International Driving Permit prices in the United States

An International Driving Permit (IDP) costs between $15 and $20 in the United States, depending on which organization issues it. The American Automobile Association (AAA) charges $20 for a permit valid for one year, or $30 for a three-year permit. The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) charges $15 for a one-year permit. Both are legitimate, recognized issuers approved by the U.S. State Department.

The actual permit itself is inexpensive. What matters more is whether you already belong to AAA or can reach an AATA office, because both organizations have physical locations you must visit in person. You cannot order an IDP online and have it mailed to you — you must explore face-to-face with your valid U.S. driver's license and a passport or passport card in hand.

If you are traveling internationally soon and need an IDP quickly, factor in the time to locate an office near you and the cost of getting there. Some travelers find it cheaper to visit a local AAA branch than to drive an hour to the nearest AATA office, even though AAA's permit costs more.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit costs $15 to $20 depending on the issuer and validity period you choose.
  • You must explore in person at a AAA office or AATA location with your valid U.S. driver's license and a passport or passport card.
  • AAA offers one-year permits for $20 and three-year permits for $30; AATA offers one-year permits for $15.
  • The permit itself is cheap, but you pay for the time and travel to reach an issuing office.

What you need to bring to get an IDP

Bring three things: your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or U.S. passport card, and payment. Some offices accept cash, check, or card; call ahead to confirm what your local office takes. You do not need to make an appointment at most AAA locations, but AATA offices vary — some take walk-ins, others require you to call first.

Bring a passport or passport card, not a birth certificate or state ID. The IDP is a translation of your driver's license into multiple languages, and it is only valid when carried alongside your actual driver's license and passport. If you do not have a passport yet, you will need to obtain one before you can get an IDP.

The whole process takes about 15 to 30 minutes at the office. You will fill out a short form, show your documents, pay, and receive your permit on the spot.

How long an IDP stays valid

A one-year IDP expires one year from the date of issue. A three-year IDP expires three years from the date of issue. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. An IDP is only valid when your U.S. driver's license is also valid — if your license expires before your IDP does, the permit becomes useless.

Some countries recognize a one-year IDP; others accept three-year permits. Before you buy, check the rules for the country or countries you plan to visit. Your travel guide, the country's embassy website, or your rental car company can tell you which duration that country recognizes. Buying a three-year permit when you only need one year wastes money, but buying a one-year permit when you need three means you will have to reapply before your next trip.

AAA versus AATA: which issuer to choose

Choose based on location and cost. AAA has far more offices nationwide — nearly 1,000 branches — so most people can reach one within a short drive. AATA has fewer locations, concentrated in certain regions. If you live near an AATA office and do not belong to AAA, AATA's lower price ($15 versus $20) makes it the better choice. If you are already an AAA member, you might as well use your local branch.

Both organizations issue the same permit. The IDP from AAA is identical to the IDP from AATA in every country that recognizes it. The only difference is price and how far you have to travel. AAA membership is not required to buy an IDP from AAA — you can walk into any branch and purchase one without joining.

To find a AAA office, visit aaa.com and use their branch locator. To find an AATA office, visit aata.org. Both websites let you search by zip code or city.

When to get your IDP before traveling

Get your IDP at least one week before you travel, though two weeks is safer. The permit is issued on the spot, so you do not need to wait for mail, but you do need to find an office, travel there, and complete the process. If you wait until the day before your flight, you risk finding that your nearest office is closed or has a long wait.

If you are renting a car abroad, some rental companies ask to see your IDP when you pick up the vehicle. Having it in hand before you leave the United States prevents delays or disputes at the rental counter. If you are driving your own car across a border, the rules vary by country — some require an IDP, others do not. Check the entry requirements for your destination before you book your trip.

What an IDP does and does not do

An IDP translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages so that police, rental car agents, and border officials can read your license information. It is not a separate license and does not replace your U.S. license. You must carry both your IDP and your valid U.S. driver's license together at all times when driving abroad.

An IDP does not change your driving privileges or allow you to drive in countries where you would otherwise be banned. It does not extend your license validity if your U.S. license has expired. It does not override local traffic laws or insurance requirements. It is purely a translation document — a convenience for people reading your license in a country where English is not the primary language.

Frequently Asked Questions

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 get an IDP. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP. If your license is about to expire, renew it before you explore for the permit.

Do I need an IDP to rent a car in another country?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Some countries legally require an IDP; others do not. Most major rental car companies recommend having one, even if it is not required by law. Check with your rental company and the country's embassy before you travel to know for certain.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

You cannot replace it abroad. If you lose it, you still have your U.S. driver's license, which is your actual legal driving credential. Some rental companies or police may ask for the IDP, but your U.S. license alone is still valid. When you return home, you can buy a new IDP from AAA or AATA for the same price.

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

Yes. "International Driving Permit" and "international driver's license" refer to the same document. It is issued by AAA or AATA in the United States and is recognized in over 150 countries. Do not confuse it with a foreign driver's license, which is a separate credential issued by another country.

How much does an IDP cost if I renew it after it expires?

You pay the full price again — $15 to $20 for a one-year permit, or $30 for a three-year permit from AAA. There is no discount for renewal. You must visit an office in person and bring your valid U.S. driver's license and passport again, just as you did the first time.