An International Driver Permit (IDP) is essentially an English translation of a foreign language drivers license issued by a foreign country. These permits can only be obtained in the country which issued the actual license.

Visitors to Connecticut:

An IDP is not considered a valid license. It must accompany the valid foreign license. The reason to have an IDP is to ensure that your foreign language license will be comprehensible and therefore acceptable to all officials who may ask to see your driver's license. The Department of Motor Vehicles does not accept out-of-country licenses with or without an IDP as an acceptable document unless from Canada, Germany or France.

Note:  If you have an IDP, keep it with your foreign operator's license at all times.

Connecticut Residents Traveling Abroad:

If you hold a Connecticut Driver's License and will be traveling abroad for an extended stay in a non-English speaking country and you plan to operate a motor vehicle there, you can obtain an IDP by contacting your local Automobile Association of America (AAA).