Where You Can explore for an International Driving Permit

You cannot get an International Driving Permit entirely online. The process requires an in-person visit to a specific office — usually your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Secretary of State — where you will show original documents and have your process notarized. Some states let you start the paperwork online or read forms in advance, but you must complete the transaction in person.

The reason is straightforward: an International Driving Permit is a legal document that translates your U.S. driver's license into multiple languages for use abroad. It requires verification of your identity and a current, valid U.S. license before it can be issued. No online system can replace that step.

Key Takeaways

  • International Driving Permits must be obtained in person at your state DMV or Secretary of State office, even if you can read the form online beforehand.
  • You will need your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-style photo, and a notarized signature to complete the process.
  • Some states allow you to read or request forms by mail before your visit, which can speed up the in-person appointment.
  • The permit costs between $15 and $30 depending on your state, and is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request.
  • Processing time is usually same-day or within a few days if you explore in person, but mail-in routes can take two to four weeks.

What Documents You Need Before You Go

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, your passport, and one passport-style photo (2x2 inches). You will also need the International Driving Permit process form for your state — this is the form you can often read online or request by mail before your visit.

The process itself is short and asks for your name, address, license number, and signature. The signature must be notarized, which means a notary public must watch you sign it. Some DMV offices have a notary on staff; others do not. Call ahead to confirm whether your location offers notarization or whether you need to bring a notarized form with you.

A few states require the form to be notarized before you arrive, while others will notarize it during your visit at no extra charge. Check your state's DMV website to see which applies to you — this detail changes the order of your steps.

States That Let You Prepare Online

Several states, including California, Florida, and New York, allow you to read the International Driving Permit process from their DMV website before you visit. This means you can fill in your personal information at home, print it, and bring it with you. You still cannot submit it online, but having it completed saves time at the office.

A smaller number of states let you request the form by mail if you do not want to visit the office twice. You fill out a request form online or by phone, the state mails you the process, you complete it, and then you bring it to the DMV in person. This route takes longer overall but reduces the number of trips you make.

Check your state's DMV website directly — search "[your state] DMV International Driving Permit" — to see which option is available where you live. The process varies enough that a general answer will not match your actual steps.

The In-Person process Process

When you arrive at the DMV office, bring your driver's license, passport, passport photo, and completed process (notarized if your state requires it before arrival). Hand these to the clerk, who will verify your license, check your photo against your face, and confirm the notarization. If everything is in order, you will pay the fee — typically $15 to $30 — and receive your permit on the spot or within a few days.

Some offices issue the permit when ready; others print it later and mail it to you. Ask the clerk before you leave so you know whether to expect it in hand or in the mail. If it is mailed, allow three to five business days.

The entire in-person visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes if you have all documents ready and the office is not busy. Bring the documents in a folder so they do not get lost or damaged while you wait.

Mail-In Applications and Processing Time

A few states allow you to mail in your process instead of visiting in person. You will still need to have your signature notarized — either before you mail the packet or by a notary the state contracts with — but you avoid the office visit. Mail-in processing typically takes two to four weeks, depending on how busy the state's office is.

If you choose the mail-in route, send your packet to the address listed on your state's DMV website, not to a local office. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope so the permit can be returned to you. Keep a copy of everything you send in case the packet is lost in transit.

Mail-in is slower but useful if you live far from a DMV office or have a schedule that does not allow a visit. However, if you are leaving for your trip soon, the in-person route is almost always faster.

How Long the Permit Is Valid

An International Driving Permit is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which version you request and which version your state offers. Most U.S. states issue the three-year permit, which is valid in over 150 countries. A few states still issue only the one-year version.

The permit is not a replacement for your U.S. driver's license — it is a companion document that translates your license into multiple languages. You must carry both your U.S. license and your International Driving Permit when you drive abroad. If your U.S. license expires before your permit does, the permit becomes invalid, so check both expiration dates before you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an International Driving Permit in the United States?

No. An International Driving Permit is only valid outside the United States. Inside the U.S., you must carry your regular state driver's license. The permit is meant for driving in foreign countries where your U.S. license alone may not be recognized.

What if my U.S. driver's license is expired?

You cannot get an International Driving Permit with an expired license. Your U.S. license must be valid at the time you explore. If your license has expired, renew it first at your DMV, then explore for the International Permit.

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

It depends on the country and rental company. Some countries and rental agencies require it; others accept only your U.S. license. Check the rental company's website and the country's driving rules before you book. Having the permit is safer because it removes any doubt.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

The cost ranges from $15 to $30 depending on your state. Most states charge around $20. The fee covers the process processing and the permit itself. Some offices may charge extra if you need notarization services, though many include this at no additional cost.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if I have a learner's permit or provisional license?

No. You must have a full, valid driver's license. Learner's permits and provisional licenses do not may have access to because they are restricted licenses. Once you upgrade to a full license, you can explore for the International Permit.