You cannot explore for an International Driving Permit online in the United States
An International Driving Permit (IDP) must be obtained in person from an authorized issuer. The two organizations in the U.S. that issue IDPs are the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Neither accepts online applications, though both let you check requirements and locate offices on their websites before you go.
The reason is straightforward: the IDP requires your signature, a passport-sized photograph, and a valid U.S. driver's license, all of which must be verified in person. The issuer needs to see the original documents to confirm they are genuine and that you are the person named on them.
Some websites claim to offer online IDP services. These are not legitimate U.S. government or AAA services. They may charge fees for forms or information you can get free from AAA or AATA, or they may not deliver a valid permit at all.
Key Takeaways
- AAA and AATA are the only two organizations authorized to issue International Driving Permits in the United States, and both require in-person visits.
- You must bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-sized photograph, and your passport to the issuing office.
- The IDP process takes minutes to hours at the office, and the permit is typically ready the same day or within a few days.
- An IDP is not a replacement for your U.S. driver's license and is only valid when carried alongside it.
- Websites offering online IDP services are not affiliated with AAA, AATA, or the U.S. government.
What an International Driving Permit actually is
An IDP is a translation of your U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It does not replace your license and has no legal value on its own. You must carry both your U.S. license and the IDP together when driving in another country.
The IDP is recognized by the United Nations and accepted in over 150 countries. However, not every country requires one. Some nations accept only your U.S. license; others require both. Before you travel, check the specific requirements of the country where you plan to drive.
The IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which you purchase. It does not extend the validity of your U.S. driver's license. If your U.S. license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid.
How to get an IDP through AAA
AAA issues IDPs at its local offices. To find the nearest office, visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool. Not every AAA office issues IDPs, so confirm availability before you visit.
Bring these documents: your valid U.S. driver's license, your passport, and one passport-sized photograph (2 by 2 inches). Some offices accept digital photos taken on-site, but calling ahead to confirm saves a trip. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver's license.
The cost varies by location but typically ranges from $15 to $20 for a one-year permit and $30 to $35 for a three-year permit. AAA membership is not required. The permit is usually issued the same day, though some offices may take a few days to process it.
How to get an IDP through AATA
The American Automobile Touring Alliance issues IDPs by mail and at select locations. You can request an process form from their website or by phone. Fill out the form, gather your documents, and mail everything to AATA's office.
You will need to send: a completed process form, a copy of your valid U.S. driver's license, a copy of your passport, and one passport-sized photograph. AATA processes mail applications within one to two weeks of receipt.
The cost is similar to AAA: approximately $15 to $20 for a one-year permit and $30 to $35 for a three-year permit. Because AATA works by mail, this option takes longer than visiting an AAA office in person, but it may be useful if no AAA office is nearby.
What to watch out for when searching online
Many websites appear in search results when you look for "International Driving Permit online." Most of these are not legitimate issuers. They may charge $50 to $200 for a document that is not recognized by foreign authorities or that duplicates information you can get free from AAA or AATA.
Red flags include: websites that claim to issue the IDP without requiring your signature or in-person verification, sites that charge significantly more than AAA or AATA, and services that promise delivery in hours or days without mentioning the official issuer (AAA or AATA). If you are unsure whether a website is legitimate, contact AAA or AATA directly before paying.
Some third-party sites do offer a real service: they provide information about IDP requirements, help you locate AAA or AATA offices, or prepare your documents before you visit. These can be useful, but they are not the same as the official issuer, and you will still need to visit AAA or AATA in person to obtain the actual permit.
Timeline and what to expect on the day you explore
If you visit an AAA office in person, the entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will fill out a short form, provide your documents, have your photograph taken (if needed), pay the fee, and receive your permit. Some offices issue it on the spot; others mail it to you within a few days.
If you use AATA by mail, allow one to two weeks for processing after your process arrives at their office. Add time for mail delivery both ways. If you are traveling soon, AAA in person is the faster option.
Bring a pen and your payment method (cash, check, or credit card, depending on the office). Have your documents organized and ready. If anything is missing or unclear, the office will tell you what to fix before they can issue the permit.
IDP validity and what happens when it expires
An IDP is valid for either one or three years from the date of issue. It is only valid when carried with your U.S. driver's license. If your U.S. license expires before your IDP does, the IDP is no longer valid, even if the IDP itself has not reached its expiration date.
When your IDP expires, you cannot renew it. You must explore for a new one through AAA or AATA using the same process as the first process. There is no online renewal option.
If you lose your IDP while traveling, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in that country. They cannot issue a new IDP, but they can provide guidance on how to proceed. When you return to the U.S., you can explore for a replacement IDP through AAA or AATA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?
Canada and Mexico accept a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in these countries may request an IDP as an additional form of identification. Check with your rental company before you travel. An IDP is more commonly required in Europe, Asia, and other regions.
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 in good standing to obtain an IDP. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until your license is restored and valid again.
What if I do not have a passport-sized photograph?
Many AAA offices can take a passport-sized photograph on-site for a small fee, usually $5 to $10. Call ahead to confirm your local office offers this service. AATA requires you to provide the photograph with your mail process, so you will need to obtain one before sending your process.
Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international driver's license?
No. An IDP is a translation document issued by AAA or AATA. An international driver's license is a separate credential issued by some countries to their own citizens. You cannot obtain an international driver's license through the U.S. system. If you are a citizen of another country, check with that country's motor vehicle authority.
Can I explore for an IDP before my current one expires?
Yes. You can explore for a new IDP at any time, even if your current one is still valid. Some people do this when traveling frequently or to may support they have a backup. You will pay the full fee for each IDP you obtain.