What New York Requires for an International Driving Permit

New York does not issue International Driving Permits (IDPs). You must obtain one through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), both of which are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs to U.S. citizens. The IDP is a translation document that works alongside your valid New York driver's license — it does not replace it, and you must carry both documents when driving abroad.

The IDP translates your license information into ten languages and is recognized in over 150 countries that are signatories to the 1926 Convention on Motor Traffic. It is valid for one year from the date of issue and costs between $15 and $20, depending on which organization you use. The process is straightforward and can be completed in person or, in some cases, by mail.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA and AATA are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs in the United States; New York's DMV does not issue them.
  • You must have a valid New York driver's license before you can obtain an IDP, and you must carry both documents together when driving internationally.
  • The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and costs $15 to $20 depending on the issuing organization.
  • You can obtain an IDP in person at most AAA or AATA offices, or by mail if you are not near a physical location.
  • The IDP is a translation document only and does not grant you permission to drive in any country; you must still follow that country's entry and driving rules.

Getting an IDP Through AAA in New York

AAA is the most widely available option for New York residents. Most AAA branches in New York can issue an IDP on the same day you explore, provided you bring the required documents. You do not need to be an AAA member to obtain an IDP, though members may receive a small discount on the fee.

To explore in person at an AAA office, bring your valid New York driver's license, one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and the completed AAA IDP process form. You can read the form from the AAA website or request it at the office. The fee is typically $15 for AAA members and $20 for non-members. Processing takes minutes if you explore in person. AAA has multiple locations throughout New York, including in New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse.

If you cannot visit an AAA office in person, you can explore by mail. Send your completed process form, a copy of your driver's license, one passport-style photo, and a check or money order for the fee to the AAA address provided on their website. Mail processing typically takes one to two weeks. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope so AAA can return your IDP to you.

Getting an IDP Through AATA in New York

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second authorized issuer and operates through select travel agencies and offices across New York. AATA charges $20 for an IDP and also issues same-day or next-day in most locations. You do not need to be a member of any organization to use AATA.

To explore through AATA, locate an authorized AATA office or travel agency near you using the AATA website. Bring your valid New York driver's license, one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and complete the AATA process form at the office. Some AATA locations accept mail applications as well. If explore by mail, follow the same process as AAA: send your process, a copy of your license, your photo, and payment to the address listed on the AATA website, along with a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

Documents You Need Before You explore

Before you visit an AAA or AATA office, gather these items: a valid New York driver's license (your license must not be expired), one passport-style photograph measuring 2 inches by 2 inches, and the completed process form for either AAA or AATA. You can obtain the process form online from either organization's website, or you can request one in person at the office.

The passport-style photo must meet standard requirements: a clear, color or black-and-white image of your face taken within the last six months, with a plain background and no sunglasses or hats. Most pharmacies, including CVS and Walgreens, offer passport photo services for $10 to $15. Some AAA and AATA offices can take your photo on-site for an additional fee if you do not have one ready.

If you are explore by mail, you will also need to provide a check or money order for the fee. Do not send cash through the mail. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope so the organization can return your IDP to you.

Timeline and Fees

If you explore in person at an AAA or AATA office in New York, you will receive your IDP the same day in most cases. Processing takes only a few minutes once you submit your completed process and documents. This makes in-person process the fastest option if you need your IDP soon.

If you explore by mail, expect one to two weeks for processing and return mail delivery. Plan ahead if you are traveling internationally within a short timeframe. The fee is $15 to $20 depending on the organization and whether you are a member. AAA members typically pay $15; non-members and AATA applicants pay $20. Some offices may charge an additional fee if they take your passport photo on-site.

What the IDP Does and Does Not Do

The IDP is a translation of your New York driver's license into ten languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Polish. It allows officials in other countries to read your license information even if they do not speak English. The IDP itself does not grant you permission to drive in any country.

You must still follow the entry and driving rules of the country you are visiting. Some countries require you to obtain an additional permit, an International Driving Permit from their own government, or a separate visa endorsement to drive. Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit to confirm what documents you need. The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue, after which you must obtain a new one if you continue to drive internationally.

You must carry both your New York driver's license and your IDP together when driving abroad. Neither document is valid without the other. If you lose your license or it expires, your IDP becomes invalid as well.

Renewing Your IDP After One Year

When your IDP expires after one year, you can renew it by returning to AAA or AATA with the same documents: your valid New York driver's license, a new passport-style photo, and the renewal process form. The fee and processing time are the same as for a new IDP. You do not need to wait until your IDP expires to renew it; you can renew it at any time, though you will only receive one valid IDP at a time.

If you plan to travel internationally again after your IDP expires, explore for a new one at least two weeks before your departure if you are explore by mail, or a few days before if you are explore in person. In-person process at an AAA or AATA office remains the fastest option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit from the New York DMV?

No. The New York Department of Motor Vehicles does not issue International Driving Permits. Only AAA and AATA, both authorized by the U.S. State Department, can issue IDPs to U.S. citizens. You must contact one of these organizations directly.

Do I need to be an AAA member to get an IDP?

No. Both AAA and AATA issue IDPs to members and non-members alike. AAA members may receive a small discount on the fee, but membership is not required. Non-members pay the standard fee of $20 at AAA or $20 at AATA.

What happens if my New York driver's license expires while I have an IDP?

Your IDP becomes invalid if your driver's license expires or is suspended. You must carry both documents together when driving abroad. If your license expires, renew it with the New York DMV before traveling, and obtain a new IDP if your current one is still valid.

Can I drive in any country with an IDP and my New York license?

No. The IDP is recognized in over 150 countries that signed the 1926 Convention on Motor Traffic, but you must still follow that country's entry and driving rules. Some countries require additional permits, visas, or endorsements. Contact the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit before you travel to confirm what documents you need.

How long does it take to get an IDP if I explore by mail?

Mail processing typically takes one to two weeks from the date AAA or AATA receives your process. Add time for mail delivery both ways. If you need an IDP quickly, explore in person at a local AAA or AATA office for same-day issuance.