Quick Summary:
- Apply through AAA or AATA only, not online-only IDP sites.
- Bring a valid US driving licence, two photos, and a completed form.
- Expect a modest fee, plus optional postage if you apply by mail.
- Use the IDP with your licence, it is a translation, not a licence.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a standardised translation of your US driving licence that can help overseas authorities and some rental desks read your credentials. If you are in the United States and planning to drive abroad, an IDP is often a sensible document to carry, even when it is not strictly required. For car hire in particular, it can reduce friction at pick-up, especially where staff do not read English easily or where local rules expect a permit alongside a home licence.
Crucially, there are only two authorised issuers for US residents under the relevant international arrangements: AAA (American Automobile Association) and AATA (American Automobile Touring Alliance). If a website claims to sell you an “instant IDP” without checking your original licence, treat it as suspicious, many countries and rental companies will not accept those documents.
What an IDP is, and what it is not
An IDP is not a replacement for your US driving licence. It is a booklet that translates your licence details into multiple languages and uses a globally recognised format. When driving abroad, you must carry your physical US licence and your IDP together. If you show only the IDP, you may be treated as unlicensed.
An IDP also does not grant new driving privileges. If you are not allowed to drive a certain vehicle class at home, the IDP does not change that. It simply helps confirm, in a standard way, the licence you already hold.
Who should get an IDP before travelling
You should consider getting an IDP if any of the following apply:
Your destination country commonly requests an IDP for foreign drivers, either by law or in practice during traffic stops. Your destination uses a non-Latin alphabet, which can make your US licence difficult to interpret quickly. You will be arranging car hire and want to avoid being turned away due to document uncertainty. You may cross borders during a trip, where requirements can change between neighbouring countries.
If you are only driving within the United States, you generally do not need an IDP. For domestic travel, your state-issued licence is the key document. If your plans include a US road trip and you want a straightforward way to arrange vehicles in different cities, Hola Car Rentals publishes location pages that can help you compare options for car hire, such as car rental at Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) and National car rental in Boston (BOS).
Where to get an IDP in the United States
US residents can obtain an IDP from either AAA or AATA. These are the recognised issuers. You can apply in person at selected offices or apply by mail, depending on the organisation and location.
Do not apply through third-party “permit” sites that charge high fees for unofficial documents. Many of these are simply translations with no standing. If you arrive at an overseas rental counter with an unofficial booklet, you risk losing time, paying cancellation fees, or being unable to collect the vehicle.
What you need to apply
Requirements can vary slightly between issuers, but most applicants should be prepared with:
A full, valid US driving licence that is not expired, suspended, or provisional in a way that disqualifies international use. A completed IDP application form from the issuer. Two passport-style photographs, usually recent, colour, and with a plain background. Payment for the fee. If applying by mail, a method for return postage and any required copies, as the issuer specifies.
Make sure your name, date of birth, and address match your supporting identification. If you have recently changed your name or address, resolve that on your driving licence first if possible, because the IDP is meant to reflect the licence details.
Step-by-step: how the process typically works
Step 1, confirm you are eligible. You must hold a valid US driving licence. If you have a learner permit or a temporary credential, check the issuer’s rules before applying.
Step 2, choose AAA or AATA. Pick the issuer that is most practical for you based on proximity or mail processing preferences.
Step 3, prepare photos and paperwork. Get the correct photo size and quality. Fill in the form carefully, especially licence number, issue and expiry dates, and any categories you are licensed to drive.
Step 4, submit in person or by mail. In-person submissions can be faster, but mail can be convenient if you live far from an office.
Step 5, check the details when it arrives. Ensure the IDP matches your licence information and is legible. Keep it with your licence and passport when travelling.
Fees, timing, and validity
IDP fees are typically modest, but you should check the current fee and acceptable payment methods with the issuer before you apply. If you apply by mail, factor in shipping costs and mailing time both ways. Applying well ahead of departure is prudent, particularly during peak travel periods.
An IDP is commonly valid for one year from the date of issue. It cannot extend the validity of your underlying licence, so if your state licence expires soon, renew it first. You also cannot renew an IDP in the same way you renew a driving licence, you generally apply for a new one after it expires.
How an IDP affects car hire abroad
Car hire rules vary by country and by rental company. Some places require an IDP for US licence holders by law. In other places, an IDP is not required, but staff may still ask for it if they cannot easily read the licence or if their company policy is conservative.
To reduce surprises, check three layers of requirements before you fly:
The destination country’s rules for foreign drivers, including whether an IDP is mandatory. The specific rental company’s terms for non-local licences and translations. The type of vehicle you intend to hire, especially larger vehicles, as some countries have stricter documentation checks for vans and premium categories.
If your travel is within the US and you are comparing car hire options between cities, you may find it helpful to review Hola Car Rentals pages by destination and brand, such as van rental in San Diego (SAN) and Thrifty car hire in Texas (IAH). While an IDP is an international document, understanding pick-up requirements and driver documentation expectations is always part of planning a smooth rental.
Common mistakes to avoid
Buying an unofficial permit online. If it is not issued by AAA or AATA for US residents, it may be worthless.
Applying too late. Leave enough time for mail processing or office availability, especially before holidays.
Forgetting the IDP is not a stand-alone document. Always carry your US driving licence with it.
Assuming one country’s rules apply everywhere. If you are visiting multiple countries, check each one.
Ignoring age and licence tenure rules. Even with an IDP, many rental firms require a minimum age or a period of holding a full licence.
What to carry when driving abroad
Alongside your IDP and US licence, it is wise to carry your passport, your rental agreement (if applicable), and proof of insurance or coverage documentation required in that country. Some destinations also require additional items in the car, such as reflective vests or warning triangles. Those are separate from IDP rules, but they can still affect your ability to drive legally.
If you are stopped by police overseas
Stay calm and present your documents clearly. In many countries, an officer may be familiar with the IDP format even if they are not familiar with your state’s driving licence layout. The IDP can help reduce misunderstandings, particularly around names, dates, and vehicle categories.
If an officer asks for a translation and you have an IDP, present it with your licence. If you do not have an IDP and it is required locally, you may face a fine or be instructed not to continue driving.
FAQ
Can I get an IDP entirely online in the United States? For US residents, the recognised issuers are AAA and AATA. You may start some steps online, but the permit must be issued through these organisations, not third-party websites.
Do I need an IDP for car hire in every country? No. Some countries do not require it for US licence holders, while others do. Even where it is not legally required, a rental desk may still request it as a translation.
How long does it take to receive an IDP? Timing depends on whether you apply in person or by mail, plus processing and shipping time. Apply well before departure so delays do not affect your travel plans.
Can I use an IDP to drive in the United States? An IDP is intended for international use alongside your home licence. For driving within the United States, your state-issued licence is what matters.
What happens if my US driving licence expires while my IDP is still valid? You cannot rely on the IDP alone. If your licence expires, you may not be legally entitled to drive, even if the IDP date has not passed.
