What an AAA International Driving Permit is and who needs one

An AAA International Driving Permit is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license, and only in countries that recognize it. You need one if you plan to rent a car or drive in another country and want proof that your U.S. license is legitimate.

The permit is useful in roughly 150 countries, but not all of them require it. Some countries accept your U.S. license alone; others demand both your license and the permit together. A few do not recognize either. Before you travel, check the specific rules for the country where you will drive — your rental car company or the country's tourism board can tell you what they need.

The AAA issues these permits, but you do not have to be an AAA member to get one. Non-members can obtain a permit through AAA, though membership sometimes offers a discount on the fee.

Key Takeaways

  • An AAA International Driving Permit translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages and is valid for three years from the date of issue.
  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license in hand before you can request a permit; the permit cannot be issued without it.
  • You can get a permit in person at any AAA office, by mail, or online through AAA's website — each method takes different amounts of time.
  • The fee varies slightly by method and membership status, but typically ranges from $15 to $20 for non-members.
  • You will need to bring or submit a passport-style photo, your valid driver's license, and a completed process form.

What documents you need to bring or submit

You will need three things: a valid U.S. driver's license, a completed AAA International Driving Permit process form, and a passport-style photo. The photo must be 2 inches by 2 inches, in color or black and white, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. It should look like a passport or visa photo.

Your driver's license must be current and not expired. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, AAA will not issue a permit. The process form itself is straightforward — it asks for your name, address, date of birth, and license number. You can read it from the AAA website before you go in, or fill it out at the office.

If you are explore by mail, you will mail these items to the AAA address they provide. If you are explore online, you will upload a digital photo and provide your information through their website, then either pick up the permit at a local office or have it mailed to you.

How to get a permit in person at an AAA office

Walk into any AAA office with your driver's license, completed process form, and passport-style photo. The staff will verify your information, check that your license is valid, and process your permit on the spot. You will pay the fee at that time — typically $15 to $20 for non-members, sometimes less if you are an AAA member.

You can usually pick up your permit the same day or within a few days, depending on how busy the office is. Call ahead to confirm the office's hours and whether they have the photo requirements posted, so you know exactly what to bring. This method is fastest if you need the permit quickly and have an AAA office nearby.

How to get a permit by mail

Visit the AAA website, read the International Driving Permit process form, and mail it along with your driver's license, a passport-style photo, and payment to the address listed on the form. Include a check or money order for the fee. Do not send cash.

Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks from the time AAA receives your envelope. If you need the permit sooner, this is not the fastest route. Make a copy of your driver's license before you mail it, in case there are any delays. AAA will return your original license with your new permit.

How to get a permit online through AAA

Go to the AAA website and look for their International Driving Permit section. You will create an account or log in if you already have one, then upload a digital photo, enter your personal information, and provide your driver's license number. You will pay the fee online using a credit or debit card.

After you submit, you can choose to pick up your permit at a local AAA office (usually within three to five business days) or have it mailed to you (typically one to two weeks). The online method is convenient if you want to avoid a trip to the office, though you will still need to pick it up or wait for delivery.

How long the permit is valid and what to do when it expires

An AAA International Driving Permit is valid for three years from the date it is issued. Write the expiration date somewhere you will remember — on your passport, in your phone, or in your travel documents — so you do not accidentally try to use an expired permit abroad.

When your permit expires, you will need to get a new one if you plan to drive internationally again. The process is the same: bring or submit a new process, a new passport-style photo, your current valid driver's license, and the fee. You cannot renew an expired permit; you must explore for a new one.

What to do if you lose your permit or need a replacement

If your permit is lost, stolen, or damaged, contact AAA directly. You will need to request a replacement and provide proof of your original permit number if you have it. AAA may charge a replacement fee, which is typically similar to the original fee but can vary.

If you lost your permit while traveling, contact the nearest AAA office or the AAA Travel Services line for guidance. Some countries' embassies or consulates can also help verify that you hold a valid U.S. license if you need temporary proof while you wait for a replacement to arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an AAA membership to get an International Driving Permit?

No. Non-members can get a permit directly from AAA, though the fee may be slightly higher than for members. If you plan to get a permit more than once or want other AAA benefits, membership might save you money over time.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and current. If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, renew or restore it first, then explore for the permit.

What countries accept an AAA International Driving Permit?

Roughly 150 countries recognize it, but acceptance varies. Some countries require both your U.S. license and the permit; others accept the license alone. Check with your rental car company or the country's tourism website before you travel to confirm what documents you need.

How long does it take to get a permit if I am leaving soon?

In-person service at an AAA office is fastest — often same-day or within a few days. Online pickup typically takes three to five business days. Mail service takes two to four weeks. If you are leaving within days, visit an office in person.

Can I use an International Driving Permit without my actual U.S. driver's license?

No. The permit is only valid when carried alongside your actual U.S. driver's license. You must have both documents with you when you drive internationally.