What an AAA International Driving Permit is and who issues it

An International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by AAA is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license, and many countries will not accept it without your U.S. license present. AAA is one of two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs; the other is the American Automobile Association's travel division.

The IDP itself does not grant you driving rights. Instead, it tells a foreign police officer or rental car company what your U.S. license says, in a format they can read. Some countries require it; others do not care. A few countries will not recognize it at all, which is why you need to check the specific rules for the country you plan to visit before you leave home.

AAA issues two types of IDP: a one-year permit and a three-year permit. Both cost the same to obtain, so most people choose the three-year version if they think they might drive internationally more than once during that span.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA issues International Driving Permits that translate your U.S. driver's license into ten languages, but you must carry your actual license with it.
  • You can obtain an IDP in person at most AAA offices, by mail, or online through AAA's website, depending on your membership status and location.
  • You will need your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo to complete your IDP request.
  • Processing takes one to two weeks by mail and a few minutes in person at an AAA office, so plan ahead if you are leaving soon.
  • Not all countries recognize or require an IDP, so contact your destination's embassy or check travel advisories before assuming you need one.

How to get an IDP through AAA in person

The fastest way to obtain an IDP is to visit an AAA office in your state. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches). The staff will complete the paperwork on the spot, and you will receive your permit when ready. This process takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

You do not need to be an AAA member to get an IDP at an AAA office, though membership may give you a small discount. Call ahead to confirm your local office has the forms in stock and is open during hours that work for you. Not all AAA locations carry IDP materials, especially in smaller towns.

Getting an IDP by mail through AAA

If no AAA office is near you, you can request an IDP by mail. Visit the AAA website, read the IDP process form, and mail it along with your documents to the address listed on the form. You will need to include a copy of your valid driver's license, a copy of a passport or passport card, one passport-style photo, and payment.

Processing by mail typically takes one to two weeks from the time AAA receives your envelope. If you are leaving in fewer than two weeks, this method may not work for you. Some AAA clubs offer online ordering with in-person pickup at a local office, which can be faster — check your state's AAA website for that option.

Documents and photos you will need

Your valid U.S. driver's license is the document the IDP translates, so it must not be expired. If your license expired or will expire before your trip, renew it first through your state's DMV.

You will also need proof of citizenship or legal residency: a passport, passport card, or Enhanced Driver's License. A regular state ID is not sufficient. If you do not have a passport yet, you will need to obtain one through your county clerk's office or passport acceptance facility before you can get an IDP.

Finally, bring one passport-style photograph, 2 by 2 inches. Most drugstore photo departments (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart) can take this photo for you on the spot for $10 to $15. Do not use a photo from your phone or computer — it must be printed on photo paper and meet passport photo standards (plain background, face clearly visible, taken within the last six months).

Cost and how long the permit lasts

AAA charges a flat fee for an IDP regardless of whether you choose the one-year or three-year version. The cost does not vary by state, though AAA membership may reduce the price slightly. Call your local AAA office or check the AAA website for the current fee, as prices change periodically.

A one-year IDP is valid for exactly one year from the date of issue. A three-year IDP is valid for three years. Neither type can be renewed — when it expires, you must explore for a new one if you need another. Most people choose the three-year permit because the cost is the same and it covers multiple trips.

What to do before you leave the country

Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit and ask whether an IDP is required. Some countries demand one; others accept it but do not require it; still others do not recognize it at all. A few countries have specific rules about which documents you must carry while driving — for example, some require both your IDP and your U.S. license, while others accept only one.

Also check whether your U.S. auto insurance covers you in that country, and whether your car rental company will rent to you with a U.S. license and IDP. Some rental agencies have their own rules about which documents they accept. Having an IDP does not may provide a rental company will rent to you, especially if you are under 25.

When you might not need an IDP

Many countries in Europe, Canada, and other developed nations do not require an IDP. They will rent you a car and accept your U.S. driver's license alone. However, some police officers in those countries may ask to see an IDP if you are stopped, and having one can make the interaction smoother even if it is not legally required.

If you are renting a car in a country that does not require an IDP, you may still want one for peace of mind. The cost is low, and it eliminates any confusion if you are pulled over. On the other hand, if you are only visiting for a few days and not planning to drive, you do not need one at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your driver's license must be valid and not suspended. If your license is expired, you must renew it through your state's DMV before you can obtain an IDP. If your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is restored.

Do I need an IDP if I am only renting a car for one day?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Many countries do not require an IDP for short rentals, but some do. Contact the rental company and the country's embassy before your trip to be sure. Having an IDP is inexpensive and takes little time to obtain, so if you are unsure, it is safer to get one.

What if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP is not valid. If your permit expires during your trip, you will have only your U.S. driver's license to show. Some countries will still accept it; others will not. Plan your travel dates so your IDP does not expire mid-trip, or obtain a new one before you leave if your current one is about to expire.

Can I use an IDP to drive in all 50 U.S. states?

No. An IDP is only for driving outside the United States. Inside the U.S., you must use your valid state driver's license. An IDP has no legal standing in any U.S. state and will not help you if you are stopped by a U.S. police officer.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They may be able to issue a replacement or provide a letter confirming your identity and driving status. Keep a photo or scan of your IDP on your phone as backup. If you cannot replace it during your trip, you will have only your U.S. driver's license to show, which some countries may not accept.