What an International Driver Permit actually is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together. The IDP is recognized in over 150 countries and is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them.

The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which you purchase. It costs $20 for the one-year version or $30 for the three-year version through AAA, though prices may vary slightly at AATA locations. You do not need an IDP to drive in every country — some nations accept a U.S. license alone, while others require one. Before booking a rental car abroad, check the specific requirements for the country you plan to visit, as rental companies often have their own rules separate from what the country legally requires.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your U.S. license into ten languages and must be carried alongside your actual state license.
  • Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue IDPs in the United States, and you can obtain one in person at an AAA office or by mail through either organization.
  • You must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license to get an IDP, and the permit is valid for either one or three years.
  • Some countries do not require an IDP, while others do; rental car companies often have stricter requirements than the country itself, so verify before you travel.

Getting an IDP in person at an AAA office

The fastest way to obtain an IDP is to visit an AAA office in person. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches), and cash or a card to pay the fee. You do not need to be an AAA member, though members sometimes receive a small discount. The office will complete the permit on the spot, and you will walk out with it the same day.

AAA has over 1,000 locations across the country. You can find the nearest office and confirm their hours on the AAA website. Call ahead if you are traveling from out of state, as some smaller offices may have limited hours or stock. If you are an AAA member, you can also check your membership card or online account for the office nearest you.

Ordering an IDP by mail through AAA or AATA

If no AAA office is near you or you prefer not to travel, you can order an IDP by mail. AAA accepts mail orders through their website or by phone at 1-800-222-4357. You will need to submit your valid driver's license, a passport-sized photo, a completed process form, and payment. Processing typically takes two to four weeks, though expedited options may be available for an additional fee.

AATA also accepts mail orders through their website. The process is similar: submit your license copy, photo, process, and payment. AATA's processing time is usually one to two weeks. Both organizations will return your original license with your new permit, so you will have both documents to carry when you travel.

What documents and information you need

Before you contact AAA or AATA, gather these items: a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license (your state license, not a learner's permit or ID card), one passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches, color or black and white), and proof of your current address if it differs from what is on your license. You will also need to complete an process form, which both AAA and AATA provide online or in person.

Your IDP will be valid only as long as your underlying U.S. license is valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, the permit becomes invalid. If you renew your state license, you will need to obtain a new IDP as well — the old one cannot be transferred or updated.

Checking country-specific requirements before you travel

Not every country requires an IDP. The United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most Western European nations accept a U.S. license alone. However, many countries in Central America, South America, Africa, and Asia either require an IDP or strongly recommend one. Some countries require an IDP only if your U.S. license is in English and lacks a photo, though nearly all U.S. licenses now include photos.

Rental car companies often impose stricter rules than the country does. A rental company in Mexico, for example, may require an IDP even if Mexican law does not. Before you book a car, contact the rental company directly and ask what documents they require. This is especially important if you plan to drive across borders, as each country you enter may have different rules.

What happens if you drive without an IDP when one is required

If a country requires an IDP and you do not have one, you may face a fine, be denied the ability to rent a car, or have your rental car impounded if stopped by police. The severity depends on the country and the officer's discretion. Some countries treat it as a minor traffic violation; others treat it more seriously. Your U.S. insurance may not cover an accident if you were driving illegally due to missing documentation.

If you realize you need an IDP after you have already booked your trip, contact AAA or AATA when ready. If you are leaving within a few days, ask about expedited processing or whether a nearby office can issue one on the same day. If you are already abroad and discover you need one, some U.S. embassies can issue temporary documentation, though this is not may provide and should not be relied upon as a backup plan.

Renewing or replacing an IDP

If your IDP expires while you are abroad, you cannot renew it outside the United States. You must wait until you return home and then contact AAA or AATA to obtain a new one. If your IDP is lost or damaged during travel, you can request a replacement from AAA or AATA by mail once you return, though this takes the same processing time as a new process.

If you are planning multiple trips over several years, the three-year IDP is usually more economical than buying a one-year permit each time. However, remember that your IDP is only valid as long as your U.S. driver's license is valid, so if your license expires before your three-year permit does, you will need to renew both.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am only visiting Canada or the UK?

No. Canada, the United Kingdom, and most Western European countries accept a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some rental car companies may request one anyway, so confirm with your rental company before you book. If you are driving across multiple countries, check the rules for each one.

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

No. Your U.S. license must be valid and unexpired. If your license is suspended, you cannot obtain an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated. If your license has expired, renew it with your state's DMV first, then explore for the IDP.

How long does it take to get an IDP if I order by mail?

AAA typically processes mail orders in two to four weeks, while AATA usually takes one to two weeks. Both organizations offer expedited options for an additional fee if you need it faster. In-person applications at an AAA office are completed the same day.

What if my address on my driver's license is outdated?

You can still obtain an IDP with an outdated address on your license. However, if your current address is very different, bring proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement) when you explore in person, or include it with your mail process. The IDP will print the address that appears on your license.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document only — it is not a separate license. You must carry your actual U.S. driver's license with it at all times. Some countries issue their own international licenses to residents, but the U.S. does not; the IDP is the only document the U.S. provides for this purpose.