Get Your Free Guide to AAA International Driver's Licenses

What Is an International Driver's License?

An International Driver's License (IDL), also called an International Driving Permit (IDP), is a document that translates your current driver's license into multiple languages. It's not a replacement for your regular driver's license—it works alongside it. When you travel to another country, having an IDP can help local police, car rental companies, and other authorities understand the information on your license, even if they don't speak English.

The IDP was created through an international agreement signed in 1926 and updated in 1968. More than 150 countries recognize IDPs as a valid travel document. The permit includes your photograph, driving record information, and personal details translated into French, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Italian, Russian, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.

Many people think an IDP is required for international travel, but that's not always the case. Requirements vary by country and region. Some nations require one, others recommend it, and some don't recognize it at all. That's why understanding what your specific destination requires is important before you travel.

An IDP is typically valid for one or three years, depending on which version you receive. It's pocket-sized, printed on a tan-colored booklet, and fits easily into your wallet. The document contains several pages with information about traffic laws and regulations in different countries.

Practical takeaway: An International Driver's License is a translation tool that helps you communicate your driving credentials while traveling abroad. Research your destination country's specific requirements before assuming you need one.

Who Should Get an International Driver's License?

Anyone planning to rent a car, drive, or operate a motorcycle in a foreign country should consider getting an IDP. This includes vacation travelers, business professionals, military personnel stationed overseas, and long-term expats. However, the specific need depends on your destination and your plans.

If you're planning to rent a car from a major rental company like Hertz, Avis, or Enterprise, the rental agency often requires an IDP in addition to your regular driver's license. Many rental companies have this as a standard policy across multiple countries. Some companies may waive this requirement in certain countries, but it's safer to have the document rather than discover you can't rent a vehicle upon arrival.

Travelers to developing nations or remote areas should strongly consider obtaining an IDP. If you're stopped by police or involved in an accident, having a translated version of your license information reduces confusion and potential complications. In countries where English is not widely spoken, this document becomes especially valuable.

Business travelers who may need to drive rental vehicles in Europe, Asia, Latin America, or Africa should obtain an IDP before departure. Rideshare drivers, tour operators, and travel professionals who drive clients around should also have one on hand. Military members stationed overseas often need an IDP to drive on and off base in their host country.

If you're only using public transportation, walking, or taking taxis in your destination country, an IDP may not be necessary. However, there's little downside to obtaining one—the process takes minimal time and the document is inexpensive.

Practical takeaway: Anyone planning to drive, rent a vehicle, or operate a motorcycle abroad should explore whether an IDP is required or recommended for their specific destination.

How to Obtain Your International Driver's License

In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized by the State Department to issue International Driving Permits. Similar authorized organizations exist in other countries. You cannot obtain an official IDP online—you must visit a physical location with your documents in hand.

To get an IDP from AAA in the United States, you need to bring three items: your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and a completed application form. You'll also need to bring a passport-style photograph (2x2 inches) that's recent and in color. Some AAA offices can take the photo on-site for a small fee, which is convenient if you don't already have one available.

Visit your local AAA office in person—there are approximately 1,000 AAA locations across the United States. You can find your nearest office on the AAA website by entering your zip code. The in-person visit is required; they cannot process your request by mail or electronically. The appointment usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Bring cash or a card, as AAA offices accept various payment methods.

The cost of an IDP from AAA is typically $20 for a one-year permit or $35 for a three-year permit, though prices may vary by location. This is significantly less expensive than expedited passport services or other travel documents. Non-AAA members can still obtain an IDP, though AAA membership may provide a small discount at some locations.

In Canada, the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) handles IDP issuance. In the United Kingdom, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and post offices issue IDPs. In Australia, the Australian Automobile Association is the authorized provider. Each country has its own authorized issuing organization.

Practical takeaway: Locate your authorized IDP issuing organization before your trip, gather your required documents (driver's license, passport, and photo), and visit in person. Plan for a 15-to-30-minute appointment.

International Driver's License Requirements by Region

European requirements for an IDP vary considerably by country. France, Italy, Spain, and Germany recognize IDPs and many rental companies require them. Some European countries accept only an IDP along with your original license—the two documents must be presented together. The United Kingdom, while no longer part of the EU, also recognizes and recommends IDPs for drivers.

In Asia, requirements differ significantly. Japan, Thailand, China, and South Korea all recognize International Driving Permits. Japan actually requires an IDP for non-residents to drive legally—a regular driver's license alone is insufficient. Some Asian countries also accept IDP translations, but requirements change periodically, so checking with your destination's tourism board or embassy before travel is wise.

Latin American countries show mixed requirements. Mexico recognizes and strongly recommends an IDP for all visitors planning to drive. Colombia, Peru, and Chile also recognize IDPs, though not all may require them. Brazil's rules have shifted over time, so current verification is important. Rental car agencies in these regions typically require both a valid license and an IDP.

African nations have varying IDP recognition. South Africa, Kenya, and Egypt recognize International Driving Permits. However, in many African countries, road conditions, traffic enforcement practices, and legal systems differ significantly from Western countries. Having an IDP provides an additional layer of protection when driving in unfamiliar legal environments.

Middle Eastern countries including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Israel recognize IDPs. However, some Middle Eastern nations have additional licensing requirements or restrictions for foreign drivers. Some require visitors to obtain a local temporary license in addition to presenting an IDP and home country license.

A useful pattern: always bring your original driver's license and IDP together. Never present only the IDP. Your home country license remains the primary document, and the IDP serves as a translation and supporting credential.

Practical takeaway: Research your specific destination country's requirements on its official tourism website or embassy page. Regions have different rules—what's required in Europe may be optional in South America.

What to Know Before You Travel with an International Driver's License

An International Driver's License is not proof of your driving record or history. If you have past traffic violations, accidents, or a suspended license in your home country, an IDP does not hide this information. Police in other countries can contact your home country's authorities to verify your driving record. The IDP simply translates your current license status into multiple languages.

Age restrictions exist in many countries. If you're under 21 or over a certain age threshold in your destination country, local rental car companies may refuse to rent to you regardless of your IDP. Car rental policies vary—some companies won't rent to anyone under 25, and some charge higher insurance premiums for drivers under 30. Your IDP doesn't change these rental company policies.

Insurance requirements differ internationally. Having an IDP doesn't provide insurance coverage. Most U.S. auto insurance policies don't cover you when