Most U.S. states accept valid foreign driver’s licenses for car rentals and driving. An IDP is typically required only when your license isn’t in English or in specific states with stricter regulations.
Planning a road trip across the United States? Whether you’re dreaming of cruising down California’s Pacific Coast Highway or exploring the vibrant streets of New York City, understanding the documentation you’ll need to rent and drive a car is essential.
What Is an International Driving Permit?
An International Driving Permit serves as an official translation of your home country’s driver’s license into multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, and several others. Think of it as a universal translator for your driving credentials rather than a standalone license.
The document follows a standardized format recognized by over 150 countries that are signatories to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. It includes your photo, personal information, and the vehicle categories you’re authorized to drive, all presented in a way that law enforcement and rental agencies worldwide can easily understand.
It’s a translation tool, not a replacement. You must always carry both your original driver’s license and the IDP together. The permit has no legal validity without your actual license.
It has limited validity. Most permits expire one year from the date of issue, regardless of your license expiration date.
It’s issued by your home country. You cannot obtain or renew one while traveling in the United States. Only authorized agencies in your country of residence can issue legitimate permits.
Do You Need an IDP to Rent a Car in the USA?
The straightforward answer is: it depends on three factors: your home country, the state you’re visiting, and the rental company’s policies.
The United States doesn’t have a single federal law governing foreign drivers. Instead, each state sets its own requirements, which creates a patchwork of regulations across the country.
Generally speaking, if your driver’s license is printed in English and uses the Roman alphabet, you can drive legally in most states without additional documentation.
However, complications arise when your license is in another language or uses different characters such as Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, or Cyrillic scripts. In these cases, having an International Driving Permit becomes either legally required or practically necessary.
State-by-State IDP Requirements
Understanding state-specific rules is crucial for planning your trip. While researching regulations for every state you’ll visit might seem tedious, it can save you from legal headaches and rental refusals.
States Where No IDP Is Required:
The majority of states accept foreign driver’s licenses without additional permits, provided the license is valid and in good standing. This includes popular tourist destinations like:
- California: Accepts valid foreign licenses from all countries. The license must be current and include a photograph.
- New York: No IDP requirement. Your home country license is sufficient for visitors.
- Florida: Valid foreign licenses are accepted. The state even allows tourists to drive for up to 90 days without any additional permits.
- Texas: Recognizes foreign licenses without requiring translation documents.
- Nevada: Las Vegas welcomes international visitors with valid licenses from their home countries.
- Illinois: Chicago and the rest of the state accept foreign driver’s licenses.
- Massachusetts: No IDP needed, though having one can help with identification.
Foreign License Acceptance by State
The duration you can drive on a foreign driver’s license USA varies by state:
Standard Policy (Most States): Visitors can drive on valid foreign licenses for the duration of their tourist visa, typically up to 90 days for those entering under the Visa Waiver Program.
Extended Stays: If you’re in the U.S. for longer periods (study, work, or long-term stay), different rules apply. Most states require you to obtain a local driver’s license within 30-90 days of establishing residency.
Reciprocity Agreements: Some states have formal agreements with certain countries. For example, Canada and the U.S. have extensive reciprocity, making it seamless for Canadian drivers to rent cars and drive across American states.
Car Rental Company IDP Policies
While state laws dictate what’s legal, rental companies have their own policies that often go beyond legal requirements. Understanding these corporate rules is just as important as knowing state regulations.
Most major rental agencies follow similar guidelines: they accept foreign licenses but may request additional documentation based on the language and format of your license.
Enterprise IDP Requirements
Enterprise is one of the largest rental companies in America, with locations at nearly every airport and many city centers.
Their Policy: Enterprise accepts valid foreign driver’s licenses from most countries. However, if your license isn’t in English, they strongly recommend bringing an IDP to facilitate the rental process.
Age Requirements: International renters must be at least 21 years old, though drivers under 25 face additional daily fees ranging from $20-$35.
Additional Documentation: You’ll need a valid passport, a credit card in the renter’s name, and proof of return travel for some locations.
Insurance: Enterprise requires renters to have adequate insurance coverage. They offer their own policies, but you can also use coverage from your home country or credit card benefits if they extend to the U.S.
Hertz IDP Requirements
Hertz operates globally and has extensive experience with international renters.
Their Policy: Hertz requires an IDP if your license isn’t printed in English. This is a firm requirement, not just a recommendation. If you arrive without one and your license is in another language, they may refuse the rental.
Documentation They Accept: Original driver’s license, IDP (if required), passport, credit card, and return flight information.
Helpful Feature: Hertz maintains a database of acceptable foreign licenses. You can contact their customer service before your trip to confirm whether your specific license requires an IDP.
Avis IDP Requirements
Avis, part of the Avis Budget Group, maintains clear policies for international customers.
Their Policy: Similar to Hertz, Avis requires an International Driving Permit for any license not in English. They’re particularly strict at airport locations where staff process high volumes of rentals.
What They Check: The license validity, matching names across documents, and proper IDP authentication marks.
Budget IDP Requirements
Budget, another major player, serves budget-conscious travelers.
Their Policy: Budget “may require” an IDP for non-English licenses. The term “may require” means it’s at the discretion of the local rental office. Some locations are lenient, while others strictly enforce this requirement.
Risk Factor: Given the uncertainty, international travelers should obtain an IDP before traveling if renting from Budget to avoid last-minute complications.
