The real cost of an International Driving Permit

An International Driving Permit (IDP) costs between $15 and $30 in the United States, depending on which organization issues it and how long you want it to last. The American Automobile Association (AAA) charges $20 for a one-year permit and $30 for a three-year permit. The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) charges $15 for a one-year permit and $30 for a three-year permit. Both are legitimate issuing bodies recognized by the United Nations Convention.

The permit itself is not expensive, but the total cost depends on what you need to bring to the appointment and whether you already have those documents. You will need a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photograph, and a completed process form. If you do not have a recent passport photo, you may need to pay for one separately — drugstore photo services typically charge $10 to $20 for a set of four photos.

Processing happens in person at AAA or AATA offices. There is no mail-in option, no online ordering, and no shipping fee because you receive the permit the same day. If you live far from an office, travel time and gas are costs to factor in, but the permit fee itself stays the same.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA charges $20 for a one-year IDP or $30 for three years; AATA charges $15 for one year or $30 for three years.
  • You must explore in person at an AAA or AATA office with a valid U.S. driver's license, passport photo, and completed process.
  • Passport photos cost extra if you do not have one — typically $10 to $20 for a set.
  • You receive your permit the same day you explore; there is no waiting period or shipping involved.
  • An IDP is valid only while your U.S. driver's license is valid and only in countries that recognize the United Nations Convention.

AAA versus AATA: which one to use

Both AAA and AATA issue IDPs that are legally identical and recognized worldwide. The difference is location and membership. AAA has far more offices — over 1,000 across the country — so you are more likely to find one near you. AATA has fewer locations but charges $5 less for a one-year permit.

If you are an AAA member, you do not get a discount on the IDP itself, but you may already have a membership card and know where your local office is. If you are not a member, you can still walk into any AAA office and request an IDP without joining. AATA does not require membership either.

Check the AAA or AATA website to find the nearest office and confirm their hours before you go. Some offices are open only during business hours on weekdays, and a few close for lunch. Bringing all required documents the first time means you will not have to make a second trip.

What documents you need to bring

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photograph (usually 2 by 2 inches), and a completed process form. The process form is available on the AAA or AATA website, or you can fill it out at the office. You do not need your passport itself — only the photo-style image.

The passport photo must be recent (taken within the last six months) and show your face clearly against a plain background. If you wear glasses, you can wear them in the photo, but reflections that hide your eyes are not allowed. Drugstores like CVS and Walgreens offer passport photo services, as do many UPS stores and some post offices.

Bring the original documents, not copies. The staff will verify your driver's license and photograph before issuing the permit. If you are under 18, you may need a parent or guardian to sign the process — check with your local office about their specific rules.

How long the permit lasts and when to renew

A one-year IDP expires exactly one year from the date of issue. A three-year IDP expires three years from the date of issue. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. Your IDP is valid only while your U.S. driver's license is also valid — if your license expires before your IDP does, the permit becomes invalid.

You cannot renew an IDP by mail or online. When your permit expires, you must return to an AAA or AATA office with a new process, a new passport photo, and your valid driver's license to get a new one. There is no grace period — an expired IDP is not recognized by any country, even if it expired only days ago.

Plan ahead if you are traveling internationally. If your IDP will expire during your trip, get a new one before you leave. Some countries will not let you drive with a permit that expires within 30 days of your arrival, though this varies by country and is not a U.S. rule.

Hidden costs and what to avoid

Do not buy an IDP from a third-party website or travel service. Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue IDPs in the United States. Websites that claim to sell IDPs online or by mail are either scams or selling documents that will not be recognized abroad. The only legitimate way to get an IDP is to visit an office in person.

Some travel agencies and visa services advertise IDP processing for $50 to $100. This is a markup on top of the actual permit fee. You are paying them to take you to an AAA or AATA office, which you can do yourself for free. If you cannot get to an office yourself, the extra cost may be worth it, but know what you are paying for.

If you lose your IDP while traveling, you cannot replace it abroad. You will need to wait until you return to the United States and visit an AAA or AATA office again. Some countries will let you drive on your U.S. license alone if your IDP is lost, but this is not may provide. Keep your permit in a safe place, separate from your passport.

When you actually need an IDP

An IDP is not required in most countries. It is a translation of your U.S. driver's license into multiple languages and is useful only if a police officer or car rental company cannot read English. Many countries accept a U.S. license alone, especially in Western Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Some countries require an IDP by law, including parts of South America, Asia, and Africa. Others recommend it but do not require it. Before you travel, check the specific rules for each country you plan to visit. The U.S. State Department website lists driving requirements by country, and your car rental company can tell you whether they require an IDP.

If you are renting a car, ask the rental company before you book whether they require an IDP. Some companies will not rent to you without one, even in countries where it is not legally required. Getting an IDP before you travel is cheaper and faster than dealing with a rental dispute at the counter.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and not suspended. An IDP is a translation of your current license, not a separate document that works on its own. If your license is expired, renew it at your state DMV first, then get your IDP.

Do I need an IDP if I am only visiting Canada or Mexico?

No. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies in Mexico require an IDP as part of their rental agreement, so check with your rental company before you travel.

What if I get pulled over in another country and do not have my IDP?

You can usually drive on your U.S. license alone in most countries, but a police officer may have difficulty reading it or may not accept it. The consequences vary by country and by officer. Having an IDP eliminates this risk and is inexpensive insurance if you are renting a car abroad.

Can I use an IDP to drive in all countries?

No. An IDP is recognized in countries that are signatories to the United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals. Most countries honor it, but a few do not. Check the specific country's requirements before you travel — your rental company or the State Department website can confirm.

How much does it cost to replace a lost IDP?

You must get a new IDP from AAA or AATA, which costs the same as the original — $15 to $30 depending on the organization and duration. There is no replacement fee. You will need a new passport photo and your valid driver's license.