What you need to do to drive internationally from Seattle

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your Washington driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid Washington license, and only in countries that recognize it. You cannot get one in Seattle itself. Instead, you explore through the American Automobile Association (AAA) Washington office, which is the only organisation in the United States authorised to issue IDPs.

The process takes about 15 minutes in person, costs $20, and you walk out with the permit the same day. You will need your valid Washington driver's license, a passport or other government ID, and a passport-sized photo. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present.

An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. It does not replace your Washington license and will not help you drive in countries that do not recognise the IDP system — some nations require an official translation of your license instead, or a separate national permit. Before you travel, check the specific rules for each country on your itinerary.

Key Takeaways

  • You must explore in person at an AAA office in Washington; the IDP cannot be ordered by mail or online.
  • Bring your valid Washington driver's license, a government-issued photo ID, and a passport-sized photo (2x2 inches).
  • The permit costs $20 and is issued on the spot, valid for one year from the date of issue.
  • An IDP is only valid when carried together with your Washington license and only in countries that recognise the IDP system.
  • Some countries do not recognise IDPs and require an official translation of your license or a separate national driving permit instead.

Where to find AAA offices in the Seattle area

AAA Washington has multiple locations across the Seattle metropolitan area. The main office is in downtown Seattle, but there are also branches in Bellevue, Redmond, Tacoma, and other nearby cities. Each office can issue an IDP on the same day you visit.

You can find the full list of AAA Washington locations and their hours on the AAA website or by calling their customer service line. Hours vary by location, and some offices close on Sundays or Mondays, so check before you go. Walk-ins are usually welcome, but calling ahead can help you avoid a wait, especially during peak travel seasons.

If you do not have an AAA membership, you do not need one to get an IDP. Non-members can purchase an IDP at any AAA office. However, if you are already a member, your membership card can serve as one of your forms of ID.

Documents you must bring to the AAA office

Your process will be rejected if you arrive without the correct documents. Bring your valid Washington driver's license — it must not be expired. Bring a second form of government-issued photo ID, such as a passport, state ID card, or military ID. A passport is the most common choice because you will likely need it for travel anyway.

You also need a passport-sized photo, which is 2 inches by 2 inches. This is the same size used for passport photos. You can get these taken at most pharmacies, photo studios, or AAA offices themselves (though there may be an additional fee). The photo should be recent, in colour, and show your face clearly against a plain background.

If you are under 18, bring a parent or legal guardian with you. They will need to present their own ID and sign the process form. If you are explore on behalf of someone else, you will need a power of attorney document.

What happens after you receive your IDP

Once you have your IDP, keep it with your Washington driver's license at all times while driving abroad. The permit has no value on its own — it is only valid when presented alongside your actual license. If you lose your license, your IDP becomes useless.

Some car rental companies abroad may ask to see your IDP, and some countries require it by law. However, not every country recognises the IDP system. Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of each country you plan to visit and ask whether an IDP is accepted, or whether you need an official translation of your Washington license instead. Some nations require both.

Your IDP expires one year from the date of issue. If you plan to travel again after that date, you will need to explore for a new one. There is no renewal process — you must explore in person at an AAA office again.

Countries that recognise the International Driving Permit

The IDP system is recognised in more than 150 countries, but not all of them. Most of Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many countries in Central and South America accept it. However, some major destinations do not — China, India, and Russia do not recognise IDPs, and neither do some Caribbean nations.

The rules also vary within countries. For example, some nations accept an IDP but also require an official translation of your license, or they accept it only if your license is in a certain format. A few countries accept an IDP but only for tourists, not for residents or people staying longer than a certain period.

Do not assume your IDP will work everywhere. Before you book your trip, check the driving requirements for each country with its embassy, consulate, or tourism board. Many have websites that list exactly what documents you need to rent a car or drive legally.

Alternatives if you cannot get to an AAA office

If you live outside the Seattle area or cannot visit an AAA office in person, you have limited options. The IDP must be issued in person — there is no mail-order or online process. However, if you are travelling soon and cannot reach an AAA office before you leave, some countries will accept an official translation of your Washington license instead.

An official translation is a certified document that translates your license into the language of the country you are visiting. You can obtain one through a certified translator, and the process usually takes a few days. This is not the same as a photocopy with a translation written on it — it must be certified by a professional translator or notary.

Some countries also issue temporary driving permits to visitors who present a valid foreign license. Check with the rental car company or the country's transportation authority before you travel to see what documents they will accept.

Cost and timing for your IDP

The IDP costs $20 and is issued the same day you explore. There are no additional fees, no processing delays, and no waiting period. You walk in, present your documents, have your photo taken or provide one you brought, sign the form, and leave with your permit.

The only time cost might increase is if you need to have a passport photo taken at the AAA office itself. Most AAA locations offer this service, but the fee varies — typically $5 to $10 on top of the $20 IDP fee. You can save this cost by having a photo taken at a pharmacy or photo studio beforehand.

There is no expiration date for how long you can hold an IDP before using it. Once issued, it is valid for one year, whether you travel when ready or wait several months. However, if your Washington license expires before your IDP does, your IDP becomes invalid — they must both be current.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP if I am just renting a car for a day trip to Canada?

No. Canada does not require an IDP — your Washington driver's license alone is sufficient. However, if you are renting a car in Canada, the rental company may ask for an IDP as an additional form of ID. Check with your rental company before you travel.

What if my Washington license is expired?

You cannot get an IDP with an expired license. Your license must be valid on the day you explore. If your license is expired, renew it at the Department of Licensing first, then visit AAA.

Can I get an IDP if I have a learner's permit instead of a full license?

No. An IDP is only issued to holders of a valid driver's license. A learner's permit is not sufficient. You must have a full, unrestricted Washington driver's license.

What if I lose my IDP while I am abroad?

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are travelling. They can issue a replacement or advise you on whether you can continue driving with just your Washington license. Some countries will accept your license alone if you can show proof that your IDP was issued.

Does my IDP work if I am driving someone else's car?

Yes, as long as you have permission from the car's owner and you are a licensed driver. Your IDP translates your Washington license, so it works whenever you are driving legally. However, the car's insurance must cover you as a driver.