Frequently Asked Questions

What is IDA?

The International Driving Authority (IDA) is an international organization that issues international driving permits (IDP) in compliance with the United Nations’ 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic and the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, meeting the requirements for the size, format, and contents of the document. IDA provides driving license translation and localization services and ships IDPs worldwide.

What is the International Driver's Document?

Our international driving document (IDD) is ideal for travelers visiting multilingual destinations. No test is required, and the IDD is valid for up to three years. This document is used in conjunction with, but does not replace, your valid national license; it is a translation of your driver’s license in three formats:

1) a plastic ID card;
2) a translation booklet produced in compliance with UN standards for document size, color, and format, with translation into 29 languages;
3) and a mobile phone app. The mobile app has a digital copy of your valid driving license and translation into 70 languages in your smartphone, so no internet connection is required.

What is the difference between IDP and IDL?

There is no actual difference. The term “International Driver’s License” (IDL) is colloquial, while “International Driving Permit” (IDP) is the official term used in the United Nations Conventions on Road Traffic.

What are the benefits of having an International Driver’s License?

Our IDD is ideal for travelers visiting multilingual destinations. This non-official document will help you, in conjunction with your current valid driver’s license, to register a car and rent a vehicle in many countries. Benefits of an IDL from IDA:

• 100% legit — full UN standard 1949 and 1968 compliance;
• Accepted by all major car rentals;
• Takes only 10 minutes to apply online;
• Worldwide delivery and instant approval;
• Translated to 29 languages in a hard copy and 70 languages in a printable digital version.

How can I use my International Driving Permit?

Imagine a situation: while staying abroad, your driving license is not considered legal due to non-compliance. It may really spoil your journey. However, if you decide to get an International Driving License (IDL), it will help you save time, money, and nerves.

One of the outstanding benefits of IDL is that it allows you to rent a car all over the world and be sure you won’t face any problems with local police enforcers. Nevertheless, in case the police stop you, do not worry and show your International Driving License and a language translation upon immediate request. Policemen may also ask you to show your valid national driver’s license.

International Driving Authority has a secure database containing information about all international permits ever issued. A special mobile application helps you scan the QR code on each card to find out the validity, status, and any other information concerning your International Driving Permit no matter if you are online or offline. The data is available in 70 languages.

Is this document a valid form of identification or does it replace my state-issued driver's license?

No. The IDD is a non-official and non-governmental document and it does not substitute your state-issued driver's license or photo ID. This supplementary document simply acts as a standardized translation and the digital storage of your valid national driver's license.

Can I exchange my National Driver's License with the International Driver's Document?

No, the International Driver Document doesn't replace or change your national driver’s license. It is just a standardized, non-official translation of your national driver’s license. You still must use your national driver’s license to drive outside of your country. Always carry both while driving abroad.

Can I obtain a national/domestic DL with your company?

Unfortunately, we don't issue national driving licenses. We advise you to contact a local organization, such as a local driving school, to get a domestic driving document.

I have a national driving license from one country. I need a new one from another country. Can you help?

We don’t handle license exchanges. Please contact the local authorities in the country where you need the new license, as most countries offer an exchange option. If you need a document from scratch, you need to contact a local driving school. If you require an International Driving Permit, we can issue one for you.

I want to buy a driver's license, so what should I do?

We don’t issue national driving licenses, please contact a local driving school.

Are there any exceptions regarding the acceptance of the IDD internationally?

In China, Japan, and South Korea the document is not accepted. We recommend that you verify the requirements for each destination as the requirements vary from country to country and state to state.

Is the document only applicable to the destination I’m getting it issued for, or does it work globally?

You don’t need separate documents for each destination — one document works across the globe, except in China, Japan, and South Korea, where it is not accepted.

I want to get an IDP that is accepted in South Korea/China/Japan.

Unfortunately, our document is not valid in Japan, South Korea, and China. For these countries, you need to obtain an international driving permit in your home country.

My driver's license will expire this month, may I still apply for the IDD?

No, unfortunately. In order to apply for the IDD you must present a national driving permit valid for 30 days or more from the issue date of the IDD.

Can I rent a car with this document?

Usually yes. However, as requirements vary from region to region, you are advised to inquire directly with car rental companies.

Can I purchase car insurance with the IDD?

Usually yes. However, as requirements vary from region to region, you are advised to inquire directly with local insurance companies.

Can I register a car with this document?

Usually yes. However, as requirements vary from region to region, you are advised to inquire directly with local agencies.

Can I use my IDD to work as a driver in a foreign country?

This depends on local regulations, laws, and exact employer policies. Some organizations allow foreign employees with international driving documents. Others, like taxi companies, require a local driving license.

Do I need an International Driving License for the X-country?

