How to Obtain an International Driver’s Permit

This summer has seen a significant increase in U.S. travelers embarking on international journeys, the largest rise since before the COVID-19 pandemic.

With international travel fully revived, many U.S. travelers are once again eager to drive abroad. This necessitates adhering to the proper requirements for travel documents and obtaining the necessary permits for driving internationally.

If you're planning to drive in another country, you may need to secure an International Driver's Permit. Without an IDP, you might have to rely on public transport, private car services, or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft.

What exactly is an International Driver's Permit?

In essence, an International Driver's Permit translates your English driver's license into ten additional languages, including Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and Swedish.

It confirms that you possess a valid driver's license issued in your home location. For U.S. travelers, this means a license from a state or U.S. territory.

When driving abroad, you should carry the IDP—complete with your name, driving information, and photo—alongside your valid driver's license.

The IDP is recognized in over 150 United Nations member countries and serves as a valid form of identification in more than 175 countries. Wherever your travels take you, the IDP is likely to be accepted.

Do you need an IDP to drive in other countries?

Not every country mandates an International Driver's Permit, but many do. For instance, in Europe, countries such as Austria, Germany, Hungary, Italy, and Spain require the IDP.

How to Obtain an International Driver's Permit

Traditionally, two organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of State have issued IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). However, the AATA has announced it will cease IDP issuance, making AAA your best option now.

You don’t need to be a U.S. citizen to apply for an IDP, but you must be a permanent resident of a U.S. state or territory and hold a driver's license from that jurisdiction. Additionally, you must be at least 18 years old and have held your driver's license for a minimum of six months.

Your driver's license must remain valid for at least six months beyond the issuance date of your IDP. If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot apply for an International Driver's Permit.

Download the AAA IDP application. (PDF link.)

The application process requires you to complete a form and submit it—either in person or by mail—along with two identical passport-style photos (two inches by two inches), a signed copy of both sides of your driver's license, and an application fee. (The fee is $20 per person, plus any applicable shipping costs for either the AAA or AATA application.)

Residents of Canada can apply for the IDP through the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA). Download the CAA application (PDF link).

An International Driver's Permit is typically valid for one year or until your current driver's license expires.

When to submit your application for the IDP

Getting an IDP can take anywhere from a day to a few weeks, so it's wise to plan ahead. You can obtain an IDP up to six months before your intended travel date. For example, if you’re heading out on July 1, you can apply as early as January. While you likely won’t need all that time, it’s good to have some flexibility.

Familiarize yourself with the IDP regulations and driving laws.

Ensure that the countries you plan to visit accept the International Driver's Permit.

It's crucial to understand the local driving laws thoroughly. This may involve acquiring a "vignette," which is a sticker allowing you to drive in specific areas. Typically, rental cars come with this sticker, or the rental company can guide you on where to get one.

Above all, don't forget your driver's license. The IDP serves as a "permit" and is not a standalone "license," meaning it must be used alongside your home country driver’s license to be valid.

Is it possible to drive abroad without an IDP?

While obtaining an International Driver's Permit is common, some countries allow you to drive with a translated version of your driver's license. However, given the widespread acceptance of the IDP, why not have it instead of translating your license into multiple languages?

In summary

Acquiring an International Driver's Permit is simple and relatively low-cost.

Consider getting one even if you don’t plan to drive during your upcoming international trip. It can serve as a convenient form of identification, with your information presented in a format that officials recognize.