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World Driving Permit

🇺🇸 United States driving licence translation & IDP

1949 Geneva IDP· Issues IDPs under the 1949 Geneva Convention· Last reviewed 20 Jun 2026

Short answer

United States issues International Driving Permits (IDPs) under the 1949 Geneva Convention, honoured by the 100-plus countries party to it — including the United States, Japan and Australia. Carry your 1949 IDP with your original United States licence. A certified translation still speeds up roadside and rental-desk checks abroad, especially in countries whose officials don't work in your licence's language.

Driving abroad with a United States licence

United States is party to the 1949 Geneva Convention, so United States drivers obtain their International Driving Permit at home before travelling. The IDP is an official translation of your licence into multiple languages; it is valid only alongside the original card and only while that card remains valid. A separate certified translation companion is useful at police stops and rental desks where staff need a quick, readable copy of your licence details.

What United States drivers should carry abroad

  • Your original United States driving licence (physical card)
  • Passport with any required visa or entry stamp
  • An International Driving Permit issued in United States under the 1949 Geneva Convention
  • A certified translation companion to speed up police and rental-desk checks
  • Proof of insurance valid in your destination

Translate your United States licence

A certified, multi-language translation companion for your United States licence — ready to carry alongside the original. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Check a specific destination

Get a tailored answer for your United States licence, your destination, dates and vehicle.

Popular destinations for United States drivers

Do you need an IDP at your destination? Jump to the sourced country guide:

United States drivers: frequently asked questions

What do I need to drive abroad with a United States driving licence?
United States issues International Driving Permits (IDPs) under the 1949 Geneva Convention, honoured by the 100-plus countries party to it — including the United States, Japan and Australia. Carry your 1949 IDP with your original United States licence. A certified translation still speeds up roadside and rental-desk checks abroad, especially in countries whose officials don't work in your licence's language.
Which International Driving Permit does United States issue?
United States issues IDPs under the 1949 Geneva Convention. Your IDP must be obtained in United States before you travel from an authorised issuer; it is a recognised translation of your licence and is always carried together with the original.
Does a certified translation replace an IDP for United States drivers?
No. A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks read your United States licence, but it does not replace an IDP where one is legally required. Always carry your original national licence alongside it. A certified translation still speeds up roadside and rental-desk checks abroad, especially in countries whose officials don't work in your licence's language.

Official sources

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? How to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Driving licence translation for other countries