Please check our Country and Travel Guide sections:
- https://idaoffice.org/countries/
- https://idaoffice.org/travel-guide/

Can I drive in the X-country with my license?

Please check our Country and Travel Guide sections:
- https://idaoffice.org/countries/
- https://idaoffice.org/travel-guide/

Сan an American/Canadian/Mexican citizen drive in the X-country?

To drive in the X-country with your US/Canada/Mexico driving license, you must have an International Driving Permit (IDP). The US/Canada/Mexico has different vehicle classes in every state/province, which do not meet any international standards. Additional information for traveling can be found on the government websites.

Can you translate my national driving license into X language?

We will translate your national driving license into 29 languages in a hard copy booklet, and 70 languages in a digital version.

How many languages do you translate driving licenses to?

We have 29 languages in a hard copy booklet: Afrikaans, Arabic, Belarusian, Bengali, Chinese, Dutch, English, Filipino, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Malay, Mongolian, Persian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Ukrainian, Urdu, Uzbek, Vietnamese.

And 70 languages in the mobile app and PDF-booklet: Afrikaans, Albanian, Amharic, Arabic, Armenian, Azerbaijani, Belarusian, Bengali, Bosnian, Bulgarian, Burmese, Catalan, Chinese, Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Estonian, Filipino, Finnish, French, Georgian, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hindi, Hungarian, Icelandic, Indonesian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Javanese, Kazakh, Khmer, Korean, Kyrgyz, Lao, Latvian, Lithuanian, Macedonian, Malay, Maltese, Mongolian, Nepali, Norwegian, Pashto, Persian, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Sinhala, Slovak, Slovenian, Spanish, Swahili, Swedish, Tajik, Tamil, Thai, Turkish, Turkmen, Ukrainian, Urdu, Uzbek, Vietnamese.

I need an apostille or notarized translation of my driving license. Can you help?

Unfortunately, we cannot assist with this. We issue International Driving Permits (IDPs), which are strictly standardized documents. If you require a general translation with an apostille or notarization, we recommend contacting a local notary or the relevant authorities that can provide an apostille stamp for your document.

What is an electronic International Driving License?

The Electronic International Driving License or eIDL includes a printable PDF document of a booklet and a mobile application for Android and iOS with translation into 70 languages.

How to use your electronic IDL?

Within 24 hours after completing the application and making payment you will receive an email from us including a PDF booklet with the translation of your national driving license into 70 languages, and images of a plastic ID.

Right after that you will be able to use your eIDL in our mobile IDA Keeper app for iOS and Android.

If necessary, you can also print the desired pages from the PDF booklet and plastic ID images, but usually it is enough to have them on hand digitally.

IMPORTANT NOTICES:

• De jure, according to the United Nations Convention on road traffic, a physical copy of IDL is mandatory, as there is no such notion in the UN Convention as an eIDL yet. De facto we and our clients have used the digital version many times, and road police and car rentals accept it. However, we advise you to choose the United Nations standard IDP if you have enough time for delivery.
• Cancelation and refund are possible only until your order is not processed. Once an order is processed, and an email with eIDL is submitted to you, our service is completed, and the respective PDF file shall be considered exploited and shall become non-redeemable.

Is it possible to get both the printed and electronic versions in one shot or do I have to order them separately?

The standard version includes the electronic one. A soft copy is always ready within 24 hours. A hard copy is printed and sent out within 1 business day. You are welcome to apply here: https://idaoffice.org/apply-now/.

Is the electronic license a driver's permit? Will it be accepted by road police officers/rental companies?

De jure, according to the United Nations Convention on Road Traffic, a physical copy of IDL is mandatory, as there is no such notion in the UN Convention as an eIDL yet. De facto we and our clients have used the digital version many times, and road police and car rentals accept it. However, we advise you to choose the United Nations standard IDP if you have enough time for delivery.

Can you give me instructions on how to print the PDF IDP booklet?

The booklet should ideally be printed in A6 size. For your convenience, we provide two versions: A5 and A6.

Many printers support booklet mode, which allows you to print and fold the document into a booklet format. You can refer to this guide for detailed instructions:
https://helpx.adobe.com/acrobat/kb/print-booklets-acrobat-reader.html.

If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us for assistance.

I need an IDP. What should I do?

You are welcome to apply here: https://idaoffice.org/apply-now/. The process is simple and self-explanatory.

What do I need to apply?

1) Photocopy of both sides of current valid driver's license (valid for 30 days or more);
2) Applicant's photo in color with a solid background (should not be the same photo used in your current driving license);
3) Completed and signed online application form. We check all unpaid applications within 48 hours. Once an application is checked we will send you an email. All paid applications are checked within 24 hours (usually much faster).

How can I apply for an International Driving Permit?

