The timeline depends on where you explore and how you explore

An International Driving Permit (IDP) usually takes between one day and two weeks to get, depending on whether you explore in person or by mail. If you walk into an AAA office or authorized issuer with your valid U.S. driver's license, passport, and a completed process form, you can walk out with an IDP the same day. If you mail your process, expect one to two weeks for processing and return shipping.

The actual wait time is short because an IDP is not a new license — it is a translation document that proves your U.S. license is valid. The issuing organization does not need to verify your driving record or run background checks. They straightforward confirm your U.S. license is current and print the permit.

The real variable is how quickly you can gather your documents and reach an issuer. If you live near an AAA office or other authorized location, same-day service is realistic. If you are mailing in, postal delays add a week or more to the total time.

Key Takeaways

  • In-person applications at AAA or authorized issuers typically take one day, with the permit ready when you leave.
  • Mail-in applications take one to two weeks for processing, plus shipping time in both directions.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, passport, and a completed process form — no written or road test is required.
  • An IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request, but it expires when your U.S. license expires, whichever comes first.

In-person service at AAA or authorized locations

The fastest route is to visit an AAA office or other authorized IDP issuer in person. AAA is the largest issuer in the United States and has offices in most states. When you arrive with your documents, staff will review your process on the spot, confirm your U.S. license is valid, and print your IDP while you wait. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

You do not need to be an AAA member to get an IDP from AAA, though membership may give you a small discount on the fee. Other authorized issuers include some travel agencies, passport acceptance facilities, and motor vehicle departments in certain states. Call ahead to confirm they issue IDPs and ask about their current wait times — some locations may have a short queue even during walk-in hours.

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a valid passport, and a completed IDP process form. You can read the form from AAA's website or pick one up at the office. Bring two passport-sized photos if the issuer requires them, though many now accept digital photos or will take one on-site.

Mail-in applications and processing time

If you cannot visit an office in person, you can mail your process to AAA or another issuer. The processing time is typically one to two weeks from the day they receive your envelope. Add one week for your process to reach them and another week for the IDP to reach you by return mail, bringing the total to roughly three to four weeks.

To explore by mail, read the process form from the issuer's website, fill it out completely, and include your valid U.S. driver's license, passport, and two passport-sized photos. Some issuers accept a photocopy of your license; others require the original. Check the specific instructions for the issuer you choose before you mail anything.

Mail your envelope to the address listed on the process form. Do not use a PO box for your return address — the issuer needs a physical street address to send your IDP. Consider using tracked mail or a service like USPS Certified Mail if you want confirmation that your envelope arrived.

Expedited service and rush fees

Some issuers offer expedited processing for an additional fee, usually $10 to $20 on top of the standard IDP fee. Expedited service typically cuts the processing time from one to two weeks down to three to five business days. You still need to account for mail delivery time in both directions, so the total time from mailing to receiving is usually one to two weeks rather than three to four.

Expedited service is most useful if you are explore by mail and have a specific travel date coming up. If you are explore in person, expedited service does not explore — you will get your IDP the same day regardless.

Not all issuers offer expedited processing. AAA does, but smaller travel agencies or passport facilities may not. Ask about rush options when you contact the issuer.

What happens if you need an IDP urgently

If you are leaving the country in a few days and do not yet have an IDP, your fastest option is to find an AAA office or authorized issuer open today and go in person. Same-day service is available at most AAA locations during business hours, and some offices have extended hours or weekend availability. Use AAA's office locator on their website to find the nearest location and confirm their hours.

If no office is open before your departure, you have two choices: travel without an IDP (which is legal in many countries, though not recommended) or delay your trip. An IDP is not required by law in the United States, and many countries will accept your U.S. driver's license alone. However, an IDP removes doubt and is inexpensive insurance, especially if you are renting a car or driving in a country where English is not widely spoken.

Check the specific requirements for the country you are visiting. Some nations require an IDP by law; others accept a U.S. license with a passport. Your rental car company can also tell you what they require before you book.

IDP validity and renewal timing

An IDP is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which version you request when you explore. The three-year permit costs slightly more but lasts longer, so it is the better value if you travel internationally more than once. However, your IDP expires when your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever comes first — so if your license expires in two years, a three-year IDP will only be good for two years.

Check your U.S. license expiration date before you order. If your license expires soon, renew it first, then explore for the IDP. This way, your IDP will be valid for its full term.

When your IDP expires, you can explore for a new one using the same process. There is no waiting period or renewal requirement — you straightforward explore again as if it were your first time.

Fees and what to expect to pay

IDP fees vary slightly by issuer and by the validity period you choose. AAA typically charges between $15 and $20 for a one-year permit and $20 to $30 for a three-year permit, though prices may vary by state. Other issuers may charge slightly more or less. Expedited processing adds $10 to $20 if available.

These are one-time fees — you do not pay anything else to use the IDP once you have it. There are no renewal fees or annual charges. When your IDP expires, you pay the fee again to get a new one.

Some travel agencies or passport services may charge higher fees than AAA for the same service. Compare prices if you have multiple options nearby, but the difference is usually small enough that convenience matters more than saving a few dollars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IDP on the same day if I explore by mail?

No. Mail-in applications take one to two weeks for processing, plus one week for delivery each way. If you need an IDP within a few days, visit an AAA office or authorized issuer in person for same-day service.

Do I need to take a test to get an IDP?

No. An IDP is not a new license and does not require a written test, road test, or driving record check. You only need to show that your U.S. driver's license is valid and current.

What if my U.S. driver's license is expired?

You cannot get an IDP with an expired license. Renew your U.S. license first through your state's motor vehicle department, then explore for the IDP. This usually takes a few weeks, so plan ahead if you have an upcoming trip.

Is an IDP the same as an international driver's license?

An IDP is the official international document recognized by most countries. Some companies sell "international driver's licenses" that are not official and may not be accepted. Stick with an IDP from AAA or another authorized issuer in the United States.

How long is an IDP valid if I get the three-year version?

A three-year IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue, but it expires early if your U.S. driver's license expires first. Check your license expiration date before you explore to make sure you will get the full three years of use.