Requirements
Eligibility, photo rules, and where your permit is expected.
An International Driving Permit translates your existing license into ten languages. It is always carried together with your U.S. license — never instead of it.
- Minimum age
- 18 years
- You must hold
- A U.S. license
- Photos needed
- One
Eligibility
Who can apply
- 18 years of age or older
- Holds a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license
- License has at least 6 months of validity remaining
- Applying for travel, not to replace a suspended license
Photos
What makes a photo pass first time
Do this
- Taken within the last 6 months
- Plain white or off-white background
- Full face, front view, eyes open
- Head and shoulders centered in frame
- Neutral expression, mouth closed
- Sharp focus, good even lighting
Avoid this
- Sunglasses, hats, or head coverings (except for religious reasons)
- Filters, beauty modes, or heavy retouching
- Shadows on the face or background
- Other people or pets in frame
- Screenshots or photos of photos
- Selfies at an angle or too close to the lens
Supporting documents
What the official application requires
The same items the printed USIDA application asks for. Apply online and you attach them as images; apply by mail and you enclose them.
Passport photo
One digital passport photo that USIDA can review and print for the permit.
Upload once. USIDA checks it, keeps it with your application and prints the permit copy.
Driver's license — front
A photocopy of both sides of your U.S. driver's license.
All four corners visible, no glare over your details.
Driver's license — back
A photocopy of both sides of your U.S. driver's license.
Include the back even if it looks blank — the official form requires it.
Signed certification
A signed and dated application carrying the certification.
Drawn or typed on the signature step.
Submission deadline
How early to apply
USIDA processes an application in 5 business days, then your permit travels by mail. Apply before the deadline for your return shipping choice.
business days before departure
Standard mail — 5 days of USIDA processing plus about 8 business days in transit.
business days before departure
Expedited — 5 days of USIDA processing plus about 3 business days in transit.
business days before departure
International courier — 5 days of USIDA processing plus about 5 business days in transit.
Leaving sooner than that? Permits needed in 7 business days or less should be handled in person at a USIDA branch. Your permit must also become effective within 6 months of the application date, and it is valid for one year from that effective date.
The fine print
What your permit does and doesn't do
- Valid for one year from the effective date.
- Valid only in conjunction with a current U.S.A. or territorial driver's license, which must be carried with the permit at all times.
- Not valid for driving in the United States.
- Does not grant driving privileges — an IDP is a translation of your license, not a license.
- Must become effective within 6 months of the application date.
Ways to apply
Three ways to get your permit
Online is fastest to start; a branch visit is fastest if you're travelling within a week.
Online
Complete this application, sign electronically, and we mail your permit. Allow 5 business days for processing plus return shipping.
In person
Visit a USIDA branch if you need your permit in 7 business days or less. Bring your license; staff can take or upload one passport photo.
By mail
- —Your completed and signed IDP application form.
- —Two original passport pictures, each signed on the back.
- —$20 permit fee (check or money order from a U.S.A. based bank, made out to USIDA — no cash by mail).
- —A photocopy of both sides of your driver's license.
- —Optional: additional U.S. funds for expedited return mail.
Already overseas?
A permit can only be issued in the USA. Mail your application to USIDA/IDP, 1000 USIDA Drive, Heathrow, FL 32746, Attn: Mail Stop #28 and allow 5 to 7 weeks for international mail.
Why it matters
Why carry an International Driving Permit
Recognized in 150+ countries
An IDP is a valid form of identification in more than 150 countries and territories that honor the 1949 Convention on Road Traffic.
Translated into ten languages
Your license details are translated into ten languages so local police and rental agents can read them.
Only issuable in the USA
A permit can only be issued in the country that issued your license, so get it before you leave the United States.
Avoid fines and rental refusals
Driving without an IDP where one is required can mean fines, and many car rental companies require one at the counter.
Destinations
Where your permit is honored
More than 150 countries and territories honor an International Driving Permit. Rules change and rental companies can be stricter than local law.
Ready when you are.
Your progress saves as you go, so you can upload your photo later if you need to retake it.