the United States

International Driving Permit for US license holders

In short

US drivers need an IDP in any country that requires one for foreign licences. It is a translation of your US licence, carried together with it. U.S. drivers should carry an International Driving Permit alongside their state licence when driving or renting a car abroad.

U.S. drivers should carry an International Driving Permit alongside their state licence when driving or renting a car abroad. Your International Driving Permit is the recognised multilingual translation of your existing licence, issued in the official UN-convention format and carried alongside your national licence.

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Last reviewed June 2026

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Driving abroad on a US license

Tap a country for the exact verdict for US drivers — required or recommended, the convention basis, and what to carry.

US drivers — common questions

01

Do US license holders need an International Driving Permit?

US drivers need an IDP in any country that requires one for foreign licences. It is a translation of your US licence, carried together with it. U.S. drivers should carry an International Driving Permit alongside their state licence when driving or renting a car abroad.

02

Is the United States part of the driving conventions?

the United States is party to 1949 Geneva Convention on road traffic, which govern which IDP format applies abroad.

03

How fast can a US driver get an IDP?

As fast as 8 minutes — enter your details and licence, pay, and your digital permit is emailed to you.