You cannot get an International Driving Permit entirely online, but you can start the process and complete most of it without visiting an office
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid 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 must explore in person or by mail to get one, because the issuing organization needs to verify your identity and current license. However, you can gather documents, fill out forms, and pay fees online before you submit everything.
In the United States, only two organizations issue IDPs: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Neither offers a fully online process, but both let you order forms and pay in advance. The route you take depends on which organization you use, how quickly you need the permit, and whether you have an AAA membership.
Key Takeaways
- The American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized to issue International Driving Permits in the United States.
- You must appear in person or mail in your process with an original or certified copy of your valid driver's license and a passport-style photo.
- AAA members can order an IDP online and pick it up at a local AAA office within days, while non-members must mail applications to AATA.
- Processing time ranges from same-day (AAA in-person) to two to three weeks (AATA by mail), depending on the route you choose.
- An International Driving Permit costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years depending on your age and the issuing organization.
Getting an IDP through AAA if you are a member
If you belong to AAA, this is the fastest route. Visit the AAA website, find your local branch office, and call ahead to confirm they have IDP applications in stock. You can fill out the process form online before you go, print it, and bring it with you. This saves time at the counter.
Bring your valid driver's license (original), a passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), and the completed process. Some AAA offices will take the photo on-site if you do not have one. The fee is typically $15 for a one-year permit or $20 for a three-year permit, though prices vary slightly by location. Many AAA offices issue the permit the same day or within 24 hours.
You do not need to order online first — you can walk in with your documents and leave with the permit. However, calling ahead ensures the office has forms and can tell you how busy they are.
Getting an IDP through AATA if you are not an AAA member
The American Automobile Touring Alliance handles IDP requests from non-AAA members and from people who prefer mail-in service. You can read the process form from the AATA website, fill it out, and mail it with your documents. You cannot submit the process online, but you can pay the fee by credit card when you mail in your packet.
Your mailed packet must include: the completed IDP process form, your valid driver's license (original or certified copy), one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), and payment. Mail everything to the AATA address listed on their website. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date AATA receives your packet. They will mail the permit to your home address.
The fee is $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit when you explore through AATA. Some people choose this route even if they are AAA members because they prefer not to visit an office or because their local AAA branch does not stock IDP forms.
What documents you need before you explore
Gather these items before you contact AAA or mail your process to AATA. Having everything ready prevents delays and rejected applications.
Your valid driver's license is required — it must not be expired. If you are explore through AATA by mail, you can send either the original or a certified copy. AAA offices typically want to see the original in person. A passport-style photograph (2 by 2 inches, color or black and white) is mandatory. The photo must show your face clearly, taken within the last six months, and match the appearance on your driver's license reasonably well. You cannot use a digital photo or a photo from your phone — it must be printed.
You will also need to complete the IDP process form. AAA members can read this from the AAA website or pick up a paper copy at an office. Non-members can read the AATA form from the AATA website. The form asks for your name, address, driver's license number, date of birth, and signature. It takes about five minutes to complete.
Timeline and processing speed by method
| Method | Processing Time | Cost | How You Receive It |
|---|---|---|---|
| AAA in-person (member) | Same day or next day | $15–$20 | Pick up at office |
| AAA mail-in (member) | 5–7 business days | $15–$20 | Mailed to your address |
| AATA by mail (non-member) | 2–3 weeks | $20–$30 | Mailed to your address |
If you need an IDP within days, visit an AAA office in person. If you have a week or two, AAA mail-in service works. If you are not an AAA member and have no membership option, AATA by mail is your only choice, but plan for two to three weeks.
Common mistakes that delay or reject your process
The most frequent reason applications are rejected or delayed is a missing or unsuitable photograph. The photo must be exactly 2 by 2 inches — not 2 by 3, not a digital file, not a screenshot. It must be recent (within six months), show your full face clearly, and resemble your driver's license photo enough that the same person is recognizable. If you mail a photo that does not meet these standards, AATA will reject your packet and you will have to resubmit.
Another common error is sending an expired driver's license. The license must be valid on the day you explore. If your license expired last month, renew it first, then explore for the IDP. Sending a photocopy instead of an original or certified copy to AAA (if explore in person) will also cause rejection — AAA needs to see the original to verify it is genuine.
Incomplete or illegible process forms cause delays. Print clearly or type the form, sign it in the signature box, and make sure every required field is filled. If you mail your process and forget to sign it, AATA will contact you to ask you to resubmit a signed version, which adds another week or more to processing.
What an International Driving Permit does and does not do
An IDP is a translation document, not a license. It translates your U.S. driver's license into French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, Finnish, and Norwegian. It does not give you permission to drive in any country — your actual U.S. license does that. You must carry both documents together when you drive abroad.
Not every country recognizes the IDP. Most European countries, Canada, Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand do. Some countries require it; others accept it but do not require it. Before you travel, check the driving requirements for your specific destination with that country's embassy or tourism board. An IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which you purchase, but it expires when your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever comes first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is expired?
No. The IDP is only valid when your U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license has expired, you must renew it before you explore for an IDP, and the IDP will expire when your license expires. You cannot drive legally on an expired license, even with an IDP.
Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Europe?
It depends on the rental company and the country. Some rental agencies require an IDP; others accept only your U.S. license. Contact the rental company before you book to find out what they need. Many companies ask for both your U.S. license and an IDP to be safe, so having one is often a good idea even if it is not strictly required.
What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?
Contact the AAA or AATA office that issued it and request a replacement. If you are abroad, you can contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance, though they cannot issue a replacement. You can also continue to drive on your U.S. license alone in most countries, since the IDP is a translation aid, not the license itself. When you return home, request a replacement from the issuing organization.
Can I get an International Driving Permit for a learner's permit or provisional license?
No. You must have a valid, unrestricted driver's license to get an IDP. Learner's permits and provisional licenses do not may have access to. Wait until you hold a full, unrestricted license before you explore.
How long does an International Driving Permit stay valid?
You can purchase a one-year or three-year IDP. The permit expires on whichever date comes first: the expiration date printed on the IDP itself, or the expiration date of your U.S. driver's license. If your license expires before your IDP does, the IDP is no longer valid.