Alamo IDP Requirements
Alamo is popular among tourists, especially at Florida destinations like Orlando.
Their Policy: Alamo accepts foreign licenses but reserves the right to request an IDP. Their policy states that “for your convenience” you should bring one, which is corporate language for “we might not rent to you without it.”
Family-Friendly Approach: Alamo tends to be more flexible than some competitors, but don’t count on leniency—arrive prepared with proper documentation.
National Car Rental IDP Requirements
National, which shares corporate ownership with Enterprise, follows similar policies.
Their Policy: Valid foreign licenses are accepted, but an IDP is required if the license isn’t in English.
Executive Benefits: National’s loyalty program members sometimes receive more lenient treatment, though the IDP requirement still applies.
Dollar and Thrifty IDP Requirements
These budget brands, owned by Hertz, follow parent company policies.
Their Policy: IDP required for non-English licenses. Given their budget positioning, these brands tend to enforce rules strictly to minimize risk.
How to Get an International Driving Permit
Step 1: Identify the Authorized Issuing Agency
Each country has designated organizations authorized to issue IDPs. In most countries, this is the national automobile association or the motor vehicle department.
For example:
- United Kingdom: The Post Office or select automobile associations
- India: Regional Transport Office (RTO) or recognized automobile associations
- Australia: AAA (Australian Automobile Association) branches
- Japan: Japan Automobile Federation (JAF)
- Canada: CAA (Canadian Automobile Association)
- Germany: ADAC or AvD automobile clubs
- United States: AAA (American Automobile Association) offices nationwide
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
The typical application requires:
- Your current, valid driver’s license
- Two passport-sized photographs (some countries accept digital submissions)
- A completed application form
- Payment for the processing fee
- Your passport or national ID (some jurisdictions)
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Depending on your country, you can apply in person or by mail. Processing times vary:
- In-person applications: Often issued same-day or within hours
- Mail applications: Typically 1-2 weeks, though some countries take longer
Step 4: Verify Your IDP
When you receive your permit, double-check all information is correct. Errors in your name, birth date, or license categories could cause problems at rental counters or during traffic stops.
Critical Timeline: Start this process at least three weeks before your trip. Don’t assume you can get one quickly, especially if your country only offers mail-in applications.
Validity Period: Most IDPs are valid for one year from the issue date. Some countries offer three-year permits, but verify this before assuming longer validity.
Driving in the USA Without an IDP: Risks & Penalties
Rental Counter Refusal
This is the most common issue. If you arrive at a rental location without the required documentation, the company will simply refuse to rent you a vehicle. They won’t make exceptions, even if you’ve prepaid or have a reservation confirmation.
This leaves you scrambling to find alternative transportation, which in many American locations means expensive taxis or ride-sharing services. In rural areas or small airports, you might find limited options altogether.
Insurance Complications
This is where things get seriously expensive. If you’re involved in an accident and your insurance company determines you weren’t properly documented according to rental agreement terms, they may deny your claim.
Border Crossing Issues
If you’re planning to drive between the U.S. and Canada or Mexico, immigration officials may question your documentation. While an IDP isn’t required for border crossing itself, it can smooth the process significantly.
The Hidden Cost of Not Having One
Beyond legal penalties, consider the stress and wasted vacation time dealing with documentation problems. For something that costs $15-$50 and takes minimal effort to obtain, the risk-reward calculation heavily favors getting one.
conclusion
Renting and driving a car in the United States as an international visitor is an incredible way to explore its vast landscapes and vibrant cities but it requires proper preparation.
While most U.S. states accept valid foreign driver’s licenses, having an International Driving Permit (IDP) adds an extra layer of security and convenience, especially if your license isn’t in English.
To ensure a smooth travel experience, apply for your IDP in advance, carry your home license at all times, and familiarize yourself with state-specific driving laws. Preparedness guarantees a hassle-free American road trip.
FAQ
How much does an International Driving Permit cost?
Usually between $15–$25, depending on the issuing country.
Can I get an IDP online?
Yes, but only through official government-authorized agencies beware of scams.
What documents do I need to rent a car in the USA as a tourist?
A valid home-country license, IDP (if required), passport, and a credit card.
Which US states require an International Driving Permit?
Some states like Georgia, Texas, and Florida recommend or require it for non-English licenses.
Can I drive in California with a foreign license?
Yes, if it’s in English and valid, you don’t need an IDP for short visits.
What happens if the police stop me without an IDP in the USA?
You may face fines or driving restrictions if your license isn’t in English.
Is an International Driving Permit the same as a driver’s license?
No, it’s a translation of your license, not a standalone license.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid?
Typically one year from the date of issue.
Can I rent a car in the USA without a physical driver’s license?
No car rental companies require the original physical license.
Do car rental companies accept digital driver’s licenses?
Usually not; most require a physical copy for verification.
What if I lost my driver’s license before renting a car?
You’ll need a replacement license copies or photos aren’t accepted.
Can I use a photocopy of my driver’s license to rent a car?
Not only the original license is valid for rentals.
How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?
Usually 1–7 days, depending on your country’s processing time.
Can I get an IDP at the airport when I arrive in the USA?
No you must get it before leaving your home country.
What countries require an IDP for their citizens to drive in the USA?
Most non-English license holders are advised to carry one.
