Get your International Driving Permit for United States in 8 minutes

Planning an international adventure that includes getting behind the wheel? For American citizens and U.S. driver's license holders, an International Driving Permit (IDP) can be your passport to legally and confidently navigating foreign roads. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about what an IDP is, whether you need one, how to get it, and crucial tips for driving abroad.

Understanding the IDP is the first step to a smooth international driving experience.

More Than Just a Permit: The Purpose of an IDP

An International Driving Permit is an official document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into multiple languages (often 10 or more, including English, French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, German, Arabic, Italian, Swedish, and Portuguese). Its primary purpose is to allow foreign authorities, such as police and car rental agencies, to easily understand your driving credentials, especially in countries where English is not the primary language. An IDP is recognized in over 150 countries worldwide. It certifies what categories of motor vehicles you are authorized to drive based on your U.S. license (e.g., car, motorcycle).

IDP: A Supplement, Not a Replacement for Your U.S. License

It's crucial to understand that an IDP is not a standalone driver's license. You must always carry your valid U.S. state-issued driver's license along with your IDP when driving abroad. The IDP simply acts as an official translation and validation of your existing license; it does not grant any independent driving privileges. Furthermore, an IDP issued in the U.S. is not valid for driving within the United States.

The Legal Basis: International Conventions

The IDP system is based on international United Nations road traffic conventions, primarily the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic and the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. These treaties facilitate international road travel by standardizing certain rules among signatory countries. The IDPs issued in the U.S. generally conform to the 1949 Geneva Convention model.

This is a common question for American travelers. Here’s how to determine if an IDP is necessary for your journey.

Required vs. Recommended: Making the Right Call

Many countries legally require foreign drivers to have an IDP, particularly if their domestic license is not in the local language. Examples of countries where an IDP is often required for U.S. drivers include Italy, Spain, Japan, Austria, Greece, Hungary, and Poland.

In other countries, an IDP might be highly recommended even if not strictly mandated by law. This is often the case in countries like France and Germany, especially if your license doesn't include a photograph or isn't in English. An IDP can prevent misunderstandings with local authorities or rental agencies.

Your U.S. driver's license is generally accepted without an IDP in Canada and Mexico. Some other English-speaking countries, like the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, may also not require an IDP for short tourist stays if your license is in English. However, rules can vary by state or territory in countries like Australia.

Always check the specific requirements for your destination country before you travel.

Navigating Car Rental Agency IDP Policies

It's important to note that car rental agencies often have their own IDP policies, which can be stricter than local laws. Many rental companies worldwide require an IDP as a standard part of their rental agreement, regardless of the country's legal stance. They do this to ensure legal compliance, simplify communication, reduce their risk, and streamline insurance processes. Therefore, even if an IDP is only "recommended" by a country, a rental agency might still demand it. Always confirm the rental agency's requirements directly when booking.

Obtaining an IDP in the United States is a straightforward process.

Authorized Issuers: AAA and AATA

In the United States, only two organizations are authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue IDPs:

• American Automobile Association (AAA)
• American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)

You do not typically need to be a member of AAA to obtain an IDP from them, though members might receive discounts on photos or other services at some branches.

Are You Eligible for an IDP?

To apply for an IDP in the U.S., you generally must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Hold a valid U.S. state or territorial driver's license.
• Your U.S. license should typically be valid for at least six more months beyond the IDP's issuance date. An IDP cannot be issued with a learner's permit or temporary license.

The Application Process: In-Person, Mail, or Online

Both AAA and AATA offer multiple ways to apply:

• In-Person: Visit a local AAA branch. This is often the quickest method, with IDPs sometimes issued on the same day.
• By Mail: Download an application form from the AAA or AATA website and mail it in with the required documents and payment.
• Online: Both AAA and AATA offer online application portals. Note that AAA's online service may be through an affiliated portal like govWorks. AATA's online application is via aataidp.com. Even with online applications, the IDP is a physical booklet that will be mailed to you.

What You'll Need to Apply

Generally, you will need:

• A completed and signed IDP application form (available from AAA or AATA websites or offices).
• Two original, recent passport-sized photographs (2x2 inches), often requiring a signature on the back. Some AAA branches offer photo services for a fee. Online applications usually allow digital photo uploads.
• Your valid U.S. driver's license (original for in-person, photocopy of front and back for mail-in).
• The permit fee.

IDP Fees and Processing Times

• Fee: The standard fee for the IDP itself is $20.
• Additional Costs: You might incur extra costs for passport photos if you don't provide them yourself, or for shipping if applying online or by mail. Online applications may have a slightly higher total fee that includes photo processing.
• Processing Times:
  • In-person: Often same-day, sometimes within minutes.
  • Mail-in: Can take 10-15 business days or even 2-4 weeks, plus mailing time.
  • Online: Typically around 5 business days for processing, plus shipping time.
  • AATA notes their online application processing is active from Friday morning to Tuesday afternoon (Pacific Time) and they are closed Wednesdays, Thursdays, and holidays.

It's always best to apply well in advance of your trip.

How Long is an IDP Valid?

An IDP issued in the U.S. (1949 Geneva Convention type) is typically valid for one year from its date of issue. The IDP's validity cannot extend beyond the expiration date of your U.S. driver's license. IDPs are not renewable; you must apply for a new one each time. The permit must also become effective within six months of the application date.

Already Abroad? Getting an IDP from Overseas

If you are already outside the U.S. and realize you need an IDP, or if yours expires, you can still apply for one from AAA or AATA through their mail-in or online services. However, be prepared for longer processing and international shipping times, which could take several weeks (e.g., 5-7 weeks plus shipping for mail to AAA from abroad). Plan accordingly to avoid being without a valid IDP.

The U.S. Department of State and official issuers like AAA and AATA consistently warn travelers about fraudulent websites and unauthorized vendors claiming to issue IDPs or "international driver's licenses".

Key red flags of IDP scams include:

• Unofficial Issuers: Anyone other than AAA or AATA in the U.S..
• Inflated Prices: Charging significantly more than the official $20 permit fee (plus reasonable photo/shipping costs).
• Online-Only or Digital IDPs: Legitimate IDPs are physical booklet documents; services offering only emailed or digital versions are likely fraudulent.
• Claims of Special Driving Privileges: An IDP only translates your existing license; it doesn't grant new rights.

Using a fake IDP can lead to fines, vehicle impoundment, denial of car rental, legal charges, or significant travel delays abroad. Always go through the official channels.

Driving in a foreign country can be an incredible experience, offering freedom and flexibility. However, it requires careful preparation.

Always Carry Both Your U.S. License and IDP

As emphasized before, your IDP is only valid when accompanied by your original, valid U.S. state-issued driver's license. Keep both documents with you whenever you are driving.

Know Before You Go: Local Traffic Laws & Road Conditions

Traffic laws, road signs, speed limits (often in km/h), right-of-way rules, parking regulations, and general driving customs can vary dramatically from those in the U.S.. Research these thoroughly for your destination. For example:

• Driving Side: Most of Europe drives on the right, but the UK, Ireland, Malta, and Cyprus drive on the left. Japan, Thailand, and Australia also drive on the left.
• Alcohol Limits: Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits are often much stricter abroad, with many countries having zero-tolerance policies.
• Road Conditions: Be prepared for diverse road conditions, from modern motorways to narrow rural roads.
• Safety Equipment: Some countries require specific safety equipment in the vehicle (e.g., reflective vests, warning triangles).

International Auto Insurance: Are You Covered?

Generally, your U.S. auto insurance policy will not cover you when driving abroad, with potential exceptions for short trips to Canada and Mexico (verify with your provider). Even if it does, it might not meet the foreign country's minimum liability requirements.

• You will likely need to purchase separate international auto insurance or rely on coverage offered by the car rental company.
• Some countries have mandatory insurance types (e.g., liability insurance in Spain , theft coverage in Italy ).
• Lack of an IDP where required might invalidate your insurance coverage in case of an accident.

Age Restrictions for Driving and Renting

While the legal minimum driving age varies by country (often 18) , car rental agencies frequently impose their own higher minimum age requirements, commonly 21 or 25 years old. Drivers under 25 often face significant "young driver surcharges". Some agencies may also have maximum age limits.

Dealing with Local Authorities

If stopped by police, having an IDP can greatly facilitate communication, especially if there's a language barrier. Driving without a required IDP can lead to fines or other penalties. In some regions, tourists without IDPs might be vulnerable to exploitation by corrupt officials.

The most reliable sources for country-specific IDP and driving information include:

• U.S. Department of State: Check the "Travel and Transportation" section on the Country Information pages at travel.state.gov.
• Embassy or Consulate of Your Destination Country: Contact them for the most current rules.
• National Tourist Offices or Road Authorities of the Destination Country.
• AAA and AATA: While they issue IDPs, their country lists may not always be exhaustive or the most current for legal requirements, but they can offer general guidance.

For travel to certain Latin American countries, such as Brazil and Uruguay, an Inter-American Driving Permit (IADP) may be required or recommended instead of, or in addition to, the standard IDP (1949 Geneva type). AAA is also authorized to issue IADPs. If your itinerary includes these regions, specifically inquire about the IADP.

Driving abroad can offer unparalleled freedom and the chance to explore off the beaten path.

• Plan Ahead: Research IDP needs, local laws, and insurance well before your trip. Apply for your IDP early.

Err on the Side of Caution: Given the relatively low cost of an IDP ($20) and the potential hassles of not having one, it's often wise to get an IDP if there's any doubt about its necessity.