Permio offers two International Driving Permit plans: a 1-year permit for $39 and a 3-year permit for $89. The question is straightforward but the answer depends on how you travel. Here is everything you need to make the right choice.
The Numbers at a Glance
| 1-Year IDP | 3-Year IDP | |
|---|---|---|
| Total cost | $39 | $89 |
| Per-year cost | $39.00/year | $29.67/year |
| Validity | 12 months | 36 months |
| Coverage | 150+ countries | 150+ countries |
| Digital delivery | Yes | Yes |
| Savings vs. 3x 1-year | — | $28 saved |
The 3-year plan saves you $28 compared to buying three consecutive 1-year permits. That is a 24% discount spread over the life of the permit. Both plans include the same features: digital delivery, acceptance in 150+ countries, compliance with both the Vienna and Geneva Conventions, and the ability to print a physical copy.
Who Should Get the 1-Year IDP
The 1-year plan is the right choice if:
- You have a single trip planned and do not expect to drive abroad again within the next year.
- You travel internationally once a year or less. If your driving abroad is limited to one annual vacation, and you are not certain about next year's plans, the 1-year plan keeps your commitment low.
- You want to try the service first. If this is your first IDP and you want to see how the process works before committing to a longer plan, the 1-year option is the natural starting point.
Who Should Get the 3-Year IDP
The 3-year plan is the better value if:
- You travel internationally more than once a year. Business travelers, frequent vacationers, and anyone who drives abroad regularly will save money and avoid the hassle of reapplying annually.
- You are a digital nomad. If you move between countries regularly, a 3-year IDP means one application and three years of coverage across your entire itinerary.
- You are an expat or long-term resident abroad. Many countries require foreign residents to carry an IDP for extended periods. A 3-year permit covers you without annual renewals.
- You want to avoid the risk of expiration mid-trip. A longer validity period means more buffer. One traveler almost ran into trouble when their IDP expired during an extended trip. Read about IDP mistakes that cost travelers hundreds to understand why this matters.
1-Year plan: $39 per year. 3-Year plan: $89 / 3 = $29.67 per year. If you will need an IDP for more than 15 months total, the 3-year plan costs less overall than buying two 1-year permits ($78).
Decision Flowchart
What Happens When Your IDP Expires?
When your IDP reaches its expiration date, it is no longer valid for driving abroad. If you need to continue driving, you will need to renew. Permio makes renewal simple through the renewal page. The process is the same as the original application, and your new IDP is delivered digitally.
For a full walkthrough of the application and renewal process, see our guide: How to Apply for an IDP in 2026.
Ready to Choose Your Plan?
1-year from $39. 3-year from $89. Both include digital delivery and worldwide coverage.
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