What an AAA International Driving Permit Is and Where to Get One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) 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. If you plan to rent a car or drive in another country, some rental companies and border officials will ask for it.

AAA is the main source for IDPs in the United States. You get one by visiting an AAA office in person with your valid driver's license, a passport or passport card, one passport-style photo, and a completed process form. The permit costs around $20 and takes about 15 minutes to issue on the spot. AAA has over 1,000 offices nationwide, so finding one near you is usually straightforward.

The IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which you choose. It expires when your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever comes first. Many countries recognize it, but not all — check the rules for the specific country you plan to visit before you leave.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA is the primary issuer of International Driving Permits in the U.S., and you must explore in person at an AAA office with your valid driver's license and a passport-style photo.
  • The permit costs approximately $20 and is issued the same day, valid for either one or three years depending on your choice.
  • An IDP is not a replacement license — it only works alongside your valid U.S. driver's license and translates it into ten languages.
  • Not all countries recognize the IDP, so you should confirm that your destination country accepts it before traveling.
  • You can find your nearest AAA office through the AAA website or by calling their member services line.

How to Locate an AAA Office Near You

The fastest way to find an AAA office is to visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool. Enter your city or zip code, and the tool will show you all nearby locations, their hours, and whether they issue IDPs. Not every AAA office issues permits on-site — some smaller branches refer you to a larger location — so the locator will tell you which ones do.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP at any AAA office that issues them. Membership is not required. However, AAA members sometimes receive a small discount on the permit fee, so it is worth asking when you arrive.

You can also call AAA member services at 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357) and ask for the nearest office that issues IDPs. They can tell you the exact address, hours, and whether you need to make an appointment. Some offices take walk-ins; others require you to book ahead, especially during busy travel seasons.

What You Need to Bring to the AAA Office

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license — this is required and non-negotiable. The IDP is a translation of your license, so without it, the office cannot issue a permit.

You also need a passport or passport card. The AAA office will not accept a state ID card, birth certificate, or other form of identification in place of a passport document. If you do not have a passport yet, you will need to obtain one before you can get an IDP.

Bring one passport-style photo, 2 by 2 inches. Many AAA offices have a photo booth on-site if you need one taken, though there is usually a small fee. You can also bring a photo you had taken elsewhere, as long as it meets the passport photo standard: plain background, your face clearly visible, taken within the last six months.

You will also need to complete the process form, which AAA provides at the office. It takes a few minutes and asks for your name, address, license number, and the validity period you want (one or three years). Bring a pen to fill it out, or the office will provide one.

Cost and How Long It Takes

An International Driving Permit from AAA costs approximately $20. The exact price varies slightly by state and AAA region, so call ahead or check the AAA website for your local office's fee. Some offices accept cash, credit cards, or both, so bring a payment method you are comfortable using.

The permit is issued the same day. Once you hand over your documents and completed form, the office prints and assembles your IDP on the spot. You walk out with it in your hands within 15 to 20 minutes in most cases. There is no waiting period, no mailing, and no follow-up visit needed.

The one-year permit and the three-year permit cost the same amount, so many people choose the three-year option for the extra coverage. The permit expires when your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever date comes first. If your license expires in two years and you buy a three-year permit, you will need to renew your license before the permit's three years are up.

What Countries Accept the AAA International Driving Permit

The IDP is recognized by over 150 countries and territories, including most of Europe, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and many others. However, not every country accepts it, and some countries have specific rules about when and how you can use it.

Before you travel, check the driving rules and documentation requirements for your specific destination. You can do this through the U.S. State Department's travel advisory website, which lists what documents each country requires. Some countries accept the IDP as a standalone translation; others require it only as a supplement to your actual license. A few countries do not recognize it at all.

Car rental companies also have their own policies. Some require an IDP; others do not. When you book a rental car, ask the company whether they need an IDP or accept your U.S. license alone. Getting an IDP before you travel is usually safer than assuming you will not need one, since the cost is low and the process is quick.

Renewing or Replacing Your IDP

If your one-year or three-year permit expires, you can get a new one by returning to any AAA office with the same documents you brought the first time: your valid driver's license, passport, and a new passport-style photo. The process is identical to the first process, and it takes the same 15 to 20 minutes.

If your IDP is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at any AAA office. Bring your driver's license, passport, and a new photo. AAA will issue a replacement permit with the same expiration date as your original, so you do not lose any time on your coverage.

If your U.S. driver's license expires or is suspended, your IDP becomes invalid even if it has time remaining. You cannot renew just the IDP — you must first renew or restore your driver's license through your state's DMV. Once your license is valid again, you can get a new IDP if you need one.

When You Might Not Need an IDP

Some countries and rental companies do not require an IDP. If you are driving in Canada or Mexico with a valid U.S. driver's license, many rental companies will rent to you without an IDP. However, having one costs little and takes minutes, so it is a low-risk safeguard.

If you are only visiting a country as a passenger and not driving, you do not need an IDP. The permit is only for people who plan to operate a vehicle.

If you are renting a car through a major international rental company, call them before you travel and ask what documents they require. Some companies are flexible; others have strict policies. Getting their answer in writing before you leave the U.S. saves you from arriving at a rental counter and discovering you cannot rent the car.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. driver's license is suspended?

No. Your IDP is a translation of your valid license, so if your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP. You must restore your license through your state's DMV first. Once your license is valid again, you can visit an AAA office to get a permit.

Do I need an appointment to get an IDP at AAA, or can I just walk in?

It depends on the office. Some AAA locations accept walk-ins; others require appointments, especially during peak travel seasons. Call your local AAA office or check their website to find out their policy. Making an appointment is usually faster and guarantees you will not have to wait.

What if I do not have a passport yet?

You cannot get an IDP without a passport or passport card. You will need to obtain one from the U.S. State Department or a passport acceptance facility first. Once you have it, you can visit AAA with your license, passport, and photo to get your permit.

Is the International Driving Permit the same as an International License?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document only — it is not a license. You must always carry your valid U.S. driver's license alongside it. Some countries call their own documents "International Licenses," but the AAA IDP is specifically a translation permit recognized in over 150 countries.

Can I get an IDP by mail or online?

No. AAA requires you to explore in person at an office. You must show your original driver's license and passport, and provide a passport-style photo. There is no online or mail-in option for IDPs in the United States.