You get an International Driving Permit from a AAA office or a passport acceptance facility in your state

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together when driving abroad. The IDP itself is issued only by two organizations in the United States: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Most people obtain one through AAA because AAA has offices in all 50 states and the U.S. territories.

You cannot get an IDP from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, from the federal government, or from any online service. The process is straightforward: you visit an AAA office in person with your valid driver's license and a passport-style photo, pay the fee, and receive the permit on the spot or within a few days depending on the office's processing method.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA is the primary source for International Driving Permits in the United States and has offices in every state.
  • You must bring a valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and payment in cash or card to an AAA office.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request.
  • You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver's license from your state to obtain an IDP.
  • Some passport acceptance facilities can issue IDPs, but AAA remains the fastest and most widely available option.

Finding an AAA Office Near You

AAA operates local clubs in every state, and each club has one or more office locations where you can request an IDP. To find the nearest office, visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool by entering your zip code. You can also call AAA's main number and ask for the office closest to you, or search "AAA near me" in a map process.

Not all AAA offices issue IDPs on the same day. Some locations process the permit while you wait (usually 15 to 30 minutes), while others may require you to return in a few days. When you call or visit to locate an office, ask whether they issue IDPs same-day or if you need to schedule a return visit. Walk-in service is typically available, but calling ahead ensures the office has the materials and staff available when you arrive.

Documents and Photos You Need to Bring

Bring three things to your AAA office visit: your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-style photograph (2x2 inches), and payment. The photo must meet U.S. passport standards — a plain background, your face clearly visible, taken within the last six months. You cannot use a photo from your driver's license or a digital photo printed at home; it must be a professional or semi-professional passport photo.

If you do not have a passport photo, most AAA offices can take one for you on-site for an additional fee (usually $10 to $15). This adds time to your visit but eliminates the need to visit a photo studio separately. Your driver's license must be valid and not expired; an expired license will disqualify you from obtaining an IDP.

Cost and Validity Period

An International Driving Permit costs between $15 and $20 at AAA, depending on your state and the AAA club issuing it. The fee covers the permit itself and the processing. You can choose between a one-year permit or a three-year permit; the three-year version costs slightly more but is the better value if you plan to travel internationally more than once during that period.

The IDP is valid only while your U.S. driver's license remains valid. If your state license expires before your IDP expires, the IDP becomes invalid. If you renew your state license, you must obtain a new IDP as well; the old one cannot be transferred or updated. AAA does not issue refunds for unused or expired permits.

Alternative: Passport Acceptance Facilities

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second organization authorized to issue IDPs in the United States. AATA works through passport acceptance facilities — typically post offices, libraries, and county clerk offices — in select locations. Not all passport facilities issue IDPs, so you must call ahead or check the AATA website to confirm whether the facility near you offers this service.

The process at a passport facility is similar to AAA: bring your valid driver's license, a passport-style photo, and payment. Processing time may be longer than at AAA because passport facilities handle many services. If you cannot reach an AAA office or prefer to combine your IDP request with passport services, a passport acceptance facility may be an option, but availability varies significantly by location.

What Happens at Your AAA Visit

When you arrive at an AAA office, tell the staff member you need an International Driving Permit. They will ask you to complete a short form with your name, address, date of birth, and driver's license number. You will provide your photo and your driver's license for verification. The staff member will confirm your information, collect payment, and either issue the permit when ready or give you a receipt and a date to return.

If the office processes same-day, you will receive a booklet-style document with your name, photo, and license information printed in English and ten other languages. The permit is small enough to fit in a wallet or passport holder. Keep it with your driver's license at all times when driving in a foreign country. Some countries require the IDP; others accept it as a courtesy. Check the specific country's requirements before you travel.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not assume your state DMV can issue an IDP — they cannot. Do not bring an expired driver's license; the IDP cannot be issued without a valid license. Do not use a driver's license photo or a casual snapshot as your passport photo; AAA will reject it and you will need to return with a proper photo. Do not wait until the day before your trip to request an IDP; if the office does not process same-day, you may not receive it in time.

Do not confuse an IDP with a foreign driver's license. An IDP is not a license and does not give you the right to drive in another country if you are not licensed to drive in the United States. Some countries require both your U.S. license and an IDP; others require an IDP plus a visa or permit specific to that country. Research your destination's requirements before you travel, as the IDP alone is not sufficient in all places.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is suspended or revoked?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot obtain an IDP. Once your license is reinstated or renewed, you can then request an IDP.

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

Requirements vary by rental company and country. Many rental agencies in Canada and Mexico accept a U.S. driver's license alone, but some require an IDP as well. Check with your rental company before you travel. An IDP does not hurt and may prevent delays at the rental counter.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?

Most AAA offices issue the IDP the same day you visit, usually within 15 to 30 minutes. Some offices may require a return visit a few days later. Call your local AAA office to confirm their processing time before you go.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide guidance on how to proceed. You can also contact AAA by phone to report the loss. When you return to the United States, you can request a replacement IDP from AAA for the standard fee.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document only. An international license is issued by some countries and serves as a separate driving credential. The United States does not issue international licenses — only IDPs. Other countries' licenses are not valid in the U.S. unless you are a temporary resident with a valid visa.