Where to Get an International Driver's License (And What You Actually Need)
If you're planning to drive abroad, you've probably heard you need an International Driver's License — though the correct term is an International Driving Permit, or IDP. Understanding what it is, who issues it, and where to get one can save you time, money, and hassle before your trip.
What an International Driving Permit Actually Is
An IDP is not a standalone license. It's a translation document — a standardized booklet that translates your existing driver's license into multiple languages so foreign authorities, car rental agencies, and police can read your credentials. It works alongside your valid U.S. driver's license, not instead of it.
IDPs are governed by two United Nations treaties: the 1949 Geneva Convention and the 1968 Vienna Convention. Most countries recognize one or both. Which treaty applies depends on the country you're visiting — and that matters when it comes to which IDP you obtain.
You must already hold a valid driver's license to qualify for an IDP. If your license is expired, suspended, or otherwise invalid, an IDP won't help you.
Who Is Authorized to Issue IDPs in the United States 🌍
In the U.S., only two organizations are federally authorized to issue IDPs:
- AAA (American Automobile Association)
- AATA (American Automobile Touring Alliance)
No other organization, website, or government agency issues legitimate U.S. IDPs. The DMV does not issue IDPs. If you encounter a third-party website offering to sell you an "international driver's license" for a high fee, treat that with serious skepticism — many are scams or produce documents that carry no legal weight.
Both AAA and AATA are recognized under the 1949 UN Convention on Road Traffic, which authorizes designated motoring clubs to issue IDPs on behalf of their country.
How to Get an IDP Through AAA
AAA is the most widely accessible option for most U.S. drivers. Here's how the process generally works:
Requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a valid U.S. driver's license with at least 6 months remaining
- Provide two passport-style photos
- Complete an application form
- Pay the applicable fee (typically around $20, though this can vary)
How to apply:
- In person at a local AAA branch — the fastest option, often same-day
- By mail — takes longer and requires sending your application, photos, and fee together
AAA membership is not required to obtain an IDP, though some branches may serve members first or offer different service timelines. Check with your local branch for specifics.
How to Get an IDP Through AATA
AATA functions similarly and is an alternative if AAA isn't convenient for you. Applications are typically processed by mail. Processing times and fee structures may differ from AAA, so verify current information directly through AATA's official channels before applying.
How Long Does an IDP Last?
Standard IDPs issued in the U.S. are valid for one year from the date of issue. They cannot be renewed — you apply for a new one when needed.
If your trip spans more than a year or you're a frequent international traveler, you'll need to plan accordingly and apply closer to your departure date.
Which Countries Require or Accept an IDP 🗺️
Not every country requires an IDP. Some countries accept your U.S. license alone. Others require the IDP as a supplement. A few countries require additional documentation beyond an IDP.
Variables that affect this include:
- The country you're visiting — requirements differ significantly between, say, Italy, Japan, and Mexico
- How long you'll be there — some countries allow short-term driving on a U.S. license but require an IDP for longer stays
- Whether you're renting a car — rental agencies often require an IDP regardless of local law, to protect themselves from liability
- Your visa or residency status — tourists vs. long-term visitors may face different rules
Before traveling, verify requirements with the embassy or consulate of your destination country and your car rental company if applicable.
Common Situations Where an IDP Matters
| Situation | Why IDP Helps |
|---|---|
| Renting a car abroad | Most agencies require it alongside your license |
| Driving in non-English-speaking countries | Translates your credentials into local languages |
| Traffic stops in foreign countries | Helps officers verify your license without a language barrier |
| Long-term stays abroad | Some countries mandate it after a certain number of days |
What the IDP Does Not Do
An IDP does not:
- Replace your driver's license
- Grant you driving privileges you don't already have
- Serve as identification for non-driving purposes
- Override local driving laws or age requirements
If your home license restricts you to automatic transmission vehicles, for example, those restrictions still apply abroad.
The Variables That Shape Your Situation
Whether you need an IDP — and how urgently — depends on factors specific to your trip:
- Your destination country's current requirements
- Your rental agency's policies
- The length and nature of your stay
- Whether you'll be driving through multiple countries with different rules
- How far in advance you're planning (mail processing takes time)
The process for obtaining an IDP is relatively straightforward for most U.S. drivers, but the question of whether it's required — and whether it's sufficient — for your specific destination is one only verified, up-to-date country guidance can answer.
