New Jersey does not issue International Driving Permits — you must obtain one from AAA or the American Automobile Association before you travel

New Jersey's Motor Vehicle Commission does not produce International Driving Permits (IDPs). Instead, you obtain an IDP through the American Automobile Association (AAA), which is the sole authorized issuer in the United States. The IDP is a separate document from your New Jersey driver's license; it translates your license information into ten languages and is recognized in over 150 countries. You do not need an IDP to drive in all countries — some nations accept a valid U.S. driver's license alone — but many require one, and some car rental companies will not rent to you without it.

The process is straightforward: you visit a AAA office in person, bring your valid New Jersey driver's license and a passport-style photo, pay the fee, and walk out with your IDP the same day. The entire transaction takes about 15 minutes. Your IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be carried alongside your actual driver's license when you drive abroad.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA is the only authorized issuer of International Driving Permits in the United States, including for New Jersey residents.
  • You must bring your valid New Jersey driver's license, one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and payment to a AAA office in person.
  • An IDP is issued on the same day and is valid for one year; you must carry it with your actual license when driving outside the United States.
  • The fee varies depending on whether you are a AAA member, but non-members can purchase an IDP without joining AAA.
  • Some countries do not require an IDP and will accept your U.S. license alone, so check your destination's requirements before purchasing.

What documents you need to bring to AAA

Bring your valid New Jersey driver's license — it must not be expired. AAA will not issue an IDP based on an expired license, even if you have a renewal process pending. If your license is expired, renew it at the Motor Vehicle Commission first.

You also need one passport-style photograph, 2 inches by 2 inches. This is the same size used for U.S. passports. You can have photos taken at most AAA offices for a small fee, or bring one you already have. The photo must show your face clearly, taken against a plain background, and taken within the last six months.

Bring a form of payment — AAA accepts cash, debit, and credit cards. The fee for non-members is typically $20 to $30, depending on the office. AAA members pay a lower rate, usually around $15 to $20. Call your local AAA office to confirm the exact fee before you visit.

Where to find a AAA office in New Jersey

AAA has multiple offices throughout New Jersey. You can locate the nearest one by visiting the AAA website and using their office locator tool, or by calling AAA's main customer service line. Most AAA offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, with some locations open on Saturday mornings. Hours vary by location, so call ahead to confirm.

You do not need an appointment at most AAA offices — you can walk in during business hours. However, some high-traffic locations may ask you to schedule a time slot, especially during peak travel seasons (spring and summer). If you call ahead, the staff can tell you whether an appointment is needed and how long the wait typically is.

If you are not a AAA member and want to join before purchasing your IDP, you can do so at the same visit. AAA membership includes roadside information, travel discounts, and other benefits, though membership is not required to obtain an IDP.

The step-by-step process at the AAA office

Step 1: Arrive with your documents. Bring your valid New Jersey driver's license, passport-style photo, and payment method. Have your license and photo ready to hand to the staff member.

Step 2: Complete the IDP process form. AAA will give you a short form to fill out. It asks for your name, address, date of birth, and driver's license number. This takes about two minutes. You do not need to bring a pre-filled form.

Step 3: Provide your photo and license information. Hand your photo and license to the staff member. They will verify that your license is valid and matches the information on your form.

Step 4: Pay the fee. Pay the IDP fee at the counter. Confirm the amount before you hand over payment.

Step 5: Receive your IDP. The staff member will print your IDP on the spot. You will receive a booklet-style document that contains your translated license information in ten languages. This is your completed IDP. You can leave with it when ready.

How long your IDP is valid and when to renew

Your IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. The expiration date is printed on the front of the booklet. You must carry it alongside your actual New Jersey driver's license when you drive in any country that requires it.

If your IDP expires while you are abroad, it is no longer valid. If you plan to travel again within a year, obtain a new IDP before your trip. The process is identical to the first time: visit AAA with your current license, photo, and payment.

If your New Jersey driver's license expires or is suspended before your IDP expires, your IDP becomes invalid. You cannot use an IDP with an expired or invalid license. Renew your license at the Motor Vehicle Commission before your next international trip.

Countries that require an IDP versus those that accept a U.S. license alone

Not every country requires an International Driving Permit. Many European nations, Canada, and Australia accept a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some countries — including parts of South America, Asia, and Africa — require an IDP by law. Some countries do not strictly require one but strongly recommend it because police may not recognize a U.S. license without it.

Car rental companies often have their own rules that differ from the country's law. Many major rental agencies worldwide will not rent to you without an IDP, even if the country itself does not require one. Before you book a rental car, check the rental company's policy. Before you travel, also check the government travel advisory for your destination country, which will list driving requirements.

The safest approach is to obtain an IDP if you plan to drive abroad, regardless of whether your specific destination requires it. The cost is low, the process is quick, and it eliminates uncertainty at a rental counter or a police stop.

What to do if your New Jersey license is expired or suspended

You cannot obtain an IDP with an expired or suspended New Jersey driver's license. If your license has expired, you must renew it at a Motor Vehicle Commission office before visiting AAA. Renewals can be done online, by mail, or in person, depending on your license type and how long it has been expired. Check the MVC website for the renewal method that applies to you.

If your license is suspended, you cannot drive legally in New Jersey or abroad, and AAA will not issue an IDP. You must resolve the suspension with the Motor Vehicle Commission first. This may involve paying a fine, completing a defensive driving course, or meeting other requirements depending on why the suspension was issued.

Plan ahead: if your license is close to expiring and you have an international trip scheduled, renew your license before your trip so you have time to obtain your IDP.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit by mail or online?

No. AAA requires you to visit an office in person, bring your original license and photo, and complete the transaction face-to-face. There is no mail-in or online option for obtaining an IDP in the United States.

Do I need to be a AAA member to get an International Driving Permit?

No. Non-members can purchase an IDP at any AAA office. The fee is slightly higher for non-members than for members, but membership is not required. You can join AAA at the same visit if you wish.

What if I don't have a passport-style photo?

Most AAA offices can take a passport-style photo for you on the spot for a small fee, usually $5 to $10. You do not need to bring one if you are willing to pay for it to be taken at the office.

Is my IDP valid if my New Jersey driver's license expires?

No. Your IDP is only valid when paired with a valid, unexpired New Jersey driver's license. If your license expires, your IDP becomes invalid, even if the IDP itself has not yet expired. You must renew your license and obtain a new IDP before your next trip.

Can I use my IDP to drive in all countries?

An IDP is recognized in over 150 countries, but not all countries accept it. Some nations do not recognize IDPs at all. Before you travel, check the specific requirements for your destination country. Your car rental company can also tell you whether an IDP is needed for your booking.