP as well.

Rental car companies and International Driving Permit policies

Rental car policies vary widely. Some major companies — Hertz, Avis, Budget — state on their websites that they accept a valid U.S. driver's license alone and do not require an IDP. Others, particularly in Europe and Asia, list an IDP as preferred or required. The safest step is to contact the specific rental company and location where you will pick up the car and ask directly what documents they need.

Even when a rental company does not require an IDP, having one can speed up the rental process and reduce friction if there is a question about your license. Some companies charge a higher deposit or refuse to rent to drivers under 25 without additional documentation; an IDP can sometimes satisfy that requirement. It is inexpensive insurance against delays or refusals.

If you are renting a car in a country where an IDP is legally required and you do not have one, the rental company will likely refuse to rent to you, and you will not be able to legally drive. This is not a company policy choice — it is the law. Obtaining an IDP before you travel is far simpler than trying to find one after you arrive in another country.

International Driving Permit versus other travel documents

An IDP is sometimes confused with other travel documents. A visa is a separate document that grants you permission to enter a country; an IDP does not grant entry and is not a visa. A travel insurance policy covers medical or trip costs; an IDP does not. A vehicle registration document (sometimes called a "carnet") proves you own or are authorized to drive a specific car; an IDP does not.

If you are driving your own car across international borders, you may need a carnet (a customs document) in addition to an IDP. If you are renting a car, the rental company handles the vehicle documentation. An IDP only translates your personal driving privileges. You will still need a valid passport, any required visas, and proof of vehicle insurance for the country you are entering.

What to do if you lose your International Driving Permit while traveling

If your IDP is lost or stolen abroad, you cannot replace it in that country — you must wait until you return home and explore for a new one through AAA or AATA. In the meantime, you can still drive using your U.S. driver's license alone in most countries, though you lose the translation benefit. If you are in a country that legally requires an IDP and you lose yours, you should not drive until you return home and obtain a replacement.

To avoid this situation, carry your IDP and license separately — do not keep them in the same wallet or bag. Take a photo of both documents and store it in your phone or email. If you are traveling for an extended period, consider obtaining a three-year IDP instead of a one-year permit so you have coverage for multiple trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

No. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, you will need proof of vehicle insurance that is valid in those countries — your U.S. policy may not cover you. Check with your insurance company before crossing the border.

Can I drive with an expired International Driving Permit if my U.S. license is still valid?

No. An IDP is only valid when paired with a current, valid driver's license from your home country. If your IDP expires, you cannot drive legally in countries that require one, even if your U.S. license is still good. You must renew the IDP separately.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit by mail?

AAA and AATA typically process mail applications within two to three weeks. If you need one faster, visit an AAA office in person and receive it the same day. Some offices offer expedited mail processing for an additional fee; call ahead to ask.

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am only visiting for a few days?

It depends on the country and whether you are renting a car. Many countries do not legally require an IDP for short visits, and many rental companies accept a U.S. license alone. However, having one removes any doubt and costs only $15 to $30. If you are unsure, it is worth obtaining before you travel.

What if my U.S. driver's license has restrictions, like corrective lenses required?

The IDP will include any restrictions listed on your U.S. license. If your license requires corrective lenses, the IDP will state that in ten languages. You must follow those restrictions in any country where you drive.