Booking & counter · Travelers
International Driving Permit (IDP)
Also called IDP, international driver's license
What it means
An International Driving Permit is a booklet that translates your driver's license into several languages in a standard format recognized under UN road traffic conventions. It isn't a license on its own: it's only valid alongside your home license. You get it in the country that issued your license, before you travel.
Why it matters
Some countries require one by law and some rental companies ask for it at the counter even where the law doesn't. Without it, you can be turned away at pickup, so check both the country's rules and the rental company's terms.
Wording by region
In the US, IDPs are issued only through the organizations the State Department authorizes; online sellers of "international driver's licenses" aren't the real thing.
Related terms
Related Driver's license requirements, License translation, Driving on the left, Cross-border authorization, Rental terms and conditions