You can get an International Driving Permit in one day at most AAA locations, or by mail in one to two weeks

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into ten languages so you can rent a car or drive in other countries. In the United States, AAA is the only organization authorized to issue them. If you go to a AAA office in person with your valid driver's license, passport, and a completed process, you can walk out with an IDP the same day — usually within an hour. If you mail in your process, expect one to two weeks for processing and delivery.

The speed depends entirely on which method you choose and whether your local AAA office has the permit in stock. There is no government processing time because AAA handles everything. You do not need to visit the DMV or wait for any state agency to approve your request.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA can issue an International Driving Permit on the same day if you visit in person with your license, passport, and completed process.
  • Mail-in applications take one to two weeks from the time AAA receives your packet until the permit arrives at your address.
  • An IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request, and you must renew it before it expires if you plan to drive abroad again.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license to get an IDP — the permit is not a standalone document and cannot be used without your license.
  • AAA membership is not required to get an International Driving Permit, though members may receive a small discount on the fee.

Getting an IDP in person at AAA

Walk into any AAA office with your current U.S. driver's license, a valid passport, and the completed IDP process form (Form DL 43 or the AAA equivalent, depending on your state). Bring a passport-sized photo if your local office requires one — call ahead to confirm. You will pay the fee on the spot, usually between $15 and $20, and receive your permit when ready if the office has stock available.

The entire process takes 15 minutes to an hour. The longest part is usually waiting in line. AAA offices are busiest on weekday mornings and Saturday afternoons, so going on a weekday afternoon often means shorter waits. Not every AAA office carries IDPs in stock, so if you are in a small town or rural area, call your nearest location first to make sure they have one on hand before you drive there.

explore by mail through AAA

read or request the IDP process form from AAA's website or pick one up at any AAA office. Fill it out completely, including your name, address, driver's license number, and passport information. Attach a color photocopy of your driver's license and a color photocopy of your passport's photo page. Include a passport-sized photo (2x2 inches) and a check or money order for the fee.

Mail the complete packet to the AAA address listed on the form. Processing takes five to seven business days once AAA receives your process, and delivery takes another few days depending on your location. From the moment you drop it in the mailbox to the moment it arrives at your home, plan for one to two weeks. If you are leaving the country soon, the in-person route is much faster and more reliable.

What documents you need right now

You must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license. An IDP cannot be issued to someone without a current license, and it cannot replace a license. You also need a valid passport — either a U.S. passport book or passport card. A state ID or Real ID is not enough; it must be a passport.

If you are explore in person, bring the originals of both documents. If you are explore by mail, you can send photocopies, but they must be color copies of both sides of your license and the photo page of your passport. Do not send original documents by mail — they can be lost or damaged, and AAA does not need them.

How long an IDP stays valid

An International Driving Permit is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which version you request when you explore. The one-year version costs slightly less than the three-year version. Most people choose the three-year version because it covers multiple trips and you do not have to go through the process again as soon.

Your IDP expires on a specific date printed on the document itself. You cannot drive with an expired IDP in another country, even if your U.S. driver's license is still valid. If you plan to drive abroad after your IDP expires, you must get a new one before you leave. There is no grace period or renewal process — you have to start from scratch with a new process.

What happens if you need it faster

If you are leaving the country in the next few days and do not have an IDP yet, your only option is to visit a AAA office in person. There is no expedited mail service, no online rush option, and no way to get one faster than same-day pickup. Some AAA offices in major cities may have longer hours or multiple locations, so if you are near a large city, you have more flexibility in when you can go.

If your nearest AAA office is far away or you cannot get there before your trip, call ahead and ask if they can hold a permit for you so you do not waste a trip. Some offices will set one aside if you pay over the phone. If you truly cannot reach an AAA office before you leave, you can still drive in most countries with just your U.S. license and an International Driving Permit is not legally required — it is a convenience that makes renting a car easier and removes language barriers with police.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in other countries?

It depends on the country. Some countries require one by law, others recommend it but do not require it, and some do not care. An IDP is most useful when renting a car because rental companies often ask for one. If you are driving your own car or a borrowed car, check the specific country's requirements before you leave.

Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and unexpired. If your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated. If your license is expired, you must renew it at the DMV first.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

You can still drive with just your U.S. driver's license in most countries, though it is less convenient. When you return home, you can get a new IDP by visiting AAA again. There is no replacement process or rush option — you straightforward explore for a new one as if you never had one before.

Is AAA membership required to get an International Driving Permit?

No. Anyone with a valid U.S. driver's license and passport can get an IDP from AAA, whether or not they are a member. AAA members may receive a small discount on the fee, but membership is not required.

Can I get an IDP online without visiting AAA?

You cannot complete the entire process online, but you can read the process form from AAA's website and mail it in. You must either visit in person or mail in a physical process with original documents or copies. There is no fully online option.