International Driving Permit FAQ

An International Driving Permit is an official document that translates your domestic driver's license into 12 languages. It is recognized in over 150 countries and is used alongside your regular license when driving abroad. An IDP is not a standalone license - you must always carry your valid national driver's license with it.

It depends on your destination and which country issued your license. For US license holders, Italy, France and Japan require an IDP. Spain and Greece do not strictly require one for a short tourist stay, but both are worth carrying one for - Spain's DGT advises non-EU visitors to get an international permit, and the US Embassy in Greece recommends one because rental companies may ask for it. The UK, Ireland and Germany accept a valid US license without one for short visits, and Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP either. Requirements change, so confirm with the destination's embassy or your automobile association before you travel.

In the United States, you can get one through AAA (the American Automobile Association) for about $20. In other countries, contact your national automobile association - for example, CAA in Canada, the Post Office in the UK, or ADAC in Germany. You will typically need a completed application, two passport-sized photos, and a copy of your valid driver's license.

An IDP issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention is valid for 1 year from the date of issue. Some countries issue IDPs under the 1968 Vienna Convention, which can be valid for up to 3 years. Your IDP cannot extend beyond the validity of your underlying driver's license.

The terms are often used interchangeably, but technically there is no such thing as an "international driver's license." The correct and legal term is International Driving Permit (IDP). Be cautious of websites selling "international driver's licenses" - these are not officially recognized. A legitimate IDP can only be obtained through authorized organizations in your country.

In many countries you can rent a car with just your domestic license, especially if it is in English. However, some rental agencies require an IDP as part of their policy, even when the country does not legally mandate one. Rental agencies in countries such as Italy, Japan, and Greece commonly require one. Check both the country's legal requirements and the rental company's terms before traveling.

Having an English-language license helps in some countries but does not guarantee you can drive without an IDP. Italy, France and Japan require an IDP from US license holders regardless of the language on the license, and Spain and Greece both recommend one. Elsewhere the language matters: New Zealand only requires an IDP or translation if your license is not in English. Even where it is not legally required, an IDP is useful during police stops and at rental counters because it is a standardized translation local authorities recognize.

Costs vary by country. In the US it is approximately $20 through AAA. In Canada through CAA, about CAD $25. In the UK, £5.50 at the Post Office. In Australia, AUD $39–49 depending on the state. Most countries offer IDPs for a modest fee through their national automobile association.