General Questions & Answers (IDP)
Find quick answers to the most common questions about the International Driving Permit (IDP).
Learn more about the application process, eligibility, pricing, and how to use your IDP while driving abroad.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a multilingual translation of your national driver’s license. It helps authorities abroad interpret your driving credentials more easily and is available in multiple languages, including English, Arabic, and Spanish.
Important: The IDP is not a substitute for your original driver’s license and is not a government-issued legal document. It is valid only when presented together with your official driver’s license.
Many countries, rental agencies, insurance providers, and traffic officers may request an IDP as part of their local requirements. Carrying one can help prevent confusion or delays while driving internationally — but your national license remains your primary legal proof to drive.
Not necessarily. If your driver’s license is in the same language as the official language of the country you’re visiting, an IDP may not be required.
For example, countries like Canada and Mexico often accept valid U.S. or English-language licenses without issue. In many English-speaking or English-accepting countries, your national license may be enough.
However, requirements vary by country, rental company, and local traffic authority — so it’s always smart to verify in advance.
That said, carrying an IDP is a helpful precaution. Even if it’s not mandatory, having one can prevent delays, language issues, or misunderstandings during your trip.
Better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it.
Yes, absolutely. Your personal data is stored on secure, encrypted servers and protected using industry-standard security measures.
We do not store your data longer than necessary — all personal information is permanently deleted within 48 hoursafter your order has been processed. Your privacy and data security are our top priorities.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a helpful translation of your original license, making it easier for rental companies to verify your driving credentials — especially in non-English-speaking countries.
However, the IDP is not a standalone license. You must always present your original, valid driver’s license alongside it.
Some rental companies may also require additional documents or insurance, so it’s wise to check their specific policies before booking.
Tip: Carry both your national license and IDP to avoid delays or rental refusals abroad.
Our pricing depends on the validity period and whether you choose a digital or printed version:
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Digital IDP – starting from 24.95
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Printed IDP (with free global shipping) – starting from 29.95
Visit this page for full pricing details and available options.
Most physical orders are shipped via DHL Standard Global Shipping, which includes track and trace. However, tracking numbers are not sent automatically.
Want to track your shipment?
Simply reach out to us via email or the contact form, and we’ll be happy to provide your tracking number.
Delivery times vary based on your location:
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DHL delivery: typically 5–10 business days
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Alternative postal services: may take longer depending on destination and availability
We’re constantly working to improve our logistics and offer the most reliable delivery experience possible. If you have questions or experience delays, our support team is available 24/7 to assist you.
Contact us anytime at [email protected].
No, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is not issued directly by a government. While official IDPs are based on international conventions such as the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Agreements, they are typically provided by authorized government-affiliated organizations in your home country.
What We Offer
At Travel Docs Online, we provide a non-governmental multilingual translation of your valid driver’s license. This document is intended to assist international travelers—especially those who may already be abroad and unable to obtain official paperwork from home.
Our translation includes your name, photo, and license categories, helping rental agencies, traffic authorities, and insurance providers better understand your credentials.
Please note: This is not a replacement for a government-issued IDP. It must always be used together with your original driver’s license.
Our translated document is available in the 12 most widely spoken languages, making it easier for local authorities, rental agencies, and insurance providers around the world to understand your driving credentials.
While it is accepted in over 180 countries, acceptance may vary depending on local regulations. We recommend carrying it alongside your original driver’s license to help reduce language barriers and ensure smoother interactions while driving abroad.
Widely understood. Globally practical.
No, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is not issued directly by a government. While official IDPs are based on international conventions such as the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Agreements, they are typically provided by authorized government-affiliated organizations in your home country.
What We Offer
At Travel Docs Online, we provide a non-governmental multilingual translation of your valid driver’s license. This document is intended to assist international travelers—especially those who may already be abroad and unable to obtain official paperwork from home.
Our translation includes your name, photo, and license categories, helping rental agencies, traffic authorities, and insurance providers better understand your credentials.
Please note: This is not a replacement for a government-issued IDP. It must always be used together with your original driver’s license.
Our translated document is available in the 12 most widely spoken languages, making it easier for local authorities, rental agencies, and insurance providers around the world to understand your driving credentials.
While it is accepted in over 180 countries, acceptance may vary depending on local regulations. We recommend carrying it alongside your original driver’s license to help reduce language barriers and ensure smoother interactions while driving abroad.
Widely understood. Globally practical.
No, not all countries accept an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a 3-year validity.
Some countries only recognize IDPs that are valid for up to 1 year.
We recommend checking with the traffic authorities or embassies of your destination country to confirm their specific requirements before choosing a validity period.
An International Driving Permit is not accepted in the following countries:
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China
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South Korea
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North Korea
Additionally, U.S. citizens driving within the United States do not need an IDP.
Always check local laws before traveling, as acceptance and enforcement can vary by region or rental provider.
At this time, we do not issue International Driving Permits for use in Japan.
Japan has strict requirements regarding IDPs and only recognizes documents issued under specific international conventions by approved authorities.
We recommend checking with the Japanese embassy or licensing authority for official guidance before driving in Japan.
We are not authorized to issue International Driving Permits to residents of the United States.
Only two organizations—AAA (American Automobile Association) and AATA (American Automobile Touring Alliance)—are officially designated by the U.S. Department of State to issue IDPs to U.S. driver’s license holders.
If you hold a valid U.S. license, please contact AAA or AATA to obtain an official IDP.
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