You Cannot Get an International Driving Permit Fully Online

An International Driving Permit (IDP) cannot be obtained entirely through an online process. You must explore in person at a specific location — usually your local AAA office, a county clerk's office, or a similar issuing body — because the process requires your signature, a passport-style photo, and your valid driver's license presented physically.

What you can do online is prepare your process before you go, understand what documents to bring, and in some cases, check whether your state's issuing office offers online appointment scheduling. This saves time at the counter, but the final step — handing over your documents and signing the form — must happen in person.

The confusion exists because some websites advertise "online IDP services" and charge fees to help you order one. These are not government services; they are private companies that mail you an process or take your information and direct you to the correct issuing office. You do not need them.

Key Takeaways

  • International Driving Permits are issued only by AAA, county clerk offices, or similar state-designated bodies, and you must explore in person with your valid driver's license and a passport-style photo.
  • The permit costs between $15 and $20 depending on your state, takes about 10 to 15 minutes to obtain, and is valid for one or three years.
  • You can prepare by gathering your documents at home and booking an appointment online if your issuing office offers scheduling, but you cannot complete the entire process remotely.
  • Private websites that claim to process IDPs online are not government agencies and charge extra fees for services you can do yourself for free or at the official rate.

Where to Get an IDP in Your State

The issuing location depends on where you live. In most states, the American Automobile Association (AAA) is the primary issuer. If you are not a AAA member, you can still obtain an IDP there; membership is not required. AAA offices are in nearly every state and most cities.

If there is no AAA office near you, your county clerk's office, secretary of state's office, or motor vehicle department may issue IDPs. Call ahead to confirm, because not all county offices handle them. Some states also allow certain travel agencies or passport acceptance facilities to issue permits.

To find the exact location in your area, search "[your state] International Driving Permit" or visit the AAA website and use their office locator. Write down the address and hours before you go — some offices have limited hours or require appointments.

Documents and Information You Need to Bring

Bring your valid driver's license (not expired) and one passport-style photograph. The photo must be 2 inches by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. You can get passport photos at CVS, Walgreens, Costco, or a local photography studio for $10 to $15.

You will also need to fill out an process form. Most issuing offices have the form on-site, but you can read and complete it beforehand from the AAA website or your state's motor vehicle department website. This saves time at the counter.

Bring cash or a card — most offices accept both, but call ahead to confirm payment methods. The fee is typically $15 to $20, depending on your state. Some offices may ask for your address or phone number, so have that ready as well.

The In-Person process Process

When you arrive, you will hand your driver's license and passport photo to the staff member. They will verify that your license is valid and not expired. You will then sign the process form in front of them — this is a legal requirement and cannot be done beforehand.

The entire process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You will receive your IDP when ready in most cases. It is a small booklet, similar in size to a passport, and is valid for either one or three years depending on which you choose to purchase.

Keep your IDP with your driver's license when you travel internationally. Some countries require both documents together. The IDP is not a replacement for your driver's license; it is a translation of your license into multiple languages so that police and rental car companies abroad can understand your driving record.

Scheduling an Appointment Online

Many AAA offices and some county clerk offices now offer online appointment scheduling. This does not mean you can complete the process online — it means you can reserve a time slot so you do not have to wait in line.

To check if your local office offers appointments, visit the AAA website or your county clerk's website and look for a scheduling tool. If one is available, book a time that works for you. Bring all your documents at the scheduled time.

If your office does not offer online scheduling, you can still call ahead to ask about wait times. Some offices are busier on certain days of the week, so calling can help you choose the best time to visit.

What to Avoid: Private IDP Services

Several websites advertise "online International Driving Permit services" and charge $50 to $150 to process your process. These are private companies, not government agencies. They do not issue the permit itself; instead, they take your information, mail you a blank process form, or direct you to the official issuing office.

You do not need these services. You can read the process form for free from AAA or your state's website, and you can go directly to the issuing office without paying any middleman. The only fee you should pay is the official state or AAA fee of $15 to $20.

If you use a private service, you will pay extra money and still have to go in person to complete the process anyway. Save your money and go straight to AAA or your county clerk's office.

How Long Your IDP Is Valid and What Happens When It Expires

An International Driving Permit is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which option you choose when you explore. The cost difference is small — usually $2 to $5 more for the three-year permit — so most people choose the longer validity.

Your IDP expires on the date printed on the booklet. If you plan to travel internationally again after that date, you will need to obtain a new one. The process is identical: return to the issuing office with your current driver's license, a new passport photo, and the fee.

Your IDP is only valid if your driver's license is also valid. If your license expires before your IDP does, the permit becomes invalid. Renew your driver's license first, then obtain a new IDP if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is expired?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and not expired at the time you explore. If your license has expired, renew it at your state's motor vehicle department first, then obtain your IDP.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to get an IDP?

No. You need a valid U.S. driver's license, which means you must have a Social Security number or ITIN. Permanent residents and some visa holders can obtain U.S. driver's licenses and therefore can obtain an IDP.

What if I do not have a passport-style photo?

You can get one taken at CVS, Walgreens, Costco, or a local photography studio. The photo must be 2 inches by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly. It costs $10 to $15 and takes about 10 minutes.

Can I use my IDP to drive in any country?

An IDP is recognized in most countries that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 Geneva Conventions on Road Signs and Signals. However, some countries have additional requirements or do not recognize it. Check the specific country's requirements before you travel.

What is the difference between an IDP and an international driver's license?

An International Driving Permit is the official document recognized by most countries. An "international driver's license" is not a real government document — it is a term used by private companies to sell you something you do not need. Obtain only the official IDP from AAA or your state.