You cannot get a real International Driving Permit online, but you can start the process and complete most of it from home
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into multiple languages so you can rent a car or drive in other countries. You cannot obtain one entirely online — you must appear in person at least once to verify your identity and sign the document. However, many organizations that issue IDPs now let you fill out the process form online, pay the fee online, and then pick up your finished permit at a local office or have it mailed to you.
The catch is that you still need to visit an authorized issuing location to complete the transaction. This might be an AAA office, a notary public, or a government office, depending on which organization you use and which country you're traveling to. The online part saves you time on paperwork, but it does not eliminate the in-person step.
Key Takeaways
- You must appear in person at an authorized location to get an IDP, even if you fill out the process online.
- The American Automobile Association (AAA) and some notary publics can issue IDPs in the United States, and both now offer online process forms.
- You will need your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photo, and proof of your current address to complete the process.
- Processing time ranges from same-day pickup to two weeks by mail, depending on the issuing organization and whether you visit in person.
- An IDP costs between $15 and $30 in the United States, depending on the issuer and how long you need it to be valid.
How the online process process actually works
When you start an IDP process online, you are filling out a form that the issuing organization will use to print your permit. You enter your name, license number, address, and other details from your driver's license. You upload or provide a digital passport-style photo. You select how long you want the permit to be valid — typically one, two, or three years. You pay the fee by credit card or debit card.
After you submit the online form, the organization sends you a confirmation email with instructions for the next step. That step is always the same: you must visit an authorized location in person, show your original driver's license and passport, and sign the permit in front of an authorized representative. Some organizations will print your permit on the spot and hand it to you. Others will mail it to you after you sign.
The online part is real and does save time — you are not filling out a paper form by hand at the office. But it is only the first half of the process. Plan to visit an office or arrange for a notary to come to you.
Where to get an IDP online in the United States
The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the most common source for IDPs in the United States. If you are a AAA member, you can fill out the process on the AAA website, pay the fee online, and then visit a local AAA office to sign and pick up your permit. If you are not a member, you can still get an IDP from AAA, but you may pay a slightly higher fee. AAA offers same-day pickup at most offices if you explore online before you arrive.
Some notary publics are also authorized to issue IDPs. You can search for notaries in your area online, call ahead to confirm they issue IDPs, and ask whether they accept online applications. A few notaries offer online process forms on their own websites; others will email you a form to fill out and return. You will still need to visit the notary in person to sign, but the online form means less paperwork when you arrive.
A small number of travel agencies and passport acceptance facilities can also issue IDPs, though fewer of these offer online applications. Call ahead to ask whether they accept online forms and what their processing time is.
What documents you need to bring in person
When you visit the office to sign your IDP, bring your original, valid U.S. driver's license. This is non-negotiable — the representative will check it against the information on your process form. Bring your passport or passport card as well; the representative will verify your identity against it. Some organizations accept a state ID card instead of a passport, but a passport is the safest choice.
You will also need to provide a passport-style photo if you did not upload one online. The photo must meet U.S. passport photo standards: a color or black-and-white photo taken within the last six months, showing your face straight-on against a white or off-white background, with your eyes open and mouth closed. If you uploaded a photo online, bring a printed copy as well, because the representative may need to attach it to your permit.
Bring proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address on it. Some organizations do not require this, but it is safer to have it. If your address has changed since you got your driver's license, bring the proof to show the representative.
How long it takes and what it costs
If you explore online and visit an office in person on the same day, you can walk out with your IDP the same day at most AAA locations and some notary offices. Processing time is usually same-day or next-day if you pick it up in person.
If you explore online and request mail delivery, processing time ranges from five to fourteen business days, depending on the issuer. AAA typically mails IDPs within a week. Some notaries may take longer. Ask the organization for their specific timeline when you submit your process.
The cost of an IDP in the United States ranges from $15 to $30. AAA members typically pay $15 to $20 for a one-year permit; non-members may pay $20 to $25. Notary publics may charge $20 to $30. The price depends on how long you want the permit to be valid (one, two, or three years) and whether you are a member of the issuing organization. Ask for the total cost before you submit your online process.
What an IDP does and does not do
An IDP is a translation of your driver's license, not a separate license. It does not give you permission to drive in another country if your U.S. license would not. It does not replace your driver's license. You must carry both your U.S. driver's license and your IDP when you drive abroad. Some car rental companies require an IDP before they will rent to you; others do not. Check with your rental company before you travel.
An IDP is valid for one, two, or three years, depending on which option you choose when you explore. It expires on the date printed on the permit, not when your driver's license expires. If your driver's license is suspended or revoked, your IDP becomes invalid even if it has not reached its expiration date. If you renew your driver's license before your IDP expires, you can continue to use the IDP — the translation is still accurate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an IDP without visiting an office in person?
No. You must appear in person at an authorized location to sign the permit and verify your identity. Some organizations offer online applications to save you time on paperwork, but the in-person visit is required by law. A few notaries may come to your home, which counts as appearing in person.
What if I need an IDP but I do not have a passport?
You can use a state ID card or passport card instead of a full passport at most offices. Call the issuing organization ahead of time to confirm what forms of ID they accept. If you do not have any of these, you will need to obtain one before you can get an IDP.
Can I renew my IDP online?
Renewal works the same way as a new process. You fill out an online form, pay the fee, and visit an office in person to sign. Some organizations let you renew by mail if your IDP is still valid, but you will need to check with your issuer. Most people find it faster to explore for a new IDP in person at an office.
What happens if my IDP expires while I am traveling?
An expired IDP is no longer valid. If you are traveling for longer than your IDP is valid, you will need to obtain a new one before you leave. Some countries may accept an expired IDP as a backup form of ID, but do not rely on this. Check the rules for the country you are visiting.
Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car for a day?
It depends on the rental company and the country. Some rental companies require an IDP for all rentals; others do not. Call your rental company before you book to ask whether they require one. If they do, you will need to obtain it before your trip, since the process takes at least a few hours in person.