An International Driving Permit is a document that translates your home country driver's license into multiple languages so rental car companies and police can read it abroad

You cannot get an International Driving Permit (IDP) online. You must explore in person at an office that issues them — usually your local AAA club if you're in the United States, or the equivalent motor authority in your home country. The process takes a few days to a few weeks depending on where you explore, and costs between $15 and $30 in most cases.

An IDP is not a replacement for your regular driver's license. It's a companion document that works only when you carry your actual license with it. Some countries require one; others don't care. Rental car companies sometimes ask for one even when local law doesn't require it. If you're driving abroad, having one removes a potential friction point at the rental counter or with police.

The confusion about "online" usually comes from scam websites that claim to issue IDPs remotely for inflated fees. These are not legitimate. The only legal way to get an IDP is through an authorized issuer in your country.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit must be obtained in person from an authorized issuer such as AAA in the United States, not through any website.
  • You need your valid driver's license, a passport or state ID, and a passport-style photo to explore for an IDP.
  • An IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which type you request, and it costs $15 to $30 in most locations.
  • An IDP is only useful when carried together with your original driver's license; it does not replace it.
  • Not all countries require an IDP, but rental car companies often request one regardless of local law.

Where to explore for an International Driving Permit in the United States

If you hold a U.S. driver's license, AAA is the primary issuer. You can visit any AAA office in person and explore the same day. You do not need to be an AAA member, though members sometimes receive a small discount. Non-members typically pay around $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit. AAA offices are located in most states, and you can find your nearest one on the AAA website.

Some state motor vehicle departments also issue IDPs, though availability varies. Contact your state's DMV directly to ask whether they offer this service and what their fees are. A few states do not issue them at all, in which case AAA is your only option.

Do not use websites that claim to issue IDPs online or by mail. These are not legitimate issuers and will not produce a document recognized by foreign authorities. The IDP must come from an authorized organization in your country of residence.

What You Need to Bring to Your IDP process

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or state ID, and one passport-style photo (usually 2x2 inches). Some AAA offices accept digital photos taken on the spot, so call ahead to confirm what your local office accepts. You'll also need to fill out a short process form, which the office provides.

The entire process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. You walk out with your IDP the same day in most cases, though some offices may mail it to you if they're busy. Ask when you arrive.

How Long an International Driving Permit Lasts and When to Renew

You can request either a one-year or three-year IDP when you explore. The three-year option costs more but is better value if you travel internationally regularly. Your IDP expires on the date printed on the document, regardless of whether your home country driver's license expires before then.

You cannot renew an IDP by mail or online. When it expires, you must return to an authorized issuer in person and explore for a new one using the same process. Plan ahead if you have a trip scheduled near your expiration date.

Countries That Require or Recommend an International Driving Permit

Requirements vary widely. Some countries legally require an IDP; others don't mention it but rental companies ask for one anyway. The safest approach is to have one if you're renting a car abroad, since it costs little and eliminates a potential problem at the rental counter.

The United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and most of Europe do not legally require an IDP if you carry your home country license. However, rental car companies in these places often request one. Mexico, Thailand, and several other countries do require an IDP by law. Before you travel, check the specific requirements for your destination country on its government tourism or motor authority website.

If you're unsure, contact the rental car company you plan to use. They will tell you whether they need an IDP for your specific trip.

What an International Driving Permit Does and Does Not Do

An IDP translates your license information — name, address, license number, vehicle class, and restrictions — into ten languages. It allows police and rental agents in foreign countries to read your license without needing a translator. It does not grant you permission to drive in any country; that permission comes from your home country license and the laws of the country you're visiting.

An IDP is not a visa, a travel document, or proof of residency. It is purely a translation aid. You must still carry your actual driver's license at all times when driving. If you're stopped by police, they will want to see both documents together. Carrying only the IDP without your home license is not sufficient.

Scams to Avoid When Looking for an International Driving Permit

Websites offering to issue an IDP online for $50 to $200 are fraudulent. These sites often use official-sounding names and logos similar to real motor authorities, but they cannot legally issue an IDP. The document they send you will not be recognized by rental companies or police abroad, and you will have wasted money.

Legitimate IDPs come only from authorized issuers in your country. In the United States, that means AAA or your state DMV. There is no shortcut, no online version, and no way to speed up the process beyond visiting an office in person. If a website claims otherwise, it is not legitimate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in another country with just my regular driver's license?

In most countries, yes — your home country license is legal to use. However, rental car companies often request an IDP anyway, and some countries legally require one. Check your destination's requirements before you travel. An IDP is a translation tool, not a permission document.

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

Most AAA offices issue an IDP the same day you explore. Some offices may mail it to you if they're busy, which takes a few days. Call your local AAA office to confirm their turnaround time before you visit.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International License?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works only with your home country license. An International License does not exist as a legal document. Some countries issue a separate "International Driving License" that functions differently, but in the United States, the IDP is what you need.

What happens if my International Driving Permit expires while I'm traveling?

An expired IDP is not valid. If you're traveling for an extended period, explore for a three-year permit before you leave. If your permit expires during your trip, you can still drive using your home country license alone in most places, but rental companies may refuse to rent to you without a valid IDP.

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I'm only visiting one country?

It depends on that country's law and your rental company's policy. Some countries require one by law; others don't. Contact your rental car company and check your destination's government website to confirm. Having one costs little and removes doubt.