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Need an international drivers license Houston travelers use abroad? An International Driving Permit (IDP) translates your valid U.S. license, it is not a standalone license. Walk in at 1811 Bering Drive or call (713) 784-5501.
Outline
Sam’s Passport Inc. helps Houston clients obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP), commonly called an international drivers license, for use in foreign countries. The IDP translates your U.S. driver license into multiple languages and is recognized in over 150 countries.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver license into 10+ languages. It is recognized in over 150 countries under the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic and the 1968 Vienna Convention.
An IDP is not a standalone license, it must be carried alongside your valid U.S. driver license. It does not replace your domestic license, and it is not valid in the country that issued your license (the U.S.).
Some countries require an IDP for rental car agencies to release a vehicle. Others accept a U.S. license alone. Check with your destination country’s embassy or rental company before you travel.
Common reasons Houston travelers need an IDP:
Bring your valid U.S. driver license and two passport-size photos to 1811 Bering Drive, Suite 100, Houston.
Fill out the IDP application form. We verify your license and process the application.
The IDP is a booklet valid for one year from the date of issue. Carry it with your U.S. license when driving abroad.
AAA also issues IDPs in the United States. Sam’s Passport provides this as a convenience for clients who are already using our passport or document services.
Over 150 countries recognize the IDP. Popular destinations for Houston travelers that require or recommend one include:
Some countries (UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand) accept a U.S. license without an IDP. Always verify with the destination country before your trip.
Required documents
Bring or send the following items to apply for your International Driving Permit.
You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid U.S. driver license to qualify for an IDP.
Visit our office
Walk-in clients receive same-day processing. No appointment necessary.
An IDP is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver license into multiple languages. It is recognized in over 150 countries and must be carried alongside your U.S. license — it is not a standalone license.
Many rental agencies in Europe, Asia, and South America require an IDP before releasing a vehicle. Even in countries where it is not legally required, having one can avoid complications at the rental counter and with police.
The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. After it expires, you must apply for a new one before your next trip abroad.
Yes. Walk-in applications at our Houston office at 1811 Bering Drive, Suite 100 are processed the same day. Bring your valid U.S. driver license and two passport-size photos.
The terms are often used interchangeably, but the official document is called an International Driving Permit. There is no actual international drivers license — the IDP translates your existing domestic license for use abroad.
Over 150 countries recognize the IDP, including most of Europe, Japan, Thailand, Brazil, UAE, and Saudi Arabia. Some countries like the UK, Ireland, and Australia accept a U.S. license without an IDP. Always verify before traveling.