International Driving Permit FAQs

Why should I carry an International Driving Permit on my next overseas trip?

The International Driving Permit (IDP) provides important information regarding your driver's license in eleven different languages, including English. When carried in conjunction with a regular drivers license, the IDP can help break down language barriers when traveling in non-English speaking countries. In addition, the IDP provides an additional source of identification; as an official document, the IDP is recognized in more than 150 countries today, by virtue of a treaty signed in 1949 by the U.S. and other foreign countries. The nominal $15 charge for an IDP buys priceless peace of mind.

Do I need an IDP in order to drive in foreign countries?

Some countries do not recognize a drivers license from the U.S., but they officially recognize an IDP (e.g. Hungary). Other countries honor a U.S. drivers license, but require a local language translation (e.g. Spain). The IDP satisfies both situations. However, although a country's government may not require an IDP, car rental companies in that country, such as Hertz, may require an IDP. Obtaining an IDP prior to departure can prevent potential hassles.

How do I obtain an IDP?

Complete a brief application form (available online or your nearest AAA office); provide two (2) passport-sized photographs with your signature on the back of them; provide a photocopy of both sides of your valid U.S. issued drivers license; and include a check or money order for $18.43 (the $15 permit fee, $1.43 tax and $2 for domestic mailing) in U.S. funds. You can either deliver this to a AAA office and receive your IDP while you wait, or you can mail the package to a AAA office in the U.S.

Can a foreign national visting the U.S. obtain an IDP from AAA?

An IDP must be issued in the same country that issued the drivers license. Therefore, if someone has a U.K. drivers license, their IDP must also be issued in the U.K.

I have a U.S. drivers license, but I am a citizen of another country. Where do I get my IDP?

The IDP must be issued in the same country that issued the drivers license. If your drivers license is issued in the U.S., the IDP must also be issued in the U.S. Contact your nearest AAA office.

My drivers license is from a U.S. territory (Guam, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands); where do I get my IDP?

If your drivers license has been issued by a U.S. possession, your IDP should be issued in the U.S. Contact a AAA office in the U.S., and the IDP can be mailed to them.

Hong Kong has been transferred from Great Britain to China; do I need an IDP to drive in Hong Kong?

The United Nations has notified the U.S. State Department that the treaty which applies to Hong Kong, at present, will continue to apply to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the name given to the territory by China. This notification should not be construed to mean that China now recognizes IDPs; the People's Republic of China is not a party to the treaty.

What happens if I receive a traffic citation when using my IDP?

The IDP holds no powers of its own; the IDP is valid only when carried in conjunction with a drivers license. Therefore, there is no separate driving record with an IDP. If you are stopped by a law enforcement officer when traveling in a foreign country, give the officer your U.S. drivers license and the IDP. If you receive a citation, it will be reflected on the driving record associated with your drivers license.

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