What to Know About International Driving Permits
What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
An international driving permit (IDP), often incorrectly referred to as an international driving license, is any valid, legal identity document that allows the holder to drive a private motor vehicle in any country or jurisdiction that recognizes the document. If you’re planning to drive in a foreign country, most major car rental agencies require that you provide an IDP. Depending on the country, the penalty for driving without an IDP can be quite serious, ranging from a steep fine to deportation.
IDP Requirements
If you’re a permanent U.S. resident and want to get an IDP, you must be 18 or older. You must apply for an IDP prior to leaving the country, but it is important to note that it may not be issued more than six months in advance of the desired effective date. The IDP is valid for one year after its issue date, and your driver’s license must be valid for at least six months after the effective date.
Reasons to Get an IDP
IDPs are accepted as a valid form of identification in over 180 countries. Should you need to communicate with foreign authorities in the case of an accident or traffic violation, this recognizable form of identification may be required. Plus, in many countries, you need to show both a U.S. driver’s license and an IDP—a driver’s license alone is not recognized as a form of identification. The permit also contains your name, photo and driver information translated into 10 languages, which can be very helpful if there is a language barrier. Make sure to research the specific country you are traveling to on the state department’s website (travel.state.gov) as some countries require other forms of documentation. One such country is Brazil, which requires the Inter-American Driving Permit. Even extended stays in Canada require an IDP, although it is not required in Mexico.
How To Receive Your IDP
IDPs are only available from AAA and the American Automobile Touring Alliance, which means they are available at all AAA Minneapolis locations. No appointment is necessary, and you do not need to take a test to receive an IDP. The IDP application can be filled out ahead of time or at our offices. You will need your valid U.S. driver’s license, two original passport-type photos (which can also be taken at our AAA offices) and $20. Once you have provided all of the necessary documents, your IDP will be ready in approximately 10 minutes. You can also mail your application with the necessary documents (a photocopy of both sides of your valid U.S. driver’s license, two original passport-type photos with your signature on the back of both, and $20) to any AAA Minneapolis office.
For more information, visit AAA.com/IDP.
