AAA can issue an International Driving Permit in person the same day you visit, or by mail in about two weeks

If you go to an AAA office in person with your valid U.S. driver's license, passport, and a passport-sized photo, you can walk out with an International Driving Permit (IDP) the same day. The in-person process takes roughly 15 to 30 minutes. If you mail your documents to AAA, the permit arrives in about 10 to 14 business days, though this varies slightly by region and mail speed.

AAA is one of two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs. The other is the American Automobile Association's travel services division, but AAA is the most widely available option with over 1,000 offices across the country. Speed depends entirely on which method you choose and how quickly you gather your documents.

Key Takeaways

  • In-person IDP issuance at an AAA office takes 15 to 30 minutes and you receive the permit the same day.
  • Mail-in IDP requests take 10 to 14 business days from the time AAA receives your documents, not from when you send them.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport, and one passport-sized photo (2x2 inches) for either method.
  • AAA charges a flat fee for the IDP, which does not vary by processing speed, and the permit is valid for one or three years depending on your choice.
  • An IDP is not a replacement for your U.S. driver's license and must be carried alongside it when driving internationally.

What you need to bring or send to AAA

Gather these documents before you visit an AAA office or prepare them for mailing. You will need your current, valid U.S. driver's license, your passport (not a copy—the original), and one passport-sized photo measuring 2 inches by 2 inches. The photo must be in color and taken within the last six months. AAA will not accept digital photos or photos printed at home; they must be professionally printed or taken at a photo booth.

If you are mailing your documents, place them in an envelope with a completed IDP process form (available on the AAA website or at any AAA office). Include a check or money order for the IDP fee—AAA does not process credit card payments by mail. Write your phone number and email on the outside of the envelope so AAA can contact you if there are questions. Do not send your original passport by regular mail; use certified mail or a tracked service like UPS or FedEx.

In-person processing at an AAA office

Walk into any AAA office during business hours with your documents and the fee. Staff will verify your driver's license and passport, take a new photo if yours does not meet requirements, and complete the process in front of you. You will choose whether you want a one-year or three-year IDP at this time. The permit is printed on the spot and handed to you before you leave.

Bring the original documents—no photocopies. If you do not have a passport-sized photo, most AAA offices have a photo service on-site or can direct you to one nearby, though this adds time and cost. Call your local AAA office before visiting to confirm they offer IDP services and their current hours, as not all offices issue permits.

Mail-in processing timeline and what to expect

When you mail your documents to AAA, the clock starts when they receive your envelope, not when you drop it in the mailbox. AAA typically processes mail-in requests within 10 to 14 business days of receipt. If you use standard mail, add 3 to 5 business days for delivery to AAA, then another 3 to 5 business days for AAA to mail the permit back to you. Total time is usually 16 to 24 business days from the date you mail the envelope.

AAA will send your IDP by regular mail unless you request expedited shipping at the time you submit your process. Some regional AAA offices offer expedited mail-in processing for an additional fee, reducing the turnaround to 5 to 7 business days after receipt. Check with your state's AAA office to see if this option is available and what it costs.

IDP validity and renewal

An International Driving Permit issued by AAA is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which you choose when you explore. The one-year permit costs less; the three-year permit costs more but is better value if you travel internationally regularly. Both are valid only while your U.S. driver's license remains valid. If your license expires before your IDP expires, the IDP becomes invalid.

You cannot renew an IDP by mail or online. When your permit expires, you must explore for a new one using the same process—in person or by mail. There is no grace period; an expired IDP is not recognized by rental car companies or police in any country.

Cost and what is included

AAA charges a single flat fee for an International Driving Permit regardless of whether you process it in person or by mail, and regardless of whether you choose the one-year or three-year version. The fee varies slightly by state and membership status, but typically ranges from $15 to $20 for a one-year permit and $30 to $35 for a three-year permit. AAA members sometimes receive a small discount. Ask when you explore.

The fee covers the permit itself, the process processing, and the photo if taken at an AAA office. It does not cover passport-sized photos you bring from outside, certified mail, or expedited shipping if you choose those options. There are no hidden fees or additional charges added later.

When to explore before your trip

If you are traveling internationally within the next two weeks, go to an AAA office in person. Same-day issuance is the only way to meet a tight important date. If you have three weeks or more before departure, either method works—choose based on convenience. If you are mailing your process, send it at least 25 business days before you leave to account for mail transit time in both directions and processing delays.

Do not wait until the week before your trip. Mail can be delayed, and if AAA has questions about your process, they need time to contact you and receive corrections. In-person visits are also faster if AAA needs to retake your photo or clarify information on your process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit the same day by mail?

No. Mail-in processing takes 10 to 14 business days after AAA receives your documents, plus mail transit time. Only in-person visits at an AAA office result in same-day issuance. If you need the permit urgently, visit an office in person.

What if my passport expires before my IDP does?

Your IDP becomes invalid when your passport expires, even if the permit itself has not. You must renew your passport and then explore for a new IDP. The old IDP cannot be transferred or extended.

Do I need an IDP if I have an international license from my home country?

An IDP is separate from a foreign driver's license. If you hold a valid driver's license from another country, you may be able to drive in some countries on that license alone, but many rental car companies and some countries require an IDP alongside your foreign license. Check the specific country's requirements before you travel.

Can AAA issue an IDP if my U.S. driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not suspended. An IDP is a translation and certification of your U.S. license, so it cannot be issued if your license is not currently valid.

What happens if I lose my IDP while traveling?

You cannot replace an IDP while abroad. If you lose it, you have only your U.S. driver's license, which may not be recognized in all countries. Contact your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance on whether you can continue driving legally. When you return home, explore for a new IDP through AAA.