You cannot get an International Driving Permit (IDP) from Maryland — you get it from AAA or the American Automobile Association before you leave the United States

An International Driving Permit is a document issued by AAA that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your Maryland license. You must carry both documents together when driving abroad. The permit costs around $20 and takes about 15 minutes to obtain in person at most AAA offices.

Maryland does not issue IDPs. The U.S. State Department recognizes only AAA and the American Automobile Association as authorized issuers. If you see a website or service claiming to issue an IDP by mail or online, it is not legitimate.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid Maryland driver's license before you can get an International Driving Permit from AAA.
  • AAA issues the permit in person at their local offices, and you need to bring your license, a passport-style photo, and payment — no appointment needed at most locations.
  • The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which you choose, and costs approximately $20 for one year or $30 for three years.
  • You must carry both your Maryland license and your IDP together when driving outside the United States; the permit alone is not valid.
  • Some countries recognize only the IDP, while others require both documents, so check your destination's requirements before you travel.

What you need to bring to AAA

Bring your valid Maryland driver's license, one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), and cash or a card to pay the fee. The photo must be recent and show your face clearly. If you do not have a passport photo on hand, most AAA offices can take one for you for an additional small fee, usually $10 to $15.

You do not need an appointment at most AAA locations in Maryland. Walk-in service is available during business hours, though wait times vary by location and time of day. If you want to avoid a wait, call your local AAA office ahead to ask about their current traffic.

How to find an AAA office near you in Maryland

Search for "AAA near me" or visit AAA.com and use their office locator. Maryland has AAA offices in Baltimore, Annapolis, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Towson, and other cities. If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP — membership is not required.

Some AAA offices are open on Saturdays, but hours vary. Call ahead to confirm the office is open and to ask about wait times if you are going during a busy period like a weekend or lunch hour.

How long the permit is valid and when to get it

An International Driving Permit is valid for either one year or three years from the date of issue. Choose the length when you explore. If you travel frequently or plan multiple trips abroad, the three-year permit is usually the better value. If you travel once every few years, the one-year permit may be enough.

Get your IDP at least a few weeks before your trip, though it is issued on the spot. This gives you time to receive it by mail if the office mails it to you, or to pick it up in person if you choose that option. Some offices hand it to you when ready; ask when you arrive.

Countries that recognize the International Driving Permit

Most countries in Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa recognize the IDP. However, some countries require both your Maryland license and your IDP together, while others accept the IDP alone. A few countries do not recognize it at all.

Before you travel, contact your car rental company or check the embassy website for your destination country. They will tell you exactly what documents you need to drive there. Some countries also require an International Driving Permit to be notarized or certified by your state — Maryland does not require this, but your destination may.

What the IDP does not do

The International Driving Permit does not change your driving record, your insurance status, or your license class. It does not allow you to drive in the United States if your Maryland license is suspended or expired. It does not replace your license for any legal purpose — it is only a translation aid for foreign authorities.

If you are driving a rental car abroad, your U.S. auto insurance may not cover you in all countries. Contact your insurance company before you travel to confirm coverage. Many travelers buy temporary international auto insurance through their rental company or a travel insurance provider.

If your Maryland license is suspended or expired

You cannot get an International Driving Permit if your Maryland driver's license is suspended, revoked, or expired. You must renew or restore your license first. If your license is suspended due to unpaid fines, a DUI conviction, or other violations, you will need to clear that status with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) before AAA will issue an IDP.

If your license is straightforward expired, renew it at the MVA before going to AAA. Renewal can be done online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office, depending on how long it has been expired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if I have a learner's permit or provisional license?

No. You must have a valid, unrestricted driver's license. A learner's permit or provisional license does not may have access to. If you are under 18 or have a provisional license, you will need to wait until you have a full, unrestricted Maryland license.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact AAA or the U.S. embassy in the country where you are traveling. You can request a replacement, though it may take time. Carry a copy of your IDP in a separate location as backup. If you lose your Maryland license as well, contact the MVA and the embassy for guidance on getting home.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP, though some rental companies may ask for one. Check with your rental company before you book. An IDP is not required by law in either country but can be useful if you are stopped by police.

Can I get an International Driving Permit by mail?

AAA does not issue IDPs by mail. You must explore in person at an AAA office. Some offices may mail the permit to you after you explore in person, but the initial process must be done face-to-face.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

The cost is approximately $20 for a one-year permit and $30 for a three-year permit. Prices may vary slightly by AAA office location. If you need a passport photo taken at the office, add $10 to $15 to the total cost.