Our application process is fast, simple, and straightforward. To apply, complete the online application form, attach a copy of your valid national driver's license, your handwritten signature, and a passport-sized color photograph. Once you've submitted these documents, make a payment for the International Driving Permit and delivery (if applicable). You can start your application online here.

How to get an International Driver's License in the X-country?

We offer worldwide delivery, including fast delivery options. Regardless of your location, you can apply online and receive your document almost anywhere.

I have several citizenships. Which one should I choose for the application?

You can choose any of your citizenships in your application. This is up to you. Please note that you cannot use an IDP in your home country; this is a document for driving abroad.

I have several driving licenses issued by one country/different countries. Should I create several applications?

Licenses from one country: If you have multiple driving licenses with different categories issued by the same country, you only need to apply once. We will combine all your vehicle categories into a single IDL.
Licenses from different countries: If your driving licenses were issued by different countries, you will need to create a separate application for each one, as we cannot combine them into a single international document.

What do I have to prepare to get an International Driver’s License online?

The procedure of obtaining the International Driving License is pretty simple. All you need is to provide the following:

• A photo of your valid national driving permit;
• Relevant driver information;
• A recent passport-size selfie photograph;
• Your signature (scanned copy or a photograph);
• Payment for your International Driver's License of your choice.

I've lost my national driving license. Can I apply with the copy I have in my phone?

We don't recommend driving in a foreign country without a physical copy of a national DL, as you must show your original national license to the road police/rental company. We advise you to contact authorities in your country to reissue/renew your domestic license. Then, you can proceed with the application for your IDL.

Which category should I choose?

The categories you select should match those listed on your national driving license. During the approval process, we will double-check your chosen categories. We cannot add any categories that are not already present on your national license.

What about a motorcycle driver's license?

The International Driving License includes information about the right to operate vehicles of specific categories. If you are licensed to drive a motorcycle, simply indicate this during the application process, and we will ensure it is marked on your International Driving License. Please note that we will verify your categories during the approval process, and we cannot add motorcycle categories if they are not listed on your national driver's license.

Will my full name be specified on the International Driving Permit?

Yes, the International Driving Permit (IDP) will include the name exactly as it appears on your national driving license, as the IDP is an accurate translation of your license. If the spelling of your name on your driver's license differs from that on your passport, you can provide a passport photo as well. This will allow us to include your name as it appears in your passport.

What if my license has no expiration date?

If your national driver's license does not have an expiration date, you can select the corresponding option in the application. We maintain an updated list of countries that issue permanent driver's licenses. Please note that we can only accept licenses without expiration dates if they were issued by these specific countries.

What if the birth date specified in my national driving license is incorrect?

If your birth date on your national driving license is incorrect, please provide an additional identification document (such as a passport) that displays your correct birth date. You can upload up to 5 additional files when completing our application form.

How can I upload or attach the required images?

You can upload them when completing our application form or send them to us via email later.

Can you issue my IDL with a backdated start date?

Unfortunately, we cannot issue International Driving Licenses (IDLs) with backdated start dates. However, we can issue documents with a future start date, up to 6 months in advance. Please note that your national driving license must remain valid throughout this period.

The online application is not working or is too slow. What can I do?

This issue usually occurs if the images or files you are uploading are too large. To resolve this, please try reducing the file size before uploading. If you’re unsure how to reduce the size, you can complete the online application process without attaching the images and then email the files to [email protected]. Be sure to include your name and the email address you used to apply. Additionally, ensure that all fields in the application form are completed and that your email address is correct.

How long is an International Driver's License valid?

When you get an International Driver's License with us, you choose your own validity period between 1, 2, and 3 years.

Can I get the IDL for more than 3 years?

Unfortunately, the maximum validity period for an International Driving License (IDL) is 3 years. This limit is strictly determined by the United Nations Convention on Road Traffic. Any international driving documents offered online with validity periods exceeding 3 years are not legitimate.

Can I get an international license for 10 days?

Unfortunately, no. The minimal term is 1 year.

What payment options do you offer?

We support a wide range of currencies and payment methods, including Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit/debit cards, PayPal, bank transfers, Alipay, WeChat Pay, Western Union, cryptocurrency, and more. The available payment methods may vary depending on the currency you select. If you don’t see your preferred method, we recommend switching to USD, which offers the widest variety of options.

Please note: If you make a payment without signing in, ensure that the email address you provide is valid. Otherwise, you will not receive an email confirmation with your receipt.

What is the cost of the service?

1) Our general price list is available here: https://idaoffice.org/prices/. Please select your shipping destination to view the available options, including delivery times and costs.
2) Express processing (within 20 minutes): $25.
3) Hard copy document reprint: $25.

Do you support cash on delivery (payment on delivery)?

Unfortunately, we do not offer cash on delivery. We require full payment before processing any application. Each issued and printed document is unique and contains your personal information, making it impossible to resell.

Can I pay on behalf of someone else?

Yes, you can, but in order to proceed with processing the document as soon as possible, please make sure to send us an email to [email protected] with the first name, last name, and email address of the person you paid for.

Can I use someone else’s credit card to make a payment?

Yes, you can use someone else’s credit card, but the card owner must be aware of and consent to the transaction. Please note that in the event of a chargeback, we are required to cancel the documents, and the IDP will no longer be valid, and cannot be checked online.

Can I pay via local bank transfer?

Yes, we accept local bank transfers in Australia (AUD), Canada (CAD), Eurozone (EUR), Georgia (GEL), Hungary (HUF), New Zealand (NZD), Russian Federation (RUB), Singapore (SGD), Turkey (TRY), United Kingdom (GBP), and United States of America (USD).

I'm no longer interested in receiving the IDL. Can you cancel my application/make a refund?

If your order has not been shipped or processed, you can cancel it for a full refund.

For physical documents, you may return them within 7 days of delivery for a refund, provided they are in their original condition and include all original items and packaging. Return shipping costs are non-refundable unless the issue was our error.

For electronic IDLs, cancellations and refunds are only possible before the order is processed. Once the eIDL is sent to your email, the service is considered complete and non-refundable.

Please note that express processing fees are non-refundable if the order is processed within 20 minutes.

For more details, please check our Delivery and Return Policy page here: https://idaoffice.org/return-policy/. Feel free to contact us.

I need to renew my international document online, what is the document number?

The International Driver’s Document number is 10 digits long, under the barcode of your card and booklet, usually starting with 1027…

I need to renew my international document online, how can I do it?

If you received a renewal notification by email, please login here: https://idaoffice.org/login/, and click the “Renew” button next to your previous application.

Make sure to review all the information and update it if necessary:

• Your residence and shipping address (if they have changed)
• New images (if you want an updated photo on your new license or if your previous national license has expired)

If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us.

My International license issued by you was lost/stolen, do I have to apply again?

No, you don’t need to apply again. You can contact our customer service via chat or email to request a reprint of your current International Driver’s License. Please confirm your shipping address to ensure the document is delivered securely. The cost for the reprint is $25 (excluding shipping).

I previously ordered only the digital version. Can I upgrade it to a hard copy?

Yes, upgrading to a hard copy is possible. Please contact our customer service via chat or email to request an upgrade. We will ask for your shipping address and arrange for the additional payment. You won’t need to pay the full amount again — only the difference between the digital and hard copy document prices, plus the shipping cost.

My document was sent back by the postal service. What should I do?

If your document is returned to our office, we will notify you via email. Once we have it back, we can arrange for it to be resent. Please note that if the document was returned due to an incorrect or incomplete address provided in the application, or because it wasn’t collected in time, an additional shipping fee will apply.

When will I receive my IDL?

Soft copies are ready within 24 hours (20 minutes in case of express processing). We process all standard hard-copy documents within 1 business day. Delivery depends on the shipping method you choose. You can check delivery options here: https://idaoffice.org/prices/. Please select your shipping destination to view the available options, including delivery times and costs.

What is the cost of shipping?

The shipping price depends on the method chosen. You can find all shipping options here: https://idaoffice.org/prices/. Please select your shipping destination to view the available options, including delivery times and costs.

I want to change my shipping address. How can I do it?

If the document has not been sent out yet: please contact us to provide your new shipping address.

If the document is already in transit: we cannot update the address.

If the new address is in the same city: we recommend contacting the courier or postal service in advance to arrange for pickup when the document arrives in your city.

If the new address is completely different: we can issue a reprint. The reprint fee is $25, plus the shipping fee. Please contact us to arrange the reprint.

Can you send my IDL with a document of another client in one shipment?

Yes, sure. Please contact us to specify the order numbers that should be shipped together.

Can you ship the license to P.O. Boxes and APO/FPO addresses?

Non-courier USPS options allow delivery to P.O. Boxes and APO/FPO addresses; however, FedEx, UPS, and DHL do not.

Can the shipping estimate time vary?

Yes, shipping times may vary due to factors such as customs restrictions in certain regions, weather conditions, strikes, or other unforeseen circumstances that could delay delivery.

What happens if a USPS package is lost?

Please contact us in such a case. We highly recommend courier services for a more effective delivery process.

Can you send more than one document in the same package?

Yes, you can add multiple applications. If all documents are being sent to the same address, you only need to pay one shipping fee.

I haven't received my IDL. Where is it?

Please check the tracking link we sent you after your order (if you chose a trackable option). In all other cases, please contact us so we can check with the shipping service.

Can you send my IDL to another person?

Yes, sure. Please don't forget to specify the recipient's name and phone number in the shipping address section of your application.