What a Triple-A International Driving Permit Is and How It Works

A Triple-A International Driving Permit (also called an IDP or International Driving Document) is a translation of your valid U.S. driver's license issued by the American Automobile Association. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both documents together when driving abroad. The permit translates your license information into ten languages and is recognized in over 150 countries.

The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue (or until your U.S. license expires, whichever comes first). It serves as proof that you hold a valid U.S. license and are legally permitted to drive in your home country. Many rental car companies abroad require it, and some countries will not recognize your U.S. license without it, even though the IDP itself is not a driving authorization — it is a document that confirms one.

Triple-A issues the vast majority of IDPs in the United States. You can also obtain an IDP through the American Automobile Association of Automobile Clubs (AAA), but the Triple-A permit is the most widely recognized version and is what most international rental agencies and foreign authorities expect to see.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license before you can obtain a Triple-A International Driving Permit.
  • The permit costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one year from the date of issue or until your U.S. license expires.
  • You can explore in person at any AAA office, by mail, or online through the AAA website, depending on your state and membership status.
  • You need a passport-style photo (2x2 inches) and your valid U.S. driver's license to complete the process.
  • Processing takes one to two weeks by mail; in-person issuance is usually same-day or next-day at AAA offices.

Documents You Need Before You explore

Your valid U.S. driver's license is the only government document required. It must not be expired, suspended, or revoked. If your license is expired, you must renew it with your state DMV before explore for the IDP.

You will also need a passport-style photograph, 2 inches by 2 inches, with a white or off-white background. The photo must show your face clearly, taken within the last six months, and you must be facing the camera directly. Eyeglasses are permitted if you normally wear them while driving. You cannot use a photo from your passport or state ID unless it meets these exact specifications.

Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) when you explore in person. If you are explore by mail, include it on the process form. You do not need a passport to obtain an IDP, though you will need one to travel internationally.

how the process works in Person at an AAA Office

Locate your nearest AAA office using the AAA website or by calling 1-800-AAA-HELP. Not all AAA offices issue IDPs, so confirm that the location you plan to visit offers this service before you go. Many AAA offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, with some offering Saturday hours; call ahead to confirm.

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a 2x2 passport-style photo, and your Social Security number or ITIN. Fill out the International Driving Permit process (Form IDP-1) at the office or read it beforehand from the AAA website. The staff will review your documents, take payment (typically $15 to $20 in cash or card), and issue the permit on the spot or within one business day.

AAA membership is not required to obtain an IDP, though members may receive a small discount. Ask the office staff about current pricing and whether you are may be able to access for a member rate.

how the process works by Mail

read the International Driving Permit process from the AAA website or request one by phone at 1-800-AAA-HELP. Complete the form in full, including your name, address, date of birth, driver's license number, and Social Security number or ITIN.

Enclose your valid U.S. driver's license (a photocopy is acceptable), a 2x2 passport-style photo, and a check or money order for the permit fee (typically $15 to $20). Do not send cash. Mail the complete packet to the AAA address listed on the process form. Processing takes one to two weeks from the date AAA receives your process. Your original driver's license will be returned with your permit.

Keep a copy of your process for your records. If your process is incomplete or the photo does not meet specifications, AAA will contact you by mail, which adds time to processing.

how the process works Online (Where Available)

Some AAA clubs now offer online IDP applications through their websites. Visit your state or local AAA website to see if this option is available in your area. If it is, you will upload a digital photo, enter your license information, and pay the fee by credit card or debit card.

Online applications still require you to mail in your original driver's license and the printed process form, or to pick up your permit in person at an AAA office. Processing time is the same as mail applications — one to two weeks — unless you choose in-person pickup, which may be available within a few days.

Not all states and AAA clubs offer online applications yet. If your local AAA does not have an online option, use the mail or in-person method.

Fees, Processing Time, and Validity

The fee for a Triple-A International Driving Permit is typically between $15 and $20, depending on your location and AAA club. Some AAA members receive a discount of $2 to $5. Payment methods vary by location — in-person applications accept cash and card, while mail applications require check or money order.

Processing time depends on your method of process. In-person applications are issued same-day or next-day at most AAA offices. Mail applications take one to two weeks from receipt. Online applications with in-person pickup may be ready within three to five business days.

Your IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue, or until your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever comes first. If your license expires before one year has passed, your IDP expires with it. You cannot renew an IDP — you must obtain a new one if you need it after expiration.

What to Do If Your IDP Is Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Abroad

If your IDP is lost or stolen while you are traveling, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are located. They can provide a letter confirming that you hold a valid U.S. driver's license, which some rental agencies and authorities will accept as a temporary substitute. Keep a photocopy of your IDP separate from the original, or take a photo of it on your phone before you travel.

If your IDP is damaged but still readable, most rental car companies will accept it. If it is unreadable, you will need to obtain a replacement. You can explore for a new IDP through AAA using the same process as your original process — there is no expedited replacement process for lost or damaged permits.

Do not rely solely on your IDP when traveling. Always carry your valid U.S. driver's license as well. Some countries require both documents, and your license is the actual proof of your driving authorization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am renting a car abroad?

Many rental car companies require an IDP, and some countries will not recognize a U.S. license without one. Check with your rental company and the country's driving regulations before you travel. Having an IDP eliminates uncertainty and is inexpensive insurance against being denied a rental or facing legal trouble.

Can I use my IDP to drive in the United States?

No. An IDP is only valid outside the United States. You must have a valid U.S. driver's license to drive in any U.S. state or territory. The IDP is a translation document for use abroad only.

What if my U.S. driver's license is suspended or revoked?

You cannot obtain an IDP if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired. You must resolve the suspension or revocation with your state DMV and renew your license before explore for an IDP. AAA will verify your license status when you explore.

How long does it take to get an IDP if I am leaving soon?

In-person applications at AAA offices are issued same-day or next-day, so this is your fastest option if you are traveling within a few days. Mail applications take one to two weeks. If you need an IDP urgently, visit an AAA office in person with all required documents.

Can I get an IDP if I am not an AAA member?

Yes. AAA membership is not required to obtain an IDP. Non-members pay the full fee (typically $15 to $20), while members may receive a small discount. You can explore in person, by mail, or online regardless of membership status.