An International Driving Permit is a document that translates your US driver's license into ten languages, not a separate license

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a booklet issued by AAA that carries your driving information in English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Finnish. It does not replace your US driver's license—you must carry both documents together when driving abroad. The IDP is recognized by the United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals, which means it is accepted in most countries outside the United States, though some nations have their own requirements on top of it.

The permit exists because a foreign police officer or rental car company may not read English fluently, and your US license alone may not satisfy their legal requirements. An IDP removes that friction. It costs $20 and takes about 15 minutes to obtain in person at an AAA office, or you can order one by mail for the same price plus postage. The permit is valid for three years from the date of issue.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued by AAA and costs $20, whether you obtain it in person or by mail.
  • You must carry your US driver's license and the IDP together; the permit does not stand alone.
  • The IDP is valid for three years and is recognized in most countries that are signatories to the UN Convention on Road Signs and Signals.
  • Some countries have additional requirements beyond the IDP, so you should research your destination's rules before traveling.
  • AAA membership is not required to obtain an IDP, though members may receive a small discount at some locations.

Who issues the International Driving Permit and where to get one

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the only organization authorized by the US State Department to issue International Driving Permits. You cannot obtain one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, a notary, or any other source. AAA has over 1,000 offices across the United States, and most can issue an IDP on the spot during business hours.

To get one in person, visit your nearest AAA office with your valid US driver's license and a passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches). You will fill out form DS-11 or a similar AAA process, pay $20 in cash or card, and receive the booklet when ready. If you do not have a passport photo ready, some AAA offices can take one for you for an additional fee, usually $10 to $15.

If you cannot reach an AAA office, you can order by mail. read the process from AAA's website, include a passport photo, a photocopy of your driver's license, and a check or money order for $20 plus return postage. Mail it to your regional AAA office. Processing typically takes one to two weeks, plus mail transit time.

What documents you need to bring

You will need three things: a valid US driver's license, a passport-style photograph (2 by 2 inches), and proof of your identity if you are explore by mail. The photo must be recent—taken within the last six months—and show your face clearly against a plain background. Most drugstore photo services (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart) can produce passport photos for $10 to $15 if you do not have one.

Your driver's license must be current and not suspended or revoked. If your license is expired, you will need to renew it through your state's DMV before AAA will issue an IDP. If you are explore by mail, include a photocopy of the front and back of your license along with a photocopy of a second form of ID, such as a passport or state ID card.

Countries that recognize the International Driving Permit

The IDP is recognized in over 150 countries that have signed the 1968 UN Convention on Road Signs and Signals. This includes most of Europe, South America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. However, recognition does not mean the permit is your only requirement. Many countries require you to carry both your US license and the IDP, and some have additional rules about minimum age, insurance, or vehicle registration.

A few countries do not recognize the IDP at all or have phased it out in favor of their own systems. These include Australia, New Zealand, and some Caribbean nations. Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country, or check the travel advisory section of the US State Department website, to confirm what documents you will need to drive legally.

Rental car companies in most countries will accept an IDP as proof of your right to drive, though they may also ask for your US license. Some companies require an International Driving Permit specifically and will not rent to you without one, so confirm this when you book.

How long an International Driving Permit lasts and when to renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for three years from the date of issue. The expiration date is printed on the front cover of the booklet. Once it expires, you cannot use it to drive abroad, even if your US driver's license is still valid. You will need to obtain a new one from AAA using the same process.

If your US driver's license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid at the same time your license expires. You cannot renew just the IDP; you must renew your US license first, then obtain a new IDP. This means if you are planning a trip more than a year away, it may be worth getting the IDP now rather than waiting, since you will need to replace it anyway once your license renews.

What an International Driving Permit does not do

The IDP does not change your driving record, your insurance coverage, or your legal status to drive. It is purely a translation document. If you have a suspended license in the United States, an IDP will not allow you to drive abroad—your US license is still suspended, and most countries will not recognize driving privileges from a suspended license.

The IDP does not cover you for liability or collision if you are in an accident. You must arrange your own international auto insurance or may support your US policy covers you in the countries where you plan to drive. Many US insurance policies do not extend abroad, so contact your insurer before you travel. Rental car companies typically offer collision coverage as an add-on, but you should verify what is included.

The IDP also does not exempt you from traffic laws, speed limits, or local driving rules in any country. You are still subject to the laws of the country where you are driving, and a police officer can still cite you for violations. The permit straightforward makes it easier for them to understand your license information.

Cost and membership discounts

The standard cost of an International Driving Permit from AAA is $20, whether you obtain it in person or by mail. AAA membership is not required. However, some AAA offices offer a small discount—usually $2 to $3—to current members, so if you are a member, mention it when you explore.

If you need a passport photo taken at the AAA office, expect to pay an additional $10 to $15. If you order by mail, you will also pay return postage, which typically costs $3 to $5 depending on your location. The total out-of-pocket cost is usually between $20 and $40.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Europe?

Many European rental companies require one, though not all. Check your rental agreement or contact the company before you book. Some companies will rent to you with just a US license if you are over 25, but others will refuse. Having an IDP removes this uncertainty and is inexpensive insurance against being denied a rental.

Can I drive in Canada or Mexico with just my US license?

Yes. Canada and the United States have a reciprocal agreement, and your US license is valid in Canada. Mexico also recognizes a US driver's license, though you should carry your passport or passport card as well. An IDP is not required for either country, but it does not hurt to have one.

What if my passport photo is older than six months?

AAA may reject it. The photo must be recent enough that it clearly resembles you now. If there is any doubt, get a new one taken. A passport photo costs $10 to $15 at most drugstores and is faster than dealing with a rejected process.

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

No. AAA will not issue an IDP if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired. Your US license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, you must resolve that with your state's DMV first.

How do I know if my destination country recognizes the International Driving Permit?

Check the US State Department's travel advisory for your destination, or contact the country's embassy or consulate directly. You can also ask your rental car company—they will know whether an IDP is required or recommended for their location.