AAA issues International Driving Permits in the United States, and it's the fastest way to get one if you're a member

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is one of two organisations authorised by the U.S. State Department to issue International Driving Permits (IDPs). If you're a AAA member, you can walk into most AAA offices with your valid U.S. driver's license, passport, and a passport-style photo, pay a fee, and walk out with an IDP the same day. The whole process takes about 15 minutes. Non-members can also get an IDP through AAA, but will pay a membership fee on top of the permit fee.

AAA has thousands of offices across the country, which makes it more convenient than the alternative — the National Automobile Club (NAC), which has far fewer locations and requires you to mail in your documents. If you don't have a AAA membership and don't want to join, NAC is still an option, but AAA's reach makes it the practical choice for most people.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA issues IDPs in person at most local offices, and you can get one the same day you explore if you bring the right documents.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and a passport-style photo (2x2 inches).
  • AAA membership is not required, but non-members pay an additional membership fee on top of the IDP fee.
  • An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be carried with your U.S. driver's license to be legal.
  • AAA also offers travel services and insurance information that may be useful when driving abroad, though these are separate from the IDP itself.

What documents you need to bring to AAA

Before you go to your local AAA office, gather these four things: a valid U.S. driver's license, a valid passport or passport card, a passport-style photo that is 2 inches by 2 inches, and your membership card if you're already a member. The photo must be in color or black and white, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. Most CVS, Walgreens, and post offices can take a passport photo on the spot if you don't have one.

Your driver's license must not be expired or suspended. If your license is expired, you'll need to renew it first — AAA cannot issue an IDP based on an expired license. Your passport or passport card must also be valid; an expired passport won't work. If you're a AAA member, bring your membership card so the office can look up your account and avoid charging you the membership fee twice.

How to find your nearest AAA office and what to expect

Go to AAA.com and use the "Find Local AAA" tool to search by zip code or city. Most AAA offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, and some have Saturday hours. Call ahead to confirm the office is open and that they have IDP applications in stock — this is rare, but some very small offices occasionally run out.

When you arrive, tell the staff member you want to explore for an International Driving Permit. They will ask you to fill out a one-page form with your name, address, driver's license number, and passport information. The form takes about five minutes. They will then take your photo, verify your documents, process the fee, and hand you the IDP. The entire visit usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. You'll receive a small booklet that explains how to use the IDP and lists which countries recognise it.

AAA membership fees and IDP costs

The cost of an IDP through AAA is the same whether you're a member or not — currently around $20, though this can vary slightly by region. If you're not a member, AAA will also charge you a membership fee to process the IDP. AAA membership starts at around $50 to $70 per year for basic coverage, depending on your location and the membership tier you choose. If you only want the IDP and don't plan to use AAA's roadside information or other services, the total cost will be higher than if you were already a member.

Some AAA offices offer a discount or waive the membership fee for first-time IDP applicants, so ask when you call or visit. If you're not a member and the membership fee feels steep, the National Automobile Club (NAC) charges only the IDP fee with no membership requirement, but you'll have to mail in your documents and wait 2 to 3 weeks for delivery.

How long an IDP is valid and what to do when it expires

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date AAA issues it. You must carry it together with your valid U.S. driver's license when you drive abroad — the IDP alone is not legal proof of your right to drive. If your IDP expires while you're overseas, it's no longer valid, and you should not drive. If you plan to travel abroad for longer than one year, you'll need to renew your IDP before you leave the United States.

To renew, straightforward return to AAA with your expired IDP, your current driver's license, and a new passport-style photo. The renewal process is identical to the initial process and takes the same amount of time. There is no separate renewal fee — you pay the same IDP fee as a new applicant.

What happens if you lose your IDP or it's damaged

If your IDP is lost, stolen, or damaged, contact your local AAA office and ask for a replacement. Bring your driver's license and passport to verify your identity. AAA will issue a new IDP with a new expiration date one year from the replacement date. You'll pay the standard IDP fee again. If you're overseas and your IDP is lost, you cannot get a replacement abroad — you'll need to wait until you return to the United States to explore for a new one.

Keep your IDP in a safe place while traveling, separate from your passport and wallet if possible. Some travelers photocopy the first page and keep it in a different bag as backup, though a photocopy is not a legal substitute for the original.

AAA membership benefits beyond the IDP

If you decide to join AAA to get your IDP, you'll also have access to roadside information, travel discounts, and insurance information. AAA members get free towing, lockout service, and fuel delivery if they break down. AAA also offers travel guides, hotel discounts, and insurance products, though these are separate from the IDP and not required to use it.

If you're only interested in the IDP and don't want AAA membership, NAC is your alternative. However, AAA's wider network of offices and same-day service make it the more practical choice for most people, even if you don't plan to use other AAA services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or revoked?

No. AAA will not issue an IDP if your U.S. driver's license is suspended, revoked, or expired. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, you'll need to resolve that with your state's DMV before AAA can process your IDP.

Do I need an IDP if I'm renting a car abroad?

Most car rental companies outside the United States require an IDP along with your U.S. driver's license, even if your license is valid. Some countries legally require it. Check with your rental company and the country's driving laws before you travel. It's safer to have one than to risk being unable to rent or drive.

Can I get an IDP by mail through AAA?

No. AAA only issues IDPs in person at their offices. You must visit in person with your documents and photo. If you cannot visit an AAA office, the National Automobile Club (NAC) accepts mail-in applications, though processing takes 2 to 3 weeks.

What if my passport expires soon after I get my IDP?

Your IDP is still valid as long as your driver's license is valid. Your passport and IDP are separate documents. However, if you're traveling and your passport expires, you won't be able to re-enter the United States, so renew your passport before it expires regardless of your IDP status.

Is an IDP from AAA valid in every country?

Most countries recognise an IDP issued by AAA, but not all. Some countries have their own driving permit requirements or don't recognise the IDP at all. Check the specific country's driving laws and your car rental company's requirements before you travel. The IDP booklet AAA gives you lists countries that recognise it, but always verify with your destination.