Your Guide to Getting an International Driving Permit in the US

There’s a certain kind of magic that comes with the idea of driving in a foreign country. It’s the freedom to take that spontaneous detour, to discover a tiny village not listed in any guidebook, or to simply pull over and watch a sunset from a scenic overlook. It’s a level of travel that feels deeply personal and adventurous. But before you can live out your fantasy of cruising along the Amalfi Coast or exploring the Scottish Highlands, there's a small but crucial piece of paperwork you’ll likely need: an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Honestly, when I first heard about the IDP, it sounded like just another piece of travel bureaucracy designed to be confusing. I spent a good amount of time worrying about where to get one and if I was going to get scammed by a fake website. The good news? It’s actually incredibly simple and straightforward to get a legitimate IDP in the United States. You just have to know where to look. This guide is here to cut through the noise and give you the clear, direct path to getting it done.

So, What Exactly Is an International Driving Permit?

First things first, let's clear up a common misconception. An International Driving Permit is not a license to drive. It doesn't grant you any new driving privileges. Instead, think of it as an official, United Nations-sanctioned translation of your existing U.S. driver's license. The permit is a small booklet that translates your identity information into 10 different languages and is valid in over 150 countries.

Its primary purpose is to help law enforcement and other authorities in foreign countries understand your license. If you get pulled over or need to rent a car in a country where English isn't the primary language, showing an IDP along with your U.S. license can make the process infinitely smoother. It confirms in a standardized format that you have a valid license from your home country. Remember, you must always carry your physical U.S. driver's license with your IDP for it to be valid.

The Only Two Official Places to Get an IDP in the US

This is probably the most important part of the entire process. In the United States, only two organizations are authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). That’s it.

You will find countless websites online that claim to offer "international driver's licenses" or permits, often for a much higher price. These are not legitimate. An official IDP has a standard, regulated fee (currently $20, plus tax and any shipping or photo fees), and obtaining it from any source other than AAA or AATA could leave you with a worthless document and a lighter wallet. Stick to these two organizations to ensure your permit is authentic and will be accepted abroad.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Applying

Ready to get it done? The process is simple and the requirements are minimal. Here’s exactly what you need to do.

1. Check Your Eligibility

Before you start, make sure you qualify. You must be 18 years of age or older and hold a valid U.S. driver's license that will remain valid for at least six months from your planned date of travel. If your license is set to expire soon, it’s best to renew it before applying for your IDP.

2. Gather Your Documents

You’ll need a few things for your application:

• A completed IDP application form. You can download this directly from the AAA or AATA websites.
• Two original passport-sized photos. They must be recent and on a plain white background. Many AAA offices can take these for you on-site for a small fee, which is a convenient option.
• A photocopy of the front and back of your U.S. driver's license.
• The application fee. As of late 2025, the fee is $20.

3. Choose Your Application Method

You have two main ways to apply:

• In Person: This is the fastest way. Find a local AAA branch, bring your completed application, photos, and your actual driver's license. In most cases, you can walk out with your IDP in less than an hour. It’s the perfect option if you're short on time.
• By Mail: If visiting an office isn't convenient, you can mail your application. Send the completed form, your passport photos, the license photocopy, and a check or money order for the fee to the AAA or AATA office designated for mail-in applications (check their website for the correct address). This process can take a few weeks, so be sure to plan ahead.

An IDP is valid for one year from its date of issue. You can’t post-date it, so time your application so that the permit will be active for your entire trip. Applying a month or two before you leave is usually a safe bet.

A Few Final Tips Before You Hit the Road

Getting the permit is the main step, but there are a few other things to keep in mind. Always research the specific driving laws of your destination country. Some countries may have unique requirements or road rules that are very different from what you're used to in the US.

Also, remember that while many countries highly recommend an IDP, some legally require it, especially for renting a vehicle. Countries like Spain, Italy, and Greece are known for strictly enforcing this. Not having one could result in a hefty fine or being denied your rental car. For a $20 fee, the peace of mind is more than worth it.

Ultimately, securing an International Driving Permit is a small, easy task that unlocks a world of travel possibilities. It’s your key to freedom, flexibility, and the kind of unforgettable stories that only come from taking the road less traveled. Here’s to your next great adventure.