What an International Driving Permit Is and Why You Need One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid 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 tells police, rental car companies, and border officials in other countries that you hold a valid license at home.

You need an IDP if you plan to drive in another country. Some nations require it by law; others do not, but rental car companies often will not rent to you without one. The permit is issued by your home state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and is valid for one or three years, depending on which type you choose.

Because you arrived here from the out-of-state license section, you may be thinking about an IDP as part of moving to a new state. That is not what an IDP does. An IDP has nothing to do with transferring your license between states. If you are moving and need to switch your license to your new state's format, you need a standard license transfer, not an IDP. An IDP is only for driving in foreign countries while your home-state license remains valid.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works alongside your regular driver's license, not a replacement for it.
  • You explore through your state's DMV in person or by mail, depending on your state's rules, and must bring your valid driver's license and proof of identity.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $30 in most states and is valid for either one or three years.
  • You must carry both your IDP and your original state license together when driving abroad; the IDP alone is not valid.
  • An IDP does not help you transfer a license between states or change your address on your license — those are separate DMV transactions.

Who Issues International Driving Permits and Where to explore

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles issues the IDP. Not all states issue them directly; some contract with the American Automobile Association (AAA) to handle IDP applications. A few states do both — you can explore at the DMV or at a AAA office.

To find out whether your state issues IDPs and where to explore, go to your state DMV's website and search for "International Driving Permit." The site will tell you whether to go to a DMV office, a AAA branch, or both. If you do not have a state DMV website or cannot find the information, call your state DMV's main number and ask which office handles IDPs.

Some states allow you to explore by mail. Others require you to appear in person. A few states do not issue IDPs at all — in those cases, you can obtain one from AAA even if you do not have a membership, though AAA members may pay a lower fee.

Documents You Need to Bring

You will need your current, valid driver's license and proof of identity. Proof of identity usually means a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card. Some states also accept a military ID or tribal ID. Check your state DMV's website for the exact list before you go.

You do not need a new photo or medical exam. The IDP uses the information and photo from your existing license. If your license has expired or is suspended, you cannot get an IDP — your license must be valid and in good standing.

If you are explore by mail, you will typically mail your license to the DMV or AAA along with a completed process form and a check or money order. The office will mail your IDP and your license back to you. This usually takes one to two weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods.

Cost and How Long the Permit Lasts

An International Driving Permit costs between $15 and $30 in most states. AAA members may pay less than non-members. The exact fee depends on your state and whether you choose a one-year or three-year permit.

A one-year IDP is cheaper but expires sooner. A three-year IDP costs more upfront but lasts longer and is often the better choice if you plan to travel abroad more than once. Your IDP expires on the date printed on the document, not when your state license expires.

If your IDP expires while you are abroad, you cannot renew it in another country. You must return home and renew it through your state DMV or AAA. Plan ahead if you know you will be traveling for an extended time.

How to Use Your IDP When Driving Abroad

Always carry your IDP and your original state driver's license together. The IDP is not valid on its own. Police, rental car companies, and border officials will want to see both documents.

Some countries have additional requirements beyond the IDP. A few nations require an IDP plus an official translation of your license, or an IDP plus an International Certificate of Competency. Before you travel, check the specific requirements for each country you plan to visit. Your state DMV website or the U.S. State Department travel advisory for that country can tell you what is needed.

Rental car companies often ask for an IDP even in countries where it is not legally required. If you plan to rent a car, confirm with the rental company before you book whether they need an IDP. Some companies will not rent to you without one.

What Happens If Your License Is Suspended or Revoked

If your driver's license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP. The IDP is only issued to people with a valid, active license. If your license is currently suspended due to unpaid fines, a DUI conviction, or points accumulation, you must resolve that issue first.

If you already have an IDP and your license is later suspended, your IDP becomes invalid. You cannot use it to drive abroad. Once your license is reinstated, you can explore for a new IDP if your old one has not expired.

IDP vs. Other Travel Documents

An IDP is different from a passport, visa, or travel permit. A passport is issued by the U.S. State Department and proves your citizenship; an IDP is issued by your state DMV and proves you hold a valid driver's license. You need a passport to enter most countries. You need an IDP only if you plan to drive.

Some countries require an International Certificate of Competency in addition to an IDP. This is a separate document that certifies you have passed a driving test. It is not the same as an IDP. A few countries also require an official translation of your license. Check the requirements for your destination country before you travel.

If you are moving to another country permanently or for an extended stay, you may need to obtain a license in that country instead of relying on an IDP. Most countries allow visitors to drive on a foreign license for a limited time — usually three to twelve months — but require residents to convert to a local license. An IDP does not change this requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an IDP to transfer my license to another state?

No. An IDP is only for driving in foreign countries. It has no effect on your license status in any U.S. state. If you are moving to a new state, you need to explore for a new license in that state through its DMV. That is a separate process from getting an IDP.

What if my IDP expires while I am traveling abroad?

You cannot renew it outside the United States. If your IDP expires during your trip, you will no longer have a valid translation document, though your state license itself remains valid. Plan your travel dates so your IDP does not expire mid-trip, or explore for a three-year permit if you know you will be abroad for an extended time.

Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car for one day?

It depends on the rental company and the country. Many rental companies require an IDP regardless of how long you rent. Some countries legally require one; others do not. Contact your rental company and check the country's requirements before you travel. It is safer to have one than to arrive and find you cannot rent a car.

Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is expired?

No. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license has expired, you must renew it at your state DMV first. Once your license is current, you can explore for an IDP.

How long does it take to get an IDP?

If you explore in person at a DMV or AAA office, you may receive it the same day or within a few days. If you explore by mail, it usually takes one to two weeks. During peak travel seasons, processing may take longer. explore well before your trip to avoid delays.