Planning to rent a car in Italy, cruise through the countryside in Japan, or explore hidden gems off the beaten path? If driving is part of your travel adventure, thereās one important document you donāt want to forget: your International Driving Permit (IDP).
šAs your travel advisor, Iām here to make sure youāre fully prepared ā not just with flights and hotels, but with the right paperwork to keep your trip smooth and stress-free. An IDP is more than just a formality; itās your ticket to driving legally and confidently in over 150 countries.
In this post, Iāll break down:
- What an IDP is
- Why you might need one
- How to get it easily before your trip
Letās make sure your road trip abroad is all about scenic views and unforgettable stops ā not unexpected fines or rental car headaches!
1. Legal Requirement
Many countries require an IDP in addition to your U.S. driver's license to legally drive. Without it, you could face fines or be denied a rental car.
2. Language Translation
An IDP translates your license into 10 languages, making it easier for foreign authorities to understand your credentials if you're pulled over or involved in an accident.
3. Rental Car Access
Some international rental car companies wonāt hand over the keys unless you show an IDP ā even if you have a valid U.S. license.
4. Peace of Mind
Itās a simple document that can save you from a lot of stress. If you're driving in unfamiliar territory, having all the right paperwork helps you feel more confident and prepared.
5. Valid in Over 150 Countries
Itās recognized in most countries around the world, especially those that are part of the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic.
āļø Pro Tip from Your Travel Advisor:
If you're planning a road trip abroad ā whether it's cruising the Amalfi Coast or exploring the countryside in Japan ā get your IDP before you go. Itās quick, affordable, and gives you one less thing to worry about on your adventure.
To get an International Driving Permit (IDP), your best and most reliable option is through AAA (American Automobile Association). AAA is the only private organization in the U.S. authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue IDPs
ā Hereās how you can get one:
1. Apply In Person at a Local AAA Branch
- Bring a valid U.S. driverās license
- Two original passport photos (can be taken at AAA)
- Completed IDP application (available online or at the branch)
- Pay the $20 permit fee
š Tip: Call your nearest AAA office first to confirm they offer IDP services.
2. Apply Online
- Visit AAAās IDP page
- Upload a digital passport photo
- Pay the permit and shipping fees
- Your IDP will be mailed to you (allow 5ā7 business days)
ā ļø Important: Avoid websites claiming to offer āinternational driverās licensesā ā many are scams. Only AAA and AATA (American Automobile Touring Alliance) are authorized to issue valid IDPs in the U.S.
Use the Department of State's website to search for the country you will be visiting. On that countryās page, see the "travel and transportation" section. It will explain your destinationās driverās license rules for visitors.
If you are not a U.S. citizen and are traveling to the United States, find out what identification you may need to drive